A debut album, that's a tribute to grief after the loss of a member of band, has smashed into a number of top slots in the UK music charts.
Nuns of the Tundra has exploded on to the UK music scene with its modern alternative rock racking up more than 2 million Spotify streams and selling out on vinyl.
Seven placements across the UK's official charts include three in rock and metal, two in independent album breakers, seven in independent albums, 13 in physical albums, 14 in official album sales, 17 in Scottish albums and 23 in vinyl albums.
The record, released through independent label Saviour Records, was written in memory of the band’s late bassist Tom Benson who passed away in his sleep when he was just 28-years-old.
Frontman Troy Tittley, 34, who lives and works in Cheltenham, said: 'This album is about grief and the people who help carry you through to the other side.
'We made it for Tom and to see fans take it to the charts on their own backs means everything. This one’s for him.'
A 500-copy vinyl pre-order campaign sold out before release day and fans are continuing to fuel its rise across charts nationwide.
Troy, who works at YMCA Cheltenham, added: 'Tom had no prior known health conditions so it was a huge shock to lose him.
'It took a long time to feel right after that and the album became an outlet.
'This album is more than record sales, it’s dedicated to our brother Tom and to the community that held us up while we made it.
'For a band with no insider industry connections, no gimmicks and zero playlist tailwinds, this feels nothing short of miraculous.
'We’re standing beside acts like Oasis, Fontaines DC and Queens of the Stone
Age and that’s all thanks to having amazing, supportive fans.'
The band has more than 100,000 followers on social media.
Troy said: 'We are proving that DIY rock can still break through on a national scale, even without the weight of a major label.'
The album release gig at The Frog and Fiddle in Cheltenham at the end of August sold out but fans can catch performances in London and Canterbury later this month.
