GIHE: Tracks Of 2022

With another hard-going year behind us, we’ve continued to seek comfort in new music released by our favourite hard-working and talented artists. There’s been an immense amount of incredible new music released, so we want to shed some light on some of the tunes that got us through the hard times, accompanied the good times, and generally saw us through 2022.

To start our annual end of year round-ups, we’re sharing our ‘Tracks Of 2022’ ahead of features on our favourite albums tomorrow, with ‘highlights’ and ‘Ones To Watch 2023’ next week… Have a read about some of the tunes we’ve been loving the most, and make sure you hit play on the accompanying playlist to hear just how fantastic they all are!

 

Petrol Girls – ‘Baby, I Had An Abortion’
Taken from this year’s epic album, Baby, Petrol Girls’ absolutely colossal anthem ‘Baby, I Had An Abortion’ has probably been my most listen-to track of the year. A raging cacophony fuelled by a riotous catharsis urging us to fight against the confines of this damaging patriarchal society and heinous pro-life laws, it also recognises that abortions – whilst often traumatic – can come with a sense of relief and happiness, and our access to them is something to be celebrated. The album as a whole offers a range of fiercely impassioned anthems; a powerfully affecting and utterly necessary collection (other highlights include ‘Fight For Our Lives’, featuring GIHE fave Janey Starling).
(Mari Lane – Co-Founder)

Problem Patterns – ‘Y.A.W’
A powerful, necessary anthem for women and girls who have spoken out against violent misogyny, it was an honour to premiere the video for this track from Belfast punks Problem Patterns on Get In Her Ears this year. The track is a visceral rumination on the universal rage and despair that permeates our consciousness in the wake of public violence towards women, in particular, the misogynist killings of Sarah Everard and Aisling Murphy. An acronym for ‘Yes All Women’ – antagonising the social media excuse ‘Not All Men’ – on ‘Y.A.W’ the band unleash a cathartic cacophony of noise as they demand “Who do we call for help / When the help seems like a threat to me?”. I cried the first time I heard the track, and it still hits a nerve now.
(Kate Crudgington – Co-Founder)

LibraLibra – ‘Frenemies’
Following the release of their second EP, Modern Millenial, GIHE faves LibraLibra this year treated us to their utterly unique fusion of pop, electro and punk with ‘Frenemies’. Lulling us into a false sense of security with a sweeping orchestral intro, it builds with a haunting majesty into an epic frenzied cacophony. As it rages with a colossal magnificence, front woman Beth’s vocals simmer with a sultry allure before exploding into a riotous anthem seething with dark undertones. LibraLibra are heading out on a UK headline tour in March 2023 (you do not want to miss them live!) – details here. (ML)

CLT DRP – ‘Aftermath’
This track from Brighton trio CLT DRP is a compelling exploration of the way we process generational trauma following sexual assault. It’s a heavy, but important listen that sees vocalist Annie pushing through uncomfortable truths, finding new ways to relate to, and process these difficult emotions. It’s a powerful anthem, and one that will resonate with many GIHE followers. (KC)

Mannequin Death Squad – ‘Super Mental Psycho’
The title track of their immense new album, this single from Aussie duo Elly and Dan – aka Mannequin Death Squad – blasts into the ears with a raw, frenzied energy, creating a perfectly ferocious blast of infectious grunge-tinged rock showcasing a unique colossal power. We were lucky enough to host the London leg of Mannequin Death Squad’s UK tour this summer at The Cavendish Arms, and I was completely blown away by their fiercely captivating energy. (ML)

After London – ‘Hurricane’
‘Hurricane’ is the latest single from alt-rock five-piece After London. It opens with a dark and groovy bassline and unsettling guitar riff, mirroring lyrics about anxiety and the dark underpinnings of technology. The lyrics are delivered in a sharp spoken word style relaying the track’s clever wordsmithing and strong imagery before breaking into a catchy melodic chorus. The band say it’s perfect for a late-night drive and I won’t hesitate to say I agree. (Ella Patenall – Contributor)

ARXX – ‘The Last Time’
I know we’ve been banging on about them for years now, but total faves Hanni and Clara – aka ARXX – really do just keep going from strength to strength. They’ve had a pretty wonderful year – with airplay on BBC Radio 1 and BBC 6 Music as well as tours with the likes of The Big Moon and Pillow Queens – and their success is so well deserved. Taken from their upcoming new album Ride Or Die, ‘The Last Time’ showcases ARXX’s unique ability to combine an immense raucous energy with ridiculously catchy pure pop hooks. Impossible to pigeonhole into one genre, they continue to impress with everything they do, and remain truly one of the most exciting – and completely lovely – bands I’ve ever known. (ML)

M(h)aol – ‘Bored Of Men’
I said on one of our Soho Radio shows earlier this year that this single from Irish post punks M(h)aol should be the new intro song for Love Island, and I stand by it! Vocalist Roisin’s frustration is palpable as she delivers her candid lyrics, underscored by a cacophony of abrasive riffs and thumping beats. The band will be releasing their debut album, Attachment Styles, next year. I can’t wait to hear it in full. (KC)

