PLAYLIST: September 2026

The Get In Her Ears team have put together another eclectic mix of new music for your listening pleasure! Our September Playlist features plenty of alternative offerings, post-punk tunes, shoegaze riffs, indie & alt-folk musings, DIY punk anthems, and some experimental, instrumental and electronic sounds. Make sure you scroll through and read all about our recommendations below.

As you already know, to best support the artists we love here at GIHE, we now use TIDAL as our main playlisting platform, so please follow us on there! We’ve also included YouTube or bandcamp links for all of the tracks below, so there’s plenty of ways for you to get your new music fix. You can still access our GIHE profile on Spotify (which we do not have a paid subscription for) but we urge you to use TIDAL, bandcamp or YouTube instead. 

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Eilis Frawley – ‘Calm Down’
Interrogating the unreliability of algorithms and how they obscure the truth in her own idiosyncratic style, ‘Calm Down’ is the latest single from GIHE fave Australian-born, Berlin-based drummer and songwriter Eilis Frawley. It’s lifted from her upcoming second album, Twist My Words, which is set for release on 6th November via cult Berlin label Sinnbus Records. She combines her direct lyricism and distinctive spoken-word with her fluctuating percussive rhythms to unravel how it feels to be bombarded with versions of the “truth” online. “We’re surrounded by news, strong opinions, notifications, and algorithms, all tailored to our individual interests and needs. But is the truth being tailored too?,” Eilis shares about the context of her track. “In a world where everything competes for our attention, sometimes the most radical thing you can do is simply calm down.”
(Kate Crudgington – Features Editor)

M(h)aol – ‘Scam Manifesto’
I remember being struck by the raw power of Irish post-punks M(h)aol when I first heard their single ‘Laundries‘ back in 2020. This power still endures 6 years later, after three album releases and changes in their line-up, the band remain as cutting and contemporary as ever, especially on new single ‘Scam Manifesto’. Released via Merge Records and Tulle, it’s permeated with drummer and vocalist Constance Keane’s eviscerating honesty and dry wit, as she explores the contradiction of the image we present online, versus the one we try to obtain in private. “’Scam Manifesto’ is a song I wrote during one of my semi-regular social media breaks,” she explains. “My entire feed was ‘how to lose the last 5 lbs’ and obituaries for people I didn’t know. It’s about the guilt I feel about my own hypocrisy. Publicly, I say that as a woman it’s my right to be as ugly and old as I want and still value myself, while privately I was consistently fixating on a list of things I would change about my appearance. It’s about having one rule for others and another one for yourself.” (KC)

The Sewing Club – ‘Bark’
A swirling rumination on the unsettling nature of duplicity, I love this track from Nashville-based indie band The Sewing Club. ‘Bark’ is taken from their upcoming debut album, Sew, which is set for release on 2nd October via Born Losers Records. Led by the emotive vocals of multi-instrumentalist Hannah McElroy, the track blends melodic, fuzzy guitars with brooding bass lines to explore the “wolf in sheep’s clothing” scenario that Hannah muses over. “‘Bark’ was probably the hardest song to write on the record,” she explains. “The whole premise of the song is discovering someone isn’t who they say they are…I always tend to write the most depressing lyrics over the most melancholic guitar parts, but I really like that’s kind of just a mirror to the juxtaposition of life. Some of the most horrific things are totally normal.” (KC)

Minor Dents – ‘Rituals’
If you’ve not yet listened to Brighton’s Minor Dents’ Sitting With The Fish EP from earlier this year, you really should. Its swirling, shoegaze-tinged soundscapes and lilting Stereolab-reminiscent vocals are the stuff dreams are made of; the way different layers are interwoven seamlessly offers an evocative, ethereal haze that it’s easy to become completely immersed in. I can’t wait for Minor Dents to open our gig at Alphabet in Brighton next Friday 9th October. They’ll be supporting US band Perennial with Piney Gir, and I can promise it’ll be a magical night! Tickets are on DICE now and cheaper in advance.
(Mari Lane – Managing Editor)

Mariae Cassandra – ‘Splinter’
The new single from Australian one-to-watch Mariae Cassandra, ‘Splinters’ reflects on how feelings of self-trust and self-confidence can grow as we get older and gain strength from the experiences that we encounter along the way. Oozing a heartfelt vulnerability alongside catchy hooks and a twinkling emotion, it offers a beautifully tender ode to believing in yourself, reminiscent of the likes of Phoebe Bridgers or Blondshell. (ML)

Cosign – ‘Too Far For What’
It took approximately 5 seconds for me to decide that I loved this track from Belfast artist and producer Martha Greer aka Cosign. I love the blend of jagged and atmospheric electronics, coupled with her clear, gentle vocals. She describes ‘Too Far For What’ as dealing with “the friction of self-awareness versus self-destruction. It’s about knowing exactly how a compulsion ends but choosing to do it anyway”. The track is lifted from her upcoming EP, This Is What It Feels Like, which is set for release on 6th November via Our House Online. (KC)

YELF. – ‘brainrot’
A real gear-change from GIHE fave London-based, British-Swedish artist YELF. here, but it’s one I can get behind. Driven by two competing voices in the verses and choruses, ‘brainrot’ is a gritty-yet-infectious sonic exploration of trying to stay motivated in a world that seems to constantly drain us. Released on the autumn equinox – when day and night are equal – and produced, mixed and mastered in an abandoned bank in London by AKA Block, YELF. has actively sought to make ‘brainrot’ as all-consuming and intense as the neuroses that initially inspired the track’s conception. (KC)

Sijya – ‘Do I Know’ [Rachika Nayar Remix]
I named South Asian composer and producer Sijya as one of my ‘Ones To Watch‘ this year, after being captivated by the expansive electronica on her 2025 EP, Leather & Brass. Now, she’s gearing up to release a collaborative version of the same record, titled Leather & Brass [Retrofitted], set for release on 23rd October via One Little Independent Records. By enlisting the help of some of her favourite femme producers and artists, Sijya has re-worked her original tracks to reveal new layers to each of them. Brooklyn-based composer and producer Rachika Nayar has made her mark on ‘Do I Know’, showcasing the tenderness underlying Sijya’s original version. (KC)

