Tricky Nixon

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Tricky Nixon was a four‑piece indie rock/pop band from Manchester that played from 2003 to 2006. The members were Rhydian Dafydd (vocals/guitar), Ritzy Bryan (vocals/guitar), Joe Fairclough (bass) and Peter Gray (drums). Their sound mixed punchy guitars with catchy harmonies, and they’ve been described as a mix of The Breeders and Pixies. They also released a Welsh-language song, "Paid A Gofyn" (Don’t Ask), which was named one of the top Welsh tracks of the decade by Hefin Thomas on BBC Radio Cymru in 2009.

The band began in summer 2003 as Super 8’s with Rhydian, Joe and Peter, and they added Ritzy as a second guitarist. After recording a three‑song demo, they renamed themselves Tricky Nixon at the In the City festival in Manchester. In 2004 they released a three‑track EP with "Takin The Bait," "Jelly" and "You’re So Money," which helped them tour nationally with Ariel X and support Kaiser Chiefs. They also recorded a cover of The Smiths' "Panic" for the Ten From Ten compilation.

In November 2004 they toured with Mclusky. Their final release was the six‑song Kick EP, released through Fuzzbox on 21 November 2005. In January 2006, drummer Peter Gray left. The remaining members formed the band Sidecar Kisses, and later Ritzy Bryan and Rhydian Dafydd went on to form The Joy Formidable. Peter Gray went on to join The VCs and later Letters To Fiesta.