Collars – ‘Rainbows’
A new favourite of 2022 for sure, Collars totally blew me away supporting Currls at the Shacklewell Arms for us this month. As Kane simultaneously pummelled the drums whilst blasting out whirring hooks on guitar, Dan exuded a captivating charisma as the soaring power of their vocals filled the venue – an utterly unique live experience. And ‘Rainbows’, taken from this year’s debut album Clyde, showcases the duo’s energy-filled, fuzz-strewn indie-punk perfectly. (ML)

Human Interest – ‘Mixing Paint’
Having received wide-spread acclaim for their debut EP, Desire Paths, earlier this year, and wowing crowds at shows supporting legends like Self Esteem and Dave Rowntree, London duo Human Interest have firmly cemented themselves as new favourites of mine over the last few months. Reflecting on the darkest crevices of the mind with a fizzing post-punk energy, ‘Mixing Paint‘ oozes the band’s trademark gritty allure as the sweeping power of Tyler Damara Kelly’s vocals ripple alongside atmospheric bass hooks, building with driving beats into a fiercely immersive anthem. (ML)

Nikki & The Waves – ‘The Phone Song’
Having initially been recommended to listen to Nikki & The Waves by Chester trio Peaness when interviewing them for our Soho Radio show earlier this year, I soon became a mega fan of their quirky energy and uplifting vibrant groove. Interweaving Nikki’s lush, honey-sweet vocals with a unique, funk-fuelled musicality, ‘The Phone Song’ showcases all there is to love about this Manchester collective. And we were lucky enough to host Nikki & The Waves and their joyous cacophonies live at The Victoria this summer. (ML)

Junodef – ‘Diane’s Robot’
Junodef are an art rock trio from Sweden and every song they write is a carefully-crafted gem, including their latest single ‘Diane’s Robot’. The song opens with a stunning melancholic guitar, the tone bringing to mind Jeff Buckley’s Hallelujah. The soft but defiant vocal enters giving the song a dark folky flavour before the eerie robotic voice comes in with a thick synth bass, giving the folkiness a more electronic punch. With lyrics about being young and overwhelmed, this is a gripping and haunting song that stays with you.
(EP) 

Miss Grit – ‘Like You’
New York-based, Korean-American musician Margaret Sohn aka Miss Grit has always used their art in order to explore, connect with, and understand their own identity further. Inspired by android life on this single ‘Like You’, they blend clear vocals, electric guitar riffs and mesmeric beats to reflect the conflicting nature of our inner voices, weighing up which ones to trust, and which ones to ignore. (KC)

Maria Uzor – ‘Over This’
Having just released her new EP Songs For Luminous Living, Maria Uzor has been continuing to captivate us throughout 2022 with her engaging, resplendent electro-pop offerings and with a spellbinding live performance for us at The Shacklewell Arms this Summer. Taken from the new EP, ‘Over This’ ripples with woozy, seductive beats before building to a fierce, cathartic cacophony pulsating with a gritty energy. Reflecting on a time of reclaiming your identity and being honest with your emotions, it’ll grab your ears with its ferocious allure and keep you firmly in its hold with its deep empowering drive. Songs For Luminous Living, the new EP from Maria Uzor, is out now. (ML)

Noga Erez – ‘Nails’
Flowing with her trademark polished production, vocal swagger and defiant lyrics, I love this track by pop renegade & GIHE favourite Noga Erez. “‘Nails’ is a song about jealousy, and how being jealous of people, in this particular case another woman, makes you idealize that person in a very weird and dark way,” Erez explains about the track. The Tel Aviv-based artist and her music & life partner Ori Rousso explore these emotions through their infectious beats and Erez’s visceral emceeing, playfully loosening the grip of the jealous thoughts that we’re all prone to from time to time. I can’t wait to hear more new music from her in 2023. (KC)

AGAAMA – ‘Blackbox Oracle’
This intoxicating blend of enigmatic vocals, heady electronics and jazz-inspired instrumentation from Birmingham-based artist AGAAMA explores our complex relationship with Artificial Intelligence. Taken from her EP, Wandering Worlds, the track questions whether we can live in harmony with the machines we have created. “My body craves control” she confesses, resisting the urge to become “addicted to your code”, trapped in a push-and-pull scenario that has no concrete solution. I love it. (KC)

O Hell – ‘I Watch The Women’
I’m a big fan of this twitchy electronic soundscape from Brighton-based artist Lucy Sheehan aka O Hell. After years spent touring and recording music in alternative band PROJECTOR, Sheehan has ventured into fresh sonic territory under their new moniker, influenced by a love of eclectic, brooding soundscapes and a desire for creative independence. Sheehan explores this on ‘I Watch The Women’, deconstructing their notion of femininity and reassessing the personal toll this process can take. (KC)