Amahla – ‘Sticky’
Having been a big fan of Hackney raised artist Amahla since being charmed by the lush, soulful sounds of her 2019 single ‘Dorothy’s Verses’, we’re excited to hear that she’s back with a brand new single. Exploring the push and pull of love, ‘Sticky’ offers an infectious, jazz-tinged groove as Amahla reflects on the conflicting feelings of lust and knowing you should leave a relationship. Produced by WAVSDNTDIE, it showcases this innovative artist’s ability to combine a playful musical energy with her rich, resonant vocals and relatable lyricism. (ML)

Dana Margolin – ‘Big Beautiful Sound’
Known for her time over the last decade in acclaimed indie band (and personal favourites) Porridge Radio, Dana Margolin is now releasing her first solo single. Rippling with a stirring raw emotion as lilting stripped back melodies flow, ‘Big Beautiful Sound’ offers an exquisite rumination on self-discovery; an honest and heartfelt reflection on the journey from the darkness of despair, building with an anthemic splendour, to the glistening light of acceptance and hope. (ML)

Marina Yozora – ‘Snow Heat’ (String Session)
Japanese-born, London-based songwriter Marina Yozora continues to share the gentle evolution of her single ‘Snow Heat’ with this beautiful string-infused rendition of the track. Originally inspired by a brief connection with someone that now exists only in Marina’s mind, to honour the intensity of this fleeting moment, she has previously released a lyric video and an acoustic version to accompany the original single, and now she has added to the collection with this tender string session too. Marina plans to reveal the official video for ‘Snow Heat’ on the one year anniversary of the track’s release in 2027, which we will be keeping our eyes peeled for. (KC)

Ayanna Witter-Johnson – ‘Blue’
Another considered, emotionally resilient offering from acclaimed composer and MOBO-nominee Ayanna Witter-Johnson here. Through her tender vocals and resonant cello sounds, she provides an intimate snapshot into finding strength in vulnerability on ‘Blue’. The track is lifted from her recent album, New Roots, which she released through hero own imprint (Hill and Gully Records) in September. The LP is inspired by a plethora of personal and historical influences, including Ayanna’s reflections on her British-Caribbean identity and the inheritance of Windrush-era wisdom, grief and remembrance. Ayanna describes her album as “learning that new roots can be grown even in unfamiliar or fractured ground” – a poignant and comforting concept to hold on to. (KC)

ACTRESE – ‘Jasmine’
Self-described as “the perfect song for the end of summer”, ‘Jasmine’ is the latest single from indie-folk artist ACTRESE. Taken from her upcoming debut album, it flows with a sweeping immersive grace as lilting keys and strings ripple beneath the ethereal allure of the vocals. A stirring reflection on the initial beginnings of an infatuation – in the words of ACTRESE, “a feeling we’re not yet sure exists, or perhaps one we’re still too shy to admit.” (ML)

R Loomes – ‘Another Sip Of The Divine Specific’
This is the eponymous track from Sheffield-based musician R Loomes’ debut album, which she has released today! (30/09). ‘Another Sip Of The Divine Specific’ showcases the doom-folk songwriter’s beguiling vocal style and her intuition for pairing it with evocative riffs to create her potent and emotive sounds. “This song is about feeling the present as a cosmic, euphoric experience,” she explains, “allowing the depths of the subconscious to flow freely and giving it a voice with the aim of true authentic connection with the self and another.” (KC)

Softcult – ‘I Held You Like Glass’
Featured on their debut album, When A Flower Doesn’t Grow, which they released at the beginning of this year, Ontario-based grunge sibling duo Softcult have now shared a new video for their track ‘I Held You Like Glass’. The visuals feature the band viewed through fragmented glass, dimly lit, playing their instruments amidst shots of their hands in a bloodied state, reflecting the discomfort and numbness that they explore through their swirling riffs and melancholic vocals. “We wrote “i held you like glass” about the processing and letting go of unhealed trauma,” shares vocalist Mercedes Arn-Horn, who also directed the video. “The lyrics describe how it feels to internalize the dynamics of toxic relationships, comparing loving people that hurt us to holding broken glass; continuously wounding us until we let go.” (KC)

Esther’s Wife – ‘Anyone’s Man’
A brand new discovery for me, Esther’s Wife are already building a great reputation in their hometown of Glasgow, as well as receiving acclaim from the likes of BBC 6Music. Now, combining a gritty, impassioned energy with a more traditional folk-inspired musicality, recent single ‘Anyone’s Man’ offers a beautiful insight into what this young band are capable of. I can’t wait to hear more! (ML)

Matching Outfits – ‘Mini Moon’
Following 2025’s incredible break-up album, Ditch Me, Berlin band Matching Outfits’ latest single ‘Mini Moon’ may be my favourite track of the year so far. Combining jangly hooks with Linnea Mårtensson’s deadpan lyrics and candy sweet harmonies, it’s a gloriously lo-fi, instantly catchy reflection on the frustrating search for both romantic and artistic inspiration. I was lucky enough to catch the band live at The Ivy House while they were over in the UK a couple of weeks ago, and I highly recommend you do the same when they’re next here. Their tongue-in-cheek wit coupled with the shimmering musicality of their creations is bound to win you over. (ML)

