When Lewis Colley first arrived at Canterbury Christ Church University to study Performing Arts back in 2013, he had no idea that his creative journey would one day lead him to front a band making waves in the UK music scene. Now, as lead vocalist and guitarist of Margate based Squangey Bobbins, he’s channeling that same creativity and determination he developed at CCCU into a mission to break into the charts — without a record label or management behind him.

Finding His Voice

Lewis’s musical journey began after his first band disbanded in 2014. Unwilling to give up on his passion for creating music, he started a solo project from home — even before learning to play an instrument.

“I set out to record a solo album at home; at the time I couldn’t play an instrument,” Lewis recalls. “I learned ukulele while working as a teaching assistant in music lessons, and then moved onto guitar. The solo project quickly moved into a full band scenario and has gone from strength to strength ever since.”

The Rise of Squangey Bobbins

Today, Squangey Bobbins are set to embark on their most ambitious project yet — their album Margate Crows. The band, who describe themselves as carrying the raw energy of The Jam, the wit of Arctic Monkeys, and the chaos of The Libertines, have built a loyal following through their perseverance, creativity, and determination.

Their latest record showcases an impressive line-up of collaborators, including Billy Lunn (The Subways), Sean Hutchinson (Bleachers, Taylor Swift, Bruce Springsteen), Peredur Ap Gwynedd (Pendulum), and more. The album was mastered by industry legends Nick Brine (Oasis, The Stone Roses, Coldplay) and Alex Wharton (Abbey Road Studios), with cover art by Roger Stanger Photography, capturing the beauty and grit of Kent (pictured left).

And while Squangey Bobbins continue to grow, they’ve stayed true to their roots — based in Thanet, with the band’s bassist also a CCCU alumnus who recently completed a master’s in Social Work.

Staying Independent

Despite the high-profile collaborators, Lewis and the band remain proudly independent. With no label or management, they’re taking on the challenge of reaching the UK album charts purely through fan support.

“All of our energy is focused on trying to be the first ever Margate band in the UK album chart,” says Lewis. “Short-term goals keep us grounded.”

The limited-edition release of Margate Crows — available as a hand-signed, numbered 12-CD bundle — reflects their dedication to doing things their own way, on their own terms.

Lessons from CCCU

Lewis credits his time at Canterbury Christ Church University as instrumental in shaping his creative path.

“I had some absolutely incredible times studying Performing Arts,” he says. “The course really fostered my creativity, and even though I’ve moved from theatre to music, they’re still linked. Some of the business side of things I learnt at CCCU have also now become hugely helpful.”

His dissertation — exploring the connections between hip hop and theatre — even led to a memorable moment when he gave a copy to KRS-ONE, one of his biggest influences.

Words of Wisdom

For students and aspiring artists looking to follow a similar path, Lewis has simple but powerful advice:

“Never give up — just keep going. Don’t focus solely on ‘making it’; enjoy the ups and downs of the journey. Play every gig you can, even the tough ones teach you something. Play acoustic, full band, play in places you don’t think fit your sound. Just play any opportunities you can.”

Looking Ahead

From performing at iconic venues such as Dreamland, Tunbridge Wells Forum, and Dover Booking Hall, to supporting Toploader, Tom Hingley (Inspiral Carpets), and Pet Needs, Squangey Bobbins are already proving that dedication pays off.

As they aim to become the first Margate band to chart in the UK, Lewis’s story is a shining example of how passion, persistence, and community spirit — combined with the skills and creativity nurtured at CCCU — can take you from the classroom to the charts. Listen and pre-order Margate Crows.