Hannah Schneider – ‘It’s The Season’
Having been big fans of Danish artist Hannah Schneider (also of duo AyOwA) for some time now, we were super excited to welcome the release of her latest album (her first solo release in seven years), Ocean Letters this year. A collection of immersive, celestial soundscapes, each track perfectly showcases Schneider’s ability to bathe your ears in a euphoric, soothing grace as her rich, crystalline vocals ripple with a dreamy ethereal haze. Schneider also made a beautiful guest playlist for us that I’ve pretty much had on repeat for months, listen here. (ML)

all cats are beautiful – ‘heartbeats’
Having fallen completely in love with London duo Elena and Kyle – aka all cats are beautiful (ACAB) – upon listening to last year’s album the things we made, with this love only growing further when they delivered their ‘sad dance tunes’ for us live at The Shacklewell Arms in February, I was super happy when they shared this dreamy rendition of The Knife’s classic. Maintaining all the infectious electro scuzz of the original, whilst adding the duo’s own unique resplendent grace and spellbinding allure, it builds with a whirring splendour to a vibrant, danceable anthem shimmering with a swirling, soothing charm. (ML)

Sea Change – ‘Night Eyes’
Norwegian artist & producer Sea Change’s sounds ebb and flow with a tranquil, yet deeply primal desire to move through an intensity of feeling that sometimes escapes verbal or written articulation. Her electronica ripples with emotion, without every feeling weighty or over-thought. On ‘Night Eyes’, which is taken from her album, Mutual Dreaming, she urges her listeners to let go, and surrender to her heady beats. (KC)

NAMELESS TWIN – ‘My Eyes Went Black’
I was obsessed with this single from industrial/electronic duo Alicia Rei Kim and Ryan Osterman aka NAMELESS TWIN this year. It’s shadowy, it’s heavy, but also delicate in places too – all the things I want in a track! Osterman is also in a band called Holy Fawn, who I saw perform live in August at Venue 229, and they were f.a.n.t.a.s.t.i.c. (KC)

Tomberlin – ‘happy accident’
This track by American musician Tomberlin is a tender reflection on the disconcerting thoughts that come with being in an undefined relationship. Taken from her beautiful second album, i don’t know who needs to hear this…,‘happy accident’ is an urgent, sincere piece of songwriting, underscored by tender vocals and candid, relatable lyrics. Interviewing Tomberlin about her music, and hearing her perform this track live in St Matthias Church in Stoke Newington earlier this year was sublime. (KC)

Miya Folick – ‘Nothing To See’
Emotional, raw and beautifully resilient, Miya Folick’s ‘Nothing To See’ is a tender ode to rediscovering yourself in the aftermath of a painful breakup. Through her clear vocals, candid lyrics and considered instrumentation, Folick accepts that love makes fools of us all, and gracefully reclaims the time she spent changing herself to suit the needs of an unappreciative lover. (KC)

Blonde Maze – ‘Forever Sun’ 
As any long-term followers will know, New York artist Blonde Maze has been one of my most-listened to artists over the last few years, and 2022 was no exception. Following 2021’s utterly euphoric debut album Something Familar, this year she released a small collection of tracks, each as dreamy as the last. I cannot get enough of the shimmering, heartfelt splendour that she’s consistently able to create; a comforting embrace in audio form. Blonde Maze just never fails to soothe and uplift with her beautiful creations, and I’m forever grateful to be able to immerse myself in her truly blissful soundscapes. (ML)

HNNY – ‘Being In Love’
Another of my most listened-to artists since coming across them during lockdown in 2020 and instantly finding complete comfort in their sparkling, electronic soundscapes, HNNY released a couple of new singles this year – much to my delight. ‘Being In Love’ showcases their ability to bathe the senses in their swirling, effervescent grace, providing a much-needed sonic tonic; a soothing catharsis for the stresses that 2022 has brought. I could literally listen to HNNY on a loop forever and not get bored. (ML)

Massive thanks to all the artists and bands creating wonderful tunes this year! Keep an eye out for our Albums & EPs Of The Year, 2022 Highlights and Ones To Watch for 2023.

Listen to our Tracks Of 2022 playlist now!

 

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Track Of The Day: Berries – ‘Sprial’

2022 has been a big year for BERRIES. With their fiery yet honest take on grunge, alt, and rock ‘n roll, the London-based trio have staked their claim in the country’s live scene, as well as receiving international acclaim supporting bands such as The Subways. Much to the pleasure of seasoned fans of distortion, as well as newly of-age gig rats still enthralled to legally order a pint.

Such widespread appreciation is a direct result of the youthful yet mature energy BERRIES brings to their music. A type of energy that comes fully to form through their lauded debut album How We Function. Now, in the midst of an exciting series of tour dates that will continue well into 2023, BERRIES have shared a new single from the LP, ‘Spiral‘.

Coming in as hot as it does intriguing with an ensnaring syncopated riff, ‘Spiral’ bounces between various band-driven calls and responses. Switching back and forth between 6/8 and 4/4 with jazz-era precision, the song feels frenetic but also contained for when the bridge comes in and provides the reminder that everyone’s gone through a spiral of their own. Of the track, vocalist Holly explains:

“‘Spiral’ is about how easily we share insignificant details about ourselves but struggle to open up about serious matters through fear of seeming weak or vulnerable. And how what we do share with people is often for the satisfaction and approval of others and not for ourselves.”