Weather Happy – ‘Trees’
Following their debut single, ‘It Leaks Out’, brand new duo Weather Happy are back with another fantastic offering from their upcoming EP. Formed of Holly from Berries and her childhood friend Harry on drums, they’re already building a big buzz around the perfect combination of Holly’s distinctive songwriting style and seemingly effortless mega riffs with Harry’s fierce, spiky beats. Showcasing something slower-paced and more melodic than previous single, ‘Trees’ reflects on the comfort to be found in nature, and the consistent people in our lives – Holly explains: “I remember sitting in a wood surrounded by rustling leaves and creaking branches and I realised how comforting the sound of trees can be. They represent so much history and are such a solid presence. The lyrics ‘this soil grows beneath my feet, won’t trip me up, it keeps me steady’ are born from a similar place. Both reflect the solid people in our lives who help us through difficult trials and the comfort and reassurance we get from familiar faces and places.” Moth, the debut EP from Weather Happy, is out on 30th October via Easy Does It Records, and before that, the band are supporting legends Team Dresch at The Dome in North London tonight! (30/09) (ML)

Saoirse Dream – ‘grimdark’
‘grimdark’ is the title track from North American electronic-emo artist Saoirse Dream’s upcoming album, which is set for release on 9th October via Lauren Records. Saoirse blends emotive lyrics with melodic guitars and dramatic volume fluctuations to give ‘grimdark’ its racing, urgent quality. Alongside fellow North American artist Estelle Allen (who plays on their upcoming record) Saoirse Dream will be coming over to the UK & Ireland this November to play a series of shows in Bristol, Manchester, Glasgow, Dublin and Belfast. They’ll also be playing a headline show in East London on 13th November at Signature Brew. Tickets are available on DICE now! (KC)

DOG DAYS – ‘Starting Again’
This is the second single from Newcastle-based newcomers DOG DAYS. A hazy blend of indie riffs and brooding basslines, ‘Starting Again’ showcases the band’s ability to write infectious alternative tunes that smoulder with teenage angst. I look forward to hearing more offerings like this from DOG DAYS in the near future! (KC)

Chuck SJ – ‘Lovesick Puppy’
The latest single from GIHE fave Chuck SJ, ‘Lovesick Puppy’ offers a soaring reflection on queer identity and the conflicting feelings of needing some quiet time in nature whilst craving the sense of community and culture that city life brings. Going on to explore how transphobia has influenced Chuck’s relationship to grief and their mixed feelings around whether or not they would be accepted by their mother if she was still alive, it’s propelled by a raw stirring emotion and honest sense of vulnerability. A beautifully heartfelt introspection that builds with a twinkling musicality, switching between anthemic hooks and stripped-back delicate vocals. (ML)

Blue Bendy – ‘Dragonslayer’
Having first fallen in love with Blue Bendy, immediately captivated by their swirling cacophonies, at Deer Shed festival back in 2024, I’ve been missing new music from them over the last couple of years while the band have been on hiatus. But now, with a revised line-up and second album on the way, they’re back with a new single that maintains the seething raw emotion and glistening, fuzzy musicality that first captured my attention, whilst showcasing a more refined, all-encompassing sound. Of ‘Dragonslayer’, vocalist and songwriter Arthur Nolan reflects: “I was trying to look at Nationalistic mythology wrapped in a tragicomic romantic pop song, and the fantasies that any musician tells themself about fame, living in your own head.” One Day This Will All Be Lore, the upcoming second album from Blue Bendy, is set for release on 29th January 2027. (ML)

Count Florida – ‘Last Selfie’
Another new discovery from Glasgow, Count Florida look set to take the place of my indie-pop faves imminently. With its lilting melodies, stripped back bass and honey-sweet Belle and Sebastian reminiscent vocals, new single ‘Last Selfie’ offers a first taste of the band’s upcoming second album, in the form of a dreamy reflection on the trials and tribulations of an old relationship. With each of the band no stranger to the DIY music scene (bassist Andrew used to be in Shopping), and their new album promising “a witty, warm and proudly queer record”, I’m looking forward to hearing more from this Scottish trio. (ML)

Had Sandy – ‘I Hate My Parents and I Wanna Learn How To Swim’
The latest single from Brighton’s Had Sandy, ‘I Hate My Parents and I Wanna Learn How To Swim’ offers a nostalgic emo-tinged reflection on teenage angst that promises to “make you feel 16 again”. It does just that, and has me wishing I had a band like Had Sandy to resonate with when I was an angsty teen – the way their scuzzy, impassioned energy fizzes alongside their driving, catchy hooks would have been (and still is) just what I needed. (ML)

The Oozes – ‘Pump Out Some Kids’
Having had the honour of having art-punk queercore legends The Oozes play our GIHE 10th Anniversary party at The Cavendish Arms last year, I’m super excited that they’ve now announced the release of their debut album. Taken from the album, ‘Pump Out Some Kids’ is propelled by a driving frenzied energy, as the duo rage against the villainisation of the trans community and the deeply harmful rhetoric of trans exclusionary groups. Racing with a necessary sense of urgency, the track’s immediacy coupled with the seething emotion of its visceral vocals highlight the importance of the message behind it. The Oozes’ debut album will be released on 15th January 2027 and covers themes including navigating intersectionality within political spaces, disrupting stability in structures of power, and pushing against the relentless suppression of community used to maintain the holds of capitalism, fascism and colonialism. (ML)

Heavens To Betsy – ‘My Secret’
Sharing their first music since 1994, feminist punk trailblazers Corin Tucker (Sleater-Kinney) and Tracy Sawyer (The Husbands, The Flying Tigers, The Lies) aka Heavens To Betsy are making an extremely welcome return to our ears. As huge inspirations to us, both as fans of their music and influenced by their rebellious voices and desire to create safe spaces for women and the queer community within the Riot Grrrl movement, we’re excited by this recent announcement. A 16-track mission statement comprising a never-before-heard demo tape, baby’s gone was originally recorded by Bratmobile’s Molly Neuman and is now finally being digitised and released into the world, at a time when it seems more urgent than ever to bring attention to certain important issues. Album track ‘my secret’, for example, sees Corin Tucker grappling with the aftermath of a sexual assault; a subject that seems particularly resonant with what’s been in the news this week, and the pervasiveness of rape culture that continues to dominate society. (ML)

 

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Video Premiere: Gabi Garbutt – ‘Snaggletooth’

Having been a big fan of Gabi Garbutt since the release of their 2022 album Cockerel, and being utterly charmed seeing them live supporting queer folk legend Grace Petrie back in 2024, it’s been great to see them go from strength to strength over the last few years; they’ve received acclaim from the likes of Cerys Matthews and Chris Hawkins on BBC 6Music and John Kennedy on Radio X, had a chat with fellow ‘punk poet’ John Cooper Clarke for Clash, and now their recently released new album Radical Love has showcased just what a beautifully gifted songwriter and storyteller they are.