Another uplifting anthem oozing all the trademark scuzzy allure and whirring charm that we’ve come to know and love from BERRIES.

https://open.spotify.com/track/5uQQnQOBB9iffWPaZSpKxh?si=97e63857e8154112

How We Function, the debut album from BERRIES, is out now via Xtra Mile Recordings.

Harry Levin
@harrywlevin

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PLAYLIST: November 2022

The Get In Her Ears team have put together another eclectic mix of indie tunes, guitar anthems and electronic sounds for your listening pleasure. Take some time to scroll through our track choices below, and make sure you press play on the Spotify playlist at the end of this post.

Follow GIHE on Spotify to hear all of our previous playlists too.

 

Big Joanie – ‘Sainted’
HUGE congratulations to GIHE faves Big Joanie on their nomination for Best Alternative Music Act at this year’s MOBO Awards! This groundbreaking new category also features our faves Nova Twins, who wrote an open letter to the MOBO Awards back in 2020, asking the panel to include an alternative category. This is a massive and hard won achievement, respect and solidarity to all those who engineered this much needed change! To celebrate, we’ll be playing this spooky Big Joanie tune, lifted from their superb new album Back Home, on repeat. (Kate Crudgington)

Currls – ‘Nerve’
Taken from their brand new debut EP Hello My Name Is, Currls’ latest single ‘Nerve’ is a perfect slice of gritty, scuzz-filled garage-rock. Propelled by the band’s trademark empowering energy and soulful allure, it leaves you longing to catch them live and dance along in joyous unity with fellow fans. And it just so happens that this is something you can do next Thursday 1st December at Shacklewell Arms! We’re hosting Currls’ London EP launch, with support from Collars and Hypsoline – tickets on Dice now. (Mari Lane)

Bad Sidekick – ‘I Ain’t Sick’
You may have noticed that in December we’re hosting not one, but two, gigs! The second sees brooding Bristol band Bad Sidekick headlining for us on 9th December. They’ve recently released an epic debut album Daily Lottery, but I couldn’t resist including this track from their 2018 EP – I just love its raging energy, frenzied, reverb strewn riffs and Cooper’s fiercely powerful vocals. Bad Sidekick will be headlining the Shacklewell Arms on 9th December with support from Alien Chicks and Cosmic Ninja – tickets on Dice now. (ML)

The Pearl Harts – ‘More’
Loving this new single from London-based duo The Pearl Harts! It sounded great list night at their sold out gig at Blondies too. The track is lifted from their upcoming album, Love, Chaos, which is set for release in early 2023. (KC)

Django Jones and The Mystery Men – ‘Bad For You’
Described as “music written for the restless”, this is the debut single from Sheffield post punk trio Django Jones and The Mystery Men. Loving the brooding intensity of this one. (KC)

Grandmas House – ‘How Does It Feel’
Unsurprisingly, we love this new tune from GIHE faves Grandmas House. It’s a bi-lingual blast of angst, pairing frontperson Yasmin Berndt’s French vocals with drummer Poppy Dodgson’s English vocals as “a call and response between two people about the feelings of confusion you go through when breaking up.” (KC)

Panic Shack – ‘Meal Deal’
This recent single from Cardiff’s Panic Shack reflects on the realities of the cost of living crisis as working people are increasingly undervalued and underpaid, whilst musically its swirling punk spirit and tongue-in-cheek lyrics uplifts and energises. A fun-filled, yet meaningful, indie-pop banger. Baby Shack, the latest EP from Panic Shack, is out now. (ML)

Human Interest – ‘Mixing Paint’
The latest single from London duo Human Interest reflects on the darkest crevices of the mind with a fizzing post-punk energy. Oozing the band’s trademark gritty allure and the sweeping power of Tyler Damara Kelly’s vocals, ‘Mixing Paint’ cements Human Interest as my favourite new band right now without a doubt. (ML)

Ideal Host – ‘The Conflict’
A sardonic cacophony that explores the antagonistic nature of the everyday routine, I love this single from Ideal Host. Led by Heather Perkins and Sean Hughes, both former members of the band Slowcoaches, the pair have returned to work together and evolve their sound under this new moniker. The band are planning to release their debut album in early 2023 and will be playing a string of live dates too. (KC)

M(h)aol – ‘Asking For It’
We’ve been following Irish post-punks M(h)aol (pronounced “male”) for a while now, and this track has always been a favourite of mine. Fueled by a palpable rage against rape culture, the band have re-released this track alongside the news of their debt album, Attachment Styles, which is due on 3rd February via TULLE Collective. Watch the poignant accompanying video directed by bassist Zoë with input from vocalist Róisín here. (KC)

New Pagans – ‘Karin Was Not A Rebel’
Following on from their stunning debut album, The Seed The Vessel The Roots and All, Belfast’s New Pagans have announced that they’ll be releasing their second LP, Making Circles of our Own, on February 17th via Big Scary Monsters. ‘Karin Was Not A Rebel’ is the first taste of what’s to come, celebrating the overlooked artist and designer Karin Bergöö Larsson, one of the foundational modern interior designers. I can’t wait to hear the band’s new record early next year! (KC)

The Empty Page – ‘Dry Ice’
Reflecting on pre-lockdown nightlife, this new single from Manchester’s The Empty Page soars with a dark energy and gritty allure, evoking feelings of nostalgia for that woozy joy of nights soaked in a smokey, sweaty haze. And it’s impossible not get utterly immersed in Kel’s sweeping vocals as they swoon with a haunting power alongside a riotous grunge-tinged musicality. (ML)

ARXX – ‘The Last Time’
The latest single from absolute long-term faves ARXX, ‘The Last Time’ reflects on feelings of heartbreak whilst referencing queer TV show Euphoria. An uplifting yet emotion strewn fizzing pop anthem, it oozes a shimmering synth-soaked musicality and catchy driving energy whilst maintaining the duo’s gritty, colossal power. It was absolutely wonderful to catch ARXX in all their empowering, endearing charm at The Social this Wednesday! ARXX’s long awaited debut album Ride Or Die is set for release very soon – pre-order here. (ML)

Collars – ‘Rainbows’
Providing main support at the Currls EP launch at Shacklewell Arms next Thursday, Collars are fast becoming a new favourite with their energy filled, fuzz-strewn catchy indie-punk offerings. Delivering rich impassioned vocals alongside jangling hooks and driving beats, I cannot wait to see this duo live! (ML)

Ailbhe Reddy – ‘Shitshow’
We’re big fans of Irish songwriter Ailbhe Reddy here at GIHE, so we’re thrilled to hear that her new album, Endless Affair, is due early next year on 17th March. “’Shitshow’ came from a lyric I played with for a few months which was ‘my god, look at the state of me, this is so embarrassing'” Ailbhe explains about this latest single. “It’s about looking back on a night out with regret while also addressing and apologising to an ex-partner about my antics. The first verse is to myself and the second verse is to someone else. It’s kind of a tongue in cheek examination of a bad hangover.” Hard relate to that one. Check out the excellent accompanying video for ‘Shitshow’ here. (KC)

Kierst – ‘How To Be’
This poetic rumination on a past relationship features on Brooklyn-based songwriter Kierst’s debut EP, Thud. Inspired by her memories of moving between people and places, the record is a heartfelt reflection on “how bizarre a thing a relationship really is.” (KC)

Dayydream – ‘Wasn’t’
A tender reflection on the transient nature of emotions and our attachments to other people, this track is lifted from Glasgow-based songwriter Chloe Trappes aka Dayydream’s debut EP, Bittersweet. Filled with delicate guitar strokes, dreamy vocals and affecting lyrics, Trappes ruminates on distance and desire across the record and the way these things can shift our perspective towards ourselves, and to others over time. I really recommend giving it a listen. (KC)

Queen Colobus – ‘5/9’
South London based indie-jazz collective Queen Colobus’ latest single is taken from their recent EP Think Fast, and I just can’t get enough of its blissful hooks, luscious swooning vocals and glistening laid-back beats. A wonderfully woozy euphoric soundscape. (ML)

Σtella – ‘Nomad’
Athenian Σtella has released ‘Nomad’ taken from her album Up and Away, which was released earlier this year in June. I’ve only just come across her now for the first time, but her music is beautiful, described as “vintage-flecked pop to the pangs and raptures of love.” This track is simply beautiful, and as with many of the tracks on the album, uses traditional Greek instruments (bouzouki and kanun). Be prepared to be swept away to the Greek seas. (Tash Walker)

Prima Queen – ‘Butter Knife’
Produced by The Big Moon, this bittersweet offering from London-based duo Prima Queen is a reflection on the cruel nature of Alzheimer’s disease. Blending spoken-word verses and softly sung choruses with gentle guitars and percussion, the track is poignant and personal lament to slowly losing a loved one. (KC)

Blonde Maze – ‘When You Move’
Another utterly euphoric creation from my most played artist over the last few years, ‘When You Move’ comes from a collection of equally dreamy tracks that the New York based artist has released recently. Oozing an immersive, shimmering splendour, it offers a comforting embrace in audio form, as rippling waves of electro hooks sparkle with an exquisite majesty alongside heartfelt vocals. Blonde Maze never fails to soothe and uplift with her blissful creations. (ML)

Maria BC – ‘ROF’ (Rachika Nayar remix)
Ohio-born songwriter Maria BC has shared a remix EP of their beautiful debut album Hyaline, and it’s just as dreamy and poetic as their original record. Featuring No Home, Rachika Nayar, Nina Keith, Lucy Liyou, and Ragana, the altruistic ambient-folk sounds are a perfect distraction from life’s more stressful moments. (KC)

paun – ‘Earth Timeline’
Berlin-based paun released this eclectic ambient track earlier this year in addition to being featured in the first Éclat Various Artists compilation. It’s been in my ears for most of this month, so definitely check out the rest of paun’s work on bandcamp if you’re into this. (KC)

Babyfather, Tirzah – ‘1471’
‘1471’ is the second collab between Dean Blunt under his alias Babyfather and Tirzah, the first being her track ‘Recipe’ off of her album, Colourgrade. Always thirsty for more Tirzah content me! (TW)