Following the release of the album’s poignant title track and the driving danceable allure of recent single ‘Lightning Held‘, Gabi is now sharing ‘Snaggletooth’. Flowing with lilting folk-strewn melodies, the track offers a heartwarming reflection on childhood; a beautifully stirring ode to being different, and finding comfort in music and nature, it’s yet another example of their exquisite songwriting and ability to ruminate on life’s challenges in a way that’s both relatable and empowering. Of the track, they explain:

“This song is about being a weirdo kid. It’s about not fitting in and instead getting lost in nature and the untamed energy of rock & roll. It’s about how that little troubled kid with a snaggletooth, obsessed with music, animals and birds, is still very much a part of me.”

‘Snaggletooth’ is accompanied by a wonderfully hand-crafted new stop-motion video. Made by Gabi with help from GIHE fave Jemma Freeman, it perfectly portrays the nostalgia and reflective sentiment of the track, using Gabi’s actual childhood toys!

Watch the video for the first time here:


Radical Love, the new album from Gabi Garbutt, is out now via INH Records.

And make sure you catch Gabi Garbutt celebrating the release, headlining for us at The Cavendish Arms this Thursday 10th September! Support comes from Celeste Madden with her dreamy, shoegaze-tinged offerings and First Timers Fest alumni The JuOh. Would love to see you there! Tickets are on Dice now and cheaper in advance (but we don’t turn anyone away for lack of funds so please do ping us a message if you fancy coming but would just like to pay what you want on the door).

Photo Credit: Suzi Corker

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LIVE: All Points East Presents Outbreak Fest

Having enjoyed immense line-ups at All Points East over the last few years – including being blown away by legends like Sleater Kinney, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Gossip, The Strokes and The Postal Service, to name a few! -, I was super excited to be able to head back to the increasingly desert-like terrain of Victoria Park to catch some incredible bands for their Outbreak Fest showcase last week.

Thankfully, I arrive just in time to catch Philadelphia’s Mannequin Pussy on the West stage, who I’ve been meaning to see for a couple of years now, as a big fan of their raw, emotion-filled punk anthems. Despite experiencing “every band’s worst nightmare” with an amp blowing up after the first song, Missy and co aren’t deterred, and – after a short interlude and plans to send FX Amps “a strongly worded email” – they blast straight back into an energy-soaked rendition of 2024’s ‘I Got Heaven’. Immersing the crowd in their gritty, swirling energy and fierce charisma, the band slow things down slightly as they dedicate the impassioned sentiment of ‘Control’ to the “fellow girls in the audience”, before raging back into the angst-driven power of anthems such as ‘Pigs Is Pigs’. A perfectly energising and empowering start to the day before I dash off to the ‘Rising’ stage to catch the last few songs of another incredible band…

© Khali Ackford

A ‘supergroup’ of sorts, formed by Tummyache’s Soren Bryce and Daniel P. Carter (known for hosting Radio 1’s Rock Show), Reclus.É have been on my ‘must see’ list since first coming across their immense debut single ‘A Muted TV’ a couple of months back. And they don’t disappoint. Oozing an utterly captivating seething emotion throughout, Bryce flits between a raging energy and soaring majestic splendour, delivering each powerful offering with a fierce sense of urgency and spellbinding allure. And, closing the set with an impassioned and poignant call to “Free Palestine. Fuck Trump, Fuck Nigel, Fuck any rising fascists… We’ve got to stick together”, Reclus.É instantly cement themselves as new favourites; a band creating hard-hitting genre-defying anthems whilst not being afraid to speak out against those in power, at a time when this is more important than ever. 

After squeezing into the youthful crowd around the X stage to catch some the buoyant energy of LA’s Clarion‘s first ever show in England – “let me see you fucking jump!”, I treat myself to the “life-changing” experience of an extremely tasty vegan burger from The Hogless Roast before heading over to the main East stage for a welcome wave of nostalgia for a few songs from the timelessly cool, forever lovable Interpol. After singing along to classics like ‘Evil’ and ‘Obstacle 1’,  we race back over to the X stage for the last couple of songs from South Africa’s Ecca Vandal. And, although I’m only able to catch the end of her set, I’m instantly blown away by her immense swirling energy and raw power. I hope she returns to the UK soon!

Returning to the West stage for a punk-fuelled trip down memory lane, getting to witness AFI live for the first time feels pretty special. As they kick off with ‘Girl’s Not Grey’, I’m instantly transported back to being 17 and listening to a recorded cassette of Sing The Sorrow on repeat and – although admittedly I stopped following the band as I got older – the fierce, enthused spirit and colourful charisma of front person Davey Havok and tight musicality of the band still resonate deeply, especially as I find myself remembering all the words to 2000’s ‘Days Of The Phoenix’.  