HOLDA SEK – ‘At Twenty’
This is the debut single from the London based HOLDA SEK, made with producer Caezar. I can’t stop listening to this song, very catchy beats which drill down through your ears into your brain. (TW)

Tempers – ‘Unfamiliar’
New York City duo Tempers specialise in a sleek strain of low-lit poetic synth pop, I got to see them in London at studio 9240 and they were fantastic. This is their lead single from their album New Meaning, which was released earlier this year via Dais Records. (TW)

Twin Rains – ‘Nothing in my Purse’ (Secret Sign Remix)
Inspired by the concept of death and possession, I’m a big fan of this shadowy remix of Toronto-based duo Twin Rains track ‘Nothing In My Purse’. Re-worked by Secret Sign’s Phil Baljeu, a Toronto video artist & longtime friend and collaborator of Twin Rains, the track is an industrial-shoegaze tinted gem. (KC)

DOUBLE HELIX – ‘Rat Rave’
I first heard this track at the hand of Kate, so I’m going to dedicate this one to you mate. Double Helix were another of the bands that I saw at Studio 9294, alongside the likes of Tempers and Curses. A pretty epic live performance, some serious shoulder shuffling from me. (TW)

LibraLibra – ‘Frenemies’
The new single from total faves LibraLibra, ‘Frenemies’ reflects on the comfort we may find in fake or damaging ‘friendships’. Lulling us into a false sense of security with a sweeping orchestral intro, it builds with a colossal magnificence as front woman Beth’s vocals simmer with a sultry allure, before exploding into a riotous anthem seething with dark undertones. And LibraLibra were absolutely spectacular, as always, supporting other faves ARXX at The Social this Wednesday. (ML)

 

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PLAYLIST: October 2022

The Get In Her Ears team have put together another eclectic mix of guitar anthems, electronic sounds & alternative tunes for your listening pleasure this month. Take some time to scroll through our track choices below and make sure you hit play on the Spotify playlist at the end of this post.

Follow GIHE on Spotify to hear all of our previous playlists too.

 

CLT DRP – ‘Aftermath’
The latest single from Brighton trio CLT DRP, ‘Aftermath’ is a compelling exploration of the way we process generational trauma following sexual assault, and the internalised guilt and grief that blurs our reactions in its aftermath. It’s a heavy but important listen, that sees vocalist Annie pushing through uncomfortable truths, finding new ways to relate to and process this generational trauma. It’s a powerful listen, and one that will resonate with many GIHE followers. The band have released the single on a 7” vinyl, with the B-side featuring a cover of the track by friends of the band The Big Moon. Order your copy here. (Kate Crudgington)

Miss Grit – ‘Like You’
Released to coincide with the news that they’ve signed to Mute Records, ‘Like You’ is the latest single from Korean-American, non-binary musician Margaret Sohn aka Miss Grit. The track is a magnetic musing, inspired by the film Ex Machina, exploring the conflicting nature of our inner voices. Miss Grit will be playing shows across Europe in October, and they will be playing in London at Amazing Grace on 1st November. (KC)

O Hell – ‘I Watch The Women’
The follow up to their previous releases ‘Down’ and ‘Untangle’, this new track from Brighton-based Lucy Sheehan aka O Hell is underscored by a quiet agitation, exploring the personal confines of imposed femininity. I’ve been repeatedly listening to it for the last month, consistently impressed by Sheehan’s steady vocal and their twitchy, mesmeric sounds. (KC)

Maria Uzor – ‘Solitaire’
We’re super excited to hear that Norwich based vocalist and producer Maria Uzor (also half of faves Sink Ya Teeth) will be releasing her upcoming new EP in December. And now, ahead of the EP release, she has shared this captivating new single ‘Solitaire’. Flowing with a luscious, swirling groove and gnarly beats, it builds with a shimmering, pulsating majesty to a gritty slice of euphoric electro-pop. Oozing her distinctive, spellbinding sweeping vocals, it’s a gloriously uplifting synth-soaked soundscape. (Mari Lane)

AGAAMA – ‘Blackbox Oracle’
The latest single from Birmingham-based artist, composer, vocalist & producer AGAAMA, ‘Blackbox Oracle’ is an intoxicating blend of enigmatic vocals, heady electronic beats and jazz-inspired instrumentation. Taken from her recent EP Wandering Worlds, the track explores our complex relationship with Artificial Intelligence, questioning whether we can live in harmony with the machines we have created. (KC)

Helen Ganya – ‘young girls never die’
Taken from her upcoming album polish the machine, which is set for release on 18th November via Bella Union, this single from Brighton-based artist Helen Ganya is super catchy. Inspired by her reaction to a graph that showed how a male celebrity continued to age, but his girlfriends stayed the same age, Ganya has taken this unsettling concept and dismantled it over glitchy beats, crystalline vocals and altruistic electronics. (KC)

Maury Blu, Peaches – ‘Vashti Part One’
Maury Blu sort of says it all on her Instagram profile: “Recording artist, Prophetess of God & Bad Bitch in General,” LOVE IT! Then throw some Peaches into the mix…absolute gold. (Tash Walker)