Rushing through the dust back to the East stage, I make my way through the adoring crowd just in time to join everyone in singing along to ‘You Should Not Be Doing That’ as Amy Taylor and co. (including temporary bassist Lakota Vella) command the stage as if it’s where they’ve always been meant to be. Having fallen in love with Amyl And The Sniffers back in 2023 when they played a very wet West stage (read our review here), I continue to be awe-struck by their raging ferocity and Taylor’s utterly beguiling playful allure as they power through an eclectic set of offerings from each of their three albums. From the racing energy of 2021’s ‘Security’ and ‘Guided By Angels’, to the raw tenacity of earlier anthems from their 2019 debut like ‘Got You’ and ‘Some Mutts Can’t Be Muzzled’, and the catchy empowering spirit of faves like ‘Me And The Girls’ and ‘Tiny Bikini’ from 2024’s Cartoon Darkness, every single song emanates a completely infectious joyous allure. Alongside Amy’s trademark cheeky, girlish allure, however, are songs with a real resonance and sense of rebellion, highlighted by her between-song chat which fluctuates between that teasing charm and poignant statements like “No future: that’s what we’re gonna have with all this heat and shit – fuck that.” And, dedicating the more mellow ‘Big Dreams’ to “all the queer people, all the trans people, and all the voices being silenced”, she doesn’t hold back in calling for a “Free Palestine and fuck all this right wing shit. We won’t stand for it.” Her consistently fearless attitude and boundless energy for using her platform to speak out for what’s right only adds to the huge love and adoration I (and evidently the rest of the crowd) feel for the band, and – as they end the set with the frenzied rage of ‘GFY’ – I’m left feeling grateful that powerful women like Amy are being given a platform to say what needs to be said, and being able to be their completely awesome selves on stage, no doubt inspiring and motivating countless young women and queer people to do the same. 

Next up, it’s back to the Rising stage to catch Dublin ones to watch Brooki. Having built a reputation purely on the power of their live shows across Ireland and UK, they immerse the crowd fully as they deliver soaring vocals and dark hooks, and I instantly understand the hype. Whilst this young band have not yet released a single, they have managed to build an impressive following through word of mouth about these incredible live performances, and now – having witnessed their soulful, grunge-fuelled power and gritty majestic allure in the flesh – I can completely understand why. Keep your eyes and ears peeled for Brooki – I’m quite sure they’ll be headlining events like this in the not too distant future. 

As the sun sets over Victoria Park and an orange dusky (/dusty) glow settles, I head back to the main East stage for the day’s headliners. Having initially delved into Deftones in an attempt to impress a guy I had a crush on who had an Around The Fur t-shirt when I was about 15, I continued to spend a great deal of my teen life absorbed in their music, and have continued to seek refuge in their angst-driven alt-metal soundscapes well into adulthood, though have never had the opportunity to see them live. Until now, 25 years later. Despite having a beer can thrown at my head (another, less welcome, blast from the past), I’m not disappointed. Far from it. Kicking off with personal favourite, ‘Be Quiet And Drive’,  Deftones deliver an incredible, and varied, set; the sound is full and rich, the energy and enthusiasm of Chino is high, and the atmosphere in the crowd is equally excited. As his silhouette bounds across the stage throughout, thanking us for coming and commenting on what a great day it’s been “filled with beautiful people and beautiful music”, I’m grateful to finally be seeing a band who’ve meant so much to me over the years, for whom my love has long outlasted that t-shirt guy… And, hearing 50,000 people yell “Shove It, Shove It, Shove It!” in unison along with the band, so long after it initially blasted through the earphones of my CD walkman, is pretty special. 

So, thank you All Points East for curating what felt like a really special day all round. A wonderful mix of nostalgia and completely fresh new music, the organisers have managed to balance showcasing established ‘legends’ and bigger names, whilst giving a platform to newer, upcoming bands; and all who seem perfectly in-keeping with the mood of the day, building up to Deftones’ headline set.

Words: @marigetinherears
Photos: @khaliphotography (Mannequin Pussy), @perry_gibson (Amyl & The Sniffers)

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PLAYLIST: August 2026

The Get In Her Ears team have put together another marvellous mix of new music for your listening pleasure! Our August Playlist features plenty of eclectic alt-pop tunes, DIY punk anthems, alternative riffs, indie & alt-folk musings, as well as some experimental and electronic sounds. We’ve also included some tributes to the late Dolly Parton and L7 bassist Jennifer Finch. Make sure you scroll through and read all about our recommendations below.

In order to best support the female, LGBTQIA+ and non-binary artists that we love here at GIHE, we’ve moved away from using Spotify. We now have an account on TIDAL, so please follow us on there. We’ve also included YouTube or bandcamp links for all of the tracks below, so there’s plenty of ways for you to get your new music fix.

You can still access our GIHE profile on Spotify (which we do not have a paid subscription for) but we urge you to use TIDAL, bandcamp or YouTube instead. 

CLICK HERE TO LISTEN (TIDAL)

 

Dolly Parton – ‘Coat Of Many Colours’
Like probably everyone who follows us, I was heartbroken to hear the news of Queen Dolly passing away this week. Although it may seem odd to grieve someone you never knew personally, I think it was easy to feel a connection with Dolly and a resonance to her radiant infectious joy and spirit. She really was such a huge inspiration – not only an incredible songwriter, performer and iconic woman until the very end – but such a wonderful advocate and supporter of marginalised communities. She was also the perfect example of how you don’t have to give birth to a child to be a mother figure. She cared for and actively helped so many children and young people throughout her life. I feel incredibly lucky and honoured to have seen her live at Glastonbury in 2014, a completely joyous experience and life highlight that I don’t think I’ll ever forget. She performed with such a playful energy and sweetness and her cheeky humour and incredible talent shone throughout, especially when she played the Benny Hill theme song on her mini saxophone!.
(Mari Lane – Managing Editor)

Aether Speaker – ‘Golden Hour’
A gorgeous piece of indie electro-pop here from London-based band Aether Speaker. ‘Golden Hour’ is full of front-person Yel’s soft, breathy vocals, underscored by hazy synths and gentle beats. The band explain that their psychedelic new offering is “poised between one world and the next, between soothing words and the truth” – delighting in ambiguity and lingering in the romantic ether. (Kate Crudgington – Features Editor)

Squirrel Flower – ‘Cleveland’
A beautiful ode to its namesake and the comfort of domesticity, ‘Cleveland’ is the latest single from Chicago based artist Ella Williams, aka Squirrel Flower. A song originally written with her her family band (the brilliantly named ‘uncommon rat’), it oozes a twinkling sentimentality and sense of nostalgia as Williams’ rich distinctive vocals flow, creating a heartfelt slice of Americana. Say A Prayer To The Gods Of Getting Going, the new album from Squirrel Flower, is out now via Polyvinyl Record Co. (ML)

Grandmas House – ‘Dance’
Congratulations to long-time GIHE faves Grandmas House on the release of their debut album! The Bristol band’s LP Baby You’re A Winner, released via Brace Yourself Records, is a superb amalgamation of their skill for writing urgent, cathartic anthems which reflect both the “light and dark” of the times that we live in. This track ‘Dance’ encapsulates that theme deftly, with Yasmin Berndt’s uniquely raspy vocals leading the charge as the band urge listeners to dance the pain away. (KC)

GRAVE GOODS – ‘Grit’
Based between Manchester and Dublin, experimental duo GRAVE GOODS create distinctive, primal sounds that examine the grind of modern existence. On this track ‘Grit’, Lois Macdonald (Guitar/vocals) and Sarah Grimes (drums/vocals) reflect on the the “existential disgust” that comes from separating the animalistic parts of ourselves in order to fit in with societal expectations. It’s a fascinating concoction of spoken-word-style vocals, contrasting beats and quirky riffs. The track also features the eponymous lyric of GRAVE GOODS’ upcoming album, Reality, Swallow Me., which was written and recorded to analogue tape at Analogue Catalogue Studios, with engineer and producer Julie McLarnon (Brighde Chaimbeul, The Altered Hours, Lankum). The LP is due for release on 25th September via bandcamp. (KC)

Trusselina – ‘Gastro’ / ‘Trusselina Archimboldi’
Philadelphia-based duo Trusselina are a new experimental pop project, formed of Mikaela Oppenheimer (Hello Mary) and Hayden McGarvey (Bleary Eyed). Together, they create jagged, intriguing soundscapes that blend acoustic and electronic elements, incorporating their love of ground-breaking literature, collaboration, and even their experience of food poisoning – which their double single release confidently covers. ‘Trusselina Archimboldi’ is inspired by a passage from Djuna Barnes’ acclaimed 1930s novel Nightwood, which is considered a prominent piece of early lesbian literature. The beat for ‘Gastro’ was concocted when Hayden was in the midst of an episode of food poisoning whilst on tour in France. I’m enjoying the eclectic nature of Trusselina’s sound and look forward to hearing more from the duo soon. (KC)

Emma Ruth Rundle – ‘Enough’
Another deeply emotive, powerful single from multi-instrumentalist Emma Ruth Rundle here. Inspired by both ‘The Man Who Sold The World’ and the story of Elijah – in which Emma explains she “imagines [Elijah] as an Elon Musk type figure” – ‘Enough’ is an epic reflection on modern wealth, greed, and a poetic cry for us to rise up against the powers that continue to benefit from this inequality. ‘Enough’ features on her upcoming sixth album, These Killing Times, which is set for release on 18th September via her own imprint Errant Child. (KC)

Tanzana – ‘Without A Sound’
Having been a big fan of Glasgow’s Tanzana since being spellbound by the soaring energy of last year’s ‘Covet’, I’m excited to hear that they’ll be releasing their debut EP in October. Ahead of the EP, they’ve now shared a powerful new single. Rippling with a dark majestic splendour and building with a fierce impassioned energy, ‘Without A Sound’ offers a reflection on the cathartic process of making art, as well as the frustration that can be felt when we reach our limit. An insight into the captivating and poignant genre-defying soundscapes the band are able to create. Etched In, the debut EP from Tanzana, is out on 9th October via SO Recordings & Hideous Mink Records. (ML)

Desperate Journalist – ‘Terrible Years’
Having just announced that their sixth album will be released in November, longtime favourites Desperate Journalist have now shared its lead single. Propelled by a gritty force and front woman Jo Bevan’s impassioned vocals, ‘Terrible Years’ offers a fierce post-punk anthem. Lyrically told from the perspective of someone in denial about how much they miss the excitement of youth, it captures the band’s ability to fuse a ‘90s-tinged hooks with a fresh raging energy that is distinctly their own. Gilding The Lily, the upcoming album from Desperate Journalist, is out on 20th November via Fierce Panda Records. (ML)

Rose Fatale – ‘Hole In The Head’
Belfast punks Rose Fatale embrace their softer, sapphic side on their latest single ‘Hole In The Head’. Leaning into alt-rock sensibilities, they blend impassioned vocals, earnest lyrics and driving riffs to create a melancholic whirl of noise. The band recently performed on Belfast Pride’s City Hall stage and are planning to play more gigs soon. (KC)

Team Dresch – ‘Growing Underground’
When queercore legends Team Dresch announced their return a couple of months ago, I was beyond excited, having been a mega fan since first hearing them when I was at uni 20 years ago. Now, ahead of their new album, Furthermore, which is set for release on 18th September, they’ve shared a powerful new anthem; a fierce call to action to resist the hegemonic, hateful systems which continue to oppress marginalised voices, its driving riotous energy celebrates collective, intersectional values and offers a defiant sense of unity and a hope that a brighter future is possible: “The song imagines shared communities becoming the very thing that nurtures future life. Love is embodied through chosen families, interconnected communities, and the networks that have always sustained one another.” I never thought I’d get to see Team Dresch live, and so I can’t wait to finally catch them downstairs at The Dome on 30th September. They had to move to a bigger venue than The Lexington due to high demand! (ML)

Tender Claws – ‘Tear Him To Pieces’
Having just released her debut EP, Belfast born Tess Corr aka Tender Claws creates haunting, immersive goth-inspired soundscapes, driven by a fiercely dark energy. The EP’s title track, ‘Tear Him To Pieces’, showcases her rich ethereal allure as rich, impassioned vocals soar over swirling expansive hooks. (ML)