Big Joanie – ‘Confident Man’
I’ve said this before, but is it even a GIHE playlist if we don’t include a Big Joanie track? The black feminist punk trio have shared this buzzy new offering ahead of the release of their second album, Back Home, on 4th November, which vocalist & guitarist Steph says is inspired by an essay in Jia Tolentino’s book Trick Mirror, which is about “scam culture and how everyone’s obsessed with con men and their stories.” Steph, Chardine & Estella kindly joined us for a chat about their new music on our most recent Soho Radio show, which you can listen back to here. (KC)

Zahra Haji Fath Ali Tehrani – ‘Waiting’
Whilst you may have come to know her under the moniker of Despicable Zee, Oxford artist Zahra Haji Fath Ali Tehrani has now decided to use her own name for her innovative solo creations. Taken from her upcoming new EP, latest single ‘Waiting‘ showcases Tehrani’s ability to create sweeping, ethereal soundscapes with a shimmering raw emotion. As unique swirling layers of instrumentation are interwoven with crystalline vocals, it’s a beautifully stirring percussion-driven ballad. (ML)

Amaroun – ‘Brown Skin Beauty’
October is Black History Month in the UK, with the theme this year of ‘sharing journeys’. This amazing song, a favourite of mine for so long now, is all about her experience of being Black and queer, and it is now the soundtrack to a podcast I’ve been working on with the wonderful Marc Thompson. He created an Instagram photo archive called Black and Gay, Back in the Day, which we’ve turned into a podcast of intergenerational conversations between younger and older Black Queer people all about the photos from the archive. Check out more wherever you get your podcasts, and the Instagram account Black and Gay, Back in the Day to see the amazing photos the series centres around. (TW)

Perera Elsewhere – ‘Who I Am’
Perera Elsewhere’s latest single, taken from her recent album Home, released via Friends of Friends. Of the song she says, “We are many people inside one person…our ancestors, present and future and a whole bunch of brainwashing, marketing, conformity, institutionalised religion and an almost branded rebellion against those things.” Perera continues: “The internet is a catalyst and a centrifuge. Thus the ongoing question of ‘Who I Am’ remains: a journey to get to the core of yourself even if your self is a construction in itself. This journey straddles individuality, identity and the simulation of spirituality and authenticity, all ideas/things that the post-materialist societies are obsessed with…” and what a beat on this track too. (TW)

Connie Constance – ‘Mood Hoover’
I cannot get enough of Connie Constance’s voice on her latest single! ‘Mood Hoover’ is such an on point way to describe someone too. (TW)

Coco – ‘Rough Water’
Formed in 2019, Coco is a collaborative project consisting of Maia Friedman (The Dirty Projectors), Dan Molad (Lucius), and Oliver Hill (Pavo Pavo). The first single since the release of their self titled debut album last year, ‘Rough Water’ fizzes with whirring hooks and an anthemic energy as luscious harmonies flow. An instantly catchy offering, propelled by a colourful groove reminiscent of uptempo ‘70s psych-pop hits. (ML)

Teri Gender Bender – ‘The Get Up’
I saw Mexican-born artist Teri Gender Bender live at Moth Club when they were fronting Le Butcherettes a few years ago, and I was dazzled by their natural stage presence. I’m new to their solo work, but it brims with Teri’s eccentricity and warmth, whilst remaining a little obscure – the dream combination. ‘The Get Up’ is taken from Teri’s upcoming EP, SATURN SEX, which is set for release on 21st October via Clouds Hill. (KC)

Ghost Car – ‘Selfish, Spoiled’
The latest single from London-based international band Ghost Car, ‘Selfish, Spoiled’ is a reflection on how hard the music industry can be for people from working class backgrounds. Propelled by a fuzzy allure, it oozes all the quirky charisma and swirling, synth-driven sounds we’ve come to know and love from the band. Juxtaposing the distinctive honey-sweet with a gritty, haunting aura, it’s a glorious slice of whimsical post-punk. Truly Trash, the debut album from Ghost Car, is out 28th October via One Little Independent Records (ML)

Jemma Freeman & The Cosmic Something – ‘Easy Peeler’
Ahead of the release of their second album next month, GIHE fave Jemma Freeman and the Cosmic Something has shared an earth-shattering new single. Propelled by a frantic energy, ‘Easy Peeler’ blasts into the ears with a soaring, raw power. Oozing a frenzied, psychedelic fury as it rages against the horrors of this patriarchal society, it’s a sparkling slice of majestic glam-rock. Miffed, the upcoming album from Jemma Freeman and the Cosmic Something, is out on 25th November via Trapped Animal Records. And make sure you catch them live playing for us at The Victoria on 14th October with support from KIN and Trouble Wanted – tickets here. (ML)

Grandmas House – ‘Body’
Full of candid vocals, cathartic lyrics and boisterous riffs, I love this track from GIHE faves Grandmas House. Speaking about the track, the Bristol trio explain ‘Body’ is “an anthem for anyone that’s ever felt uncomfortable in their own skin,” which I’m sure will resonate with many of our followers & listeners. (KC)