Eilis Frawley – ‘Guilt’
We love all of the musical endeavours that drummer and songwriter Eilis Frawley undertakes here at GIHE, and we’re excited that she’s back releasing new music. This track ‘Guilt’ is the first offering from her upcoming second album, and it’s an apt reflection on the frightening and polarising times we’re living in. Led by her distinctive spoken-word vocals and gritty beats, ‘Guilt’ is an urgent reminder to engage with the world in a meaningful way and not to be desensitized by the carefully curated algorithms on our social media accounts. Eilis explains the track’s context further: “I have my own guilt, you open Instagram, in one moment you can witness a child being blown to pieces, and then the next minute someone’s trying to sell you an over priced bag or tell you how to optimise your life. I find the western world’s response petrifying to what’s happening in Gaza, and Lebanon, and Sudan, and the Congo. No reason will make a good enough reason for the amount of civilians killed, and traumatised”. (KC)

GOOD GRIEF – ‘Lucy’
Following on from their feisty debut single ‘Bait Shop’, Seattle-based duo GOOD GRIEF are back with this tender ode to unrequited love during queer adolescence. ‘Lucy’ is a track that “sparkles with curiosity – but not naivete,” reflecting on the poignancy of budding queer romantic feelings whilst softly reminding listeners of their beauty and validity. Inspired by grief, rage and love, GOOD GRIEF are currently working on their debut album, the aptly titled Not Over It, so keep your eyes peeled for more info about that in the near future! (KC)

Railcard – ‘Flanelette’
Consisting of current members of Heavenly and ex-members of Dolly Mixture and Death In Vegas, I’d definitely class Railcard as an indie-pop supergroup – and their new single is pretty super too. Showcasing their swooning honey-sweet vocals and lilting uplifting melodies perfectly, ‘Flanelette’ is taken from their upcoming debut album, Two Steps At A Time, which is set for release on 18th September via Skep Wax Records. (ML)

R Loomes – ‘The Self Demands a Reckoning’
A hypnotic offering from Sheffield-based musician R Loomes here. ‘The Self Demands a Reckoning’ is a potent piece of doom-folk that she describes as “a sort of personal prayer”, in which she attempts to sever the link between mind and body and “navigate the world [as a] free spirit.” As with her previous single ‘Passerine’, the track blends her beguiling vocals and richly atmospheric riffs to create a determined and fluid sound. ‘The Self Demands a Reckoning’ is taken from R Loomes upcoming debut album, Another Sip of the Divine Specific, which is set for release on 30th September. (KC)

Clara Mann – ‘News From Home’
A truly spellbinding soundscape, ‘News From Home’ is the new single from London based multi-disciplinary artist Clara Mann. Taken from her upcoming, literary-inspired, album Wishbone, it offers an immersive expansive musicality alongside the sparkling emotion of her resonant vocals as she reflects on how our feelings towards where we’re from can change and develop over time. Wishbone is out on 23rd October via state51. (ML)

YELF. – ‘flesh’
‘flesh’ is the second offering from London-based, British-Swedish artist YELF., who I am a big fan of. It’s a sultry reflection on lust and longing, inspired by the ebb and flow of the ocean. It’s a “neo-psychedelic ode to desire, fantasy and the brain-body connection,” as YELF. explains, underscored by her yearning vocals, immersive electronics and poetic lyricism. ‘flesh’ was also produced and mixed in Brighton (literally by the sea!) by Michael Baker and includes harp played by Fior Anderson and even the tinkling sound of glasses from Baker’s kitchen cupboards too. (KC)

Selkie – ‘Lick The Sun’
Today (28th July), Glasgow-based songwriter and producer Selkie has shared her debut EP, inWaves, which this single ‘Lick The Sun’ features on. Full of her tender vocals and considered instrumentation, she has created an atmospheric collection of tracks that beautifully melt into each other. She’ll be celebrating her debut release with a small UK tour in October and a showcase performance at Aberdeen Music Week too. (KC)

Marina Yozora – ‘Snow Heat’ (Acoustic)
We’re big fans of Japanese-born, London-based songwriter Marina Yozora here at GIHE, and we love how she’s continuing to share different evolutions of her poignant track ‘Snow Heat’. It’s a poetic rumination on a brief connection with someone that now exists only in Marina’s mind, and to honour the intensity of this fleeting moment, Marina released a lyric video to accompany the original single, and now she has shared a beautiful acoustic version of the track too. She also plans to reveal the official video for ‘Snow Heat’ on the one year anniversary of the track’s release, which we are eagerly anticipating. (KC)

Mother Church – ‘Wait To Kiss Me Until Heaven’
An unlikely collaboration between a founding member of HMLTD and an ordained priest, Mother Church create their own unique brand of alternative folk, drawing on an eclectic range of literary and theological influences. A stirring reflection on the pleasures and contradictions of virtue and temptation, ‘Wait To Kiss Me Until Heaven’ oozes a captivating mystical allure alongside its lilting folk-strewn musicality. Yolk, the debut album from Mother Church, is set for release in November via Trapped Animal Records. The band will be playing a special release show at St Pancras Old Church on 13th November. (ML)

BERTY – ‘Take For Granted’
Inspired by the power of unconditional love in our meaningful relationships, songwriter and producer BERTY penned this track ‘Take For Granted’. It’s an earnest refection on the Forest of Dean-based artist’s feelings about human connection, showcasing her intuitive nature as a songwriter. BERTY is currently working on a new EP, which she is set to release in the near future. (KC)

Brennan Wedl – ‘High Priestess’
Having just released her self-titled new album, Nashville based artist Brennan Wedl has been a favourite of mine for a couple of years now. I’m a big fan of her wonderfully self-labelled “grungetry” sound (a perfect fusion of grunge and country, in case you were wondering!) and raw Sheryl Crow-reminiscent vocals. The final single to be taken from the album, ‘High Priestess’ reflects on the otherworldly intuition of the tarot card and the thoughts and feelings that can swirl around our heads when trying to face reality head on.(ML)