Brutus – ‘Victoria’
A cathartic reflection on teenage angst, growing up, and the solidarity that comes from facing up to these inevitable parts of life together, I love this single from Belgian heavy trio Brutus. Lifted from their upcoming third album Unison Life, which is set for release on 21st October via Hassle Records/Sargent House, I’ve been listening to it on repeat in anticipation of their headline show at The Garage in November. (KC)

A VOID – ‘Newspapers’
Two parts French, one part English, London-based A Void have recently released their new album, Dissociation. Taken from the album, latest single ‘Newspapers’ builds with the gritty scuzz of jangly guitars alongside rich, soulful vocals, as thrashing beats race with a fierce energy reminiscent of early Garbage. (ML)

Bikini Kill – ‘Double Dare Ya’
The Get In Her Ears website turns FIVE this month! I thought I’d celebrate by adding a Bikini Kill classic to our October playlist, because they’re a band who inspired us to create the Get In Her Ears radio show back in 2015, and then to grow the platform into a full website and live night too. It’s a privilege and a pleasure to work with two of my best friends Mari and Tash, and to share the work of so many talented musicians on this website. Thanks to everyone who has engaged with our corner of the internet so far. We’re always open to expanding our writing team, so if you’d like to get involved – even if you have no previous writing experience – please drop us a line. Contact details here. (KC)

New Pagans – ‘Better People’
Far removed from the righteous fury of the songs that formed their debut album, The Seed, The Vessel, The Roots and All, but still brimming with a strong social conscience, ‘Better People’ is Belfast-based band New Pagans’ ode to pushing through collective doubt, and veering towards hope instead of despair. (KC)

The Hyena Kill – ‘Cauterised’
I caught The Hyena Kill supporting Holy Fawn at 229 recently, and their set reminded me why you should always turn up early to see the other acts that are on the bill. Their heavy, bruising sounds thundered through the venue, commanded by drummer Lorna Blundell’s knockout percussion. Definitely catch them next time they’re in town. (KC)

Softcult – ‘One Of a Million’
I’m so glad that Canadian twin sibling duo Softcult are back with this lush, swirling new anthem. Urging listeners to recognise that “we are all more the same than different”, ‘One Of a Million’ is another atmospheric, bittersweet offering from the pair that’s perfect listening for the darker Autumn nights ahead. (KC)

th’sheridans – ‘Luka’
The latest single from indie-pop duo th’sheridans, ‘Luka’ is a cover of Suzanne Vega’s 1987 poignant country-pop classic. Whilst maintaining all the heartfelt twinkling emotion of the original as it tackles the song’s affecting theme of child abuse, it also oozes a unique fuzzy musicality and a beautiful lillting grace. (ML)

Roller Derby – ‘Only You’
Having first fallen in love with Hamburg-based indie trio Roller Derby when they supported Lunar Vacation live at Moth Club earlier this year, I was super happy to hear they had a new single out last month. Oozing a blissful allure, ‘Only You‘ flows with lilting hooks and the honey-sweet vocals of Philine Meyer as it builds with a shimmering, uplifting grace and Twin Peaks-esque eerie undertones to a truly euphoric soundscape propelled by a vibrant ’60s surf-pop energy. ‘Only You’ is out now via Practise Music. (ML)

Knife Girl – ‘Never Let Go’
A hazy, euphoric tune that meanders through early memories of a new love, this is the latest single from Finland’s Knife Girl. The track is lifted from her new album Uniform, which is described as “a mature summation of her sonic endeavours thus far.” Written when she was struggling with gender dysphoria whilst living in Japan, it’s a genre-spanding celebration, and acceptance of her new identity. (KC)

Jessica Winter – ‘Choreograph’
Jessica Winter’s gloomy girl banger ‘Sad Music’ got me through lockdown in 2020, so I’m thrilled to see she’s back with this majestic new alt-pop tune. I fully endorse dancing in the rain to it like she does in the accompanying video too, which you can watch here. (KC)

Husk – ‘Crush’
A catchy, danceable ‘tranthem’ of self-love, ‘Crush‘ is the latest single from Manchester queer artist Husk. A call to go against society’s expectations and love yourself, it’s propelled by vibrant beats and a colourful, ’80s-reminiscent groove; a glistening offering oozing all the uplifting vibes and shimmering energy needed to dance together in unity. (ML)

The Go! Team – ‘Divebomb’
Eighteen years after their debut LP, total faves The Go! Team have now announced a brand new album. Taken from the album, ‘Divebomb’ is an ode to Pro Choice activism, offering a perfect blast of colourful energy. Fizzing with frenzied layers of instrumentation and a racing drive, it’s an utterly joyous dose of sweeping euphoria. Get Up Sequences Part 2, the new album from The Go! Team, is set for release on 3rd February 2023 via Memphis Industries. (ML)

TSHA, Clementine Douglas – ‘Dancing In The Shadows’
This is song is SO GOOD, I can’t not move when I hear it! I hope it has the same impact on you too. (TW)

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