The Genes – ‘Charlotte’
I first became a fan of awesome Coventry band The Genes after seeing them at Decolonise Festival in 2025, and then loved having them play for us supporting WIDGET earlier this year. Now, they’ve released their first proper single and it’s pretty great. Self-described as a “high energy punk anthem with a uniquely British story”, ‘Charlotte’ is a love letter to the Ford Transit. Inspired by years of DIY touring, late-night motorway drives and the vans that somehow survive gig after gig, the song celebrates the unsung hero that’s carried countless independent bands across the UK. I love the track’s playful tongue-in-cheek energy and scuzzy hooks and can’t wait to hear more from this unique band. (ML)

L7 – ‘Shitlist’
Another incredibly inspirational woman that we tragically lost earlier this month was Jennifer Finch, the bassist from legendary grunge-punk band L7. At just the age of 59, it seems extremely unfair that she should be gone already. Anyone who’s ever been to a GIHE gig is probably aware of how much we love L7, as I include either ‘Shitlist’ or ‘Wargasm’ on most of our pre-band playlists – their tunes have never failed to energise and motivate me, and seem like the perfect way to get people psyched up for the amazing bands who play for us. I was lucky enough to see L7 live in Camden in 2015 for their first UK gig since initially breaking up in 2001, and I remember being utterly blown away by Finch’s immense fierce energy and presence and the way her swirling life-force and booming hooks reverberated into the crowd. (ML)

Bugeye – ‘This Is What I Want’
Following the release of their recent second album, The Shape Of Things, and support slots with big names such as The Datsuns and Loose Articles, longtime faves Bugeye have now shared an empowering new single. Offering a middle finger to the outdated expectations of women that still prevail within society, ‘This Is What I Want’ oozes a sultry playful allure and danceable groove-laden hooks whilst raging against the “toxic manosphere”. Of the track, front woman Angela Martin says that it’s dedicated to “every woman who’s ever been told to know her place. Here’s the truth: your place is wherever you choose to stand. Stand tall, stand loud, and never apologise for demanding the respect you’ve always deserved.” (ML)

Four Degrees Colder – ‘Reminisce’
‘Reminisce’ is the opening track from Four Degrees Colder’s debut album, Nothing To Do. Released in July, the St. Louis-based alternative pop-rock duo take their listeners on a captivating, track-by-track journey through a decaying factory overtaken by artificial intelligence. Propelled by their clear vocals, driving riffs and electronic textures, the pair aim to inspire a sense of hope and persistence throughout their LP, ultimately refusing to succumb to the “the fear of becoming obsolete.” (KC)

Tiiva – ‘I Keep Falling In Love’
We’re big fans of producer and sound & game designer Tiiva here at GIHE, so I’m chuffed to see they’re back with a new single and a new record. ‘I Keep Falling In Love’ is lifted from the Lake District alt-pop artist’s upcoming album, This Could Be A Start, which is set for release on 25th September. It’s a euphoric swirl of buoyant electronics, floaty vocals and glitchy beats. “The story throughout the album is how we as humans navigate love, neurodivergence, AI interactions, and our desire to be everywhere all at once; in the mountains, in the city,” Tiiva explains. “Each song represents an internal character – the optimist, the party kid, the recovering addict, the loner, the nostalgic. Some of the songs could read as romantic but in reality we are all looking for connection, and we find it in not always the most obvious places.” Tiiva will be celebrating the release of their new LP with an immersive headline show at Spanners in South London on 30th September. See you there! (KC)

Sidney Packard – ‘Acer Tree’
Non-binary, alt-pop artist Sidney Packard envelops their listeners in dark atmospheric electronics and soft vocals on their latest single, ‘Acer Tree’. The London-based musician penned the track as an ode to the plant they really adore, which are more commonly known as Japanese Maple trees and are known for their distinctive leaf shape and red foliage.
Sidney will be playing a gig in London – which coincides with their birthday! – on Saturday 12th September at The Phoenix. (KC)

Maria Uzor – ‘Cyclops’
We’re super excited that GIHE mega fave Maria Uzor will be releasing her second album, Fantasyland, on 3rd September. Showcasing Uzor’s unique ability to seemingly effortlessly fuse together genres ranging from grunge to techno, the album explores notions of escapism in a world that appears increasingly unpredictable. Taken from the album, recent single ‘Cyclops’ pulsates with immense glitchy beats as the seductive power of Uzor’s vocals takes hold, and an immersive dub-inspired energy propels you onto the dancefloor. Keep your eyes peeled for a special interview with Maria on the website over the next couple of weeks. (ML)

NAMELESS TWIN – ‘Neon Machine Gun’
I love everything about this haunting new single from industrial-electronic duo Alicia Rei Kim (Dokoe) and Ryan Osterman (Holy Fawn) aka NAMELESS TWIN. They’ve only released a handful of tracks to date, but all of them have been a perfect blend of their dramatic volume shifts and dark, dreamy electronics. ‘Neon Machine Gun’ is their first new release since 2023, but I hope they’ll be sharing more of their ominous sounds in the near future. (KC)

Ladybug 2 (The Bug, Friday Night Plans) – ‘Miss U’
Under the moniker of Ladybug, UK-based producer The Bug has launched a new collaborative series via his own imprint PRESSURE. The project sees him work alongside different female vocalists to explore new sonic territory, and this track features the voice of one of his personal favourites: Japanese songwriter Friday Night Plans. ‘Miss U’ is another heady, cell-tingling offering from the eclectic collaborators, and if you can’t get enough of the original, the duo have also shared five accompanying “alternate” versions that you can sink your teeth into, available on bandcamp now. (KC)

 

 

Missperception – ‘Into The Glitch’
By combining her love of electronic music, jazz elements and cinematic soundscapes, Yorkshire-based independent artist Missperception creates an infectiously glitchy atmosphere with her music. This aptly titles track ‘Into The Glitch’ is lifted from her recent EP, Static Symphony, which she says is formed of “Four rooms…four transmissions…a signal from the edge, where melody frays into static.” (KC)

 

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