INTERVIEW: Kate Webster of Deer Shed Festival

Last year I attended Deer Shed Festival for the first time, and I promised myself it would the be the first time of many as it was such a glorious weekend! Having not been to a festival for a few years, I was keen to find one that was as lovely as possible, and suited my needs of being perhaps a little older than the average festival-goer without missing out on any of the best new music. I wanted a festival that was inclusive, chilled-out, family friendly, and of course hosting plenty of amazing female and non-binary bands and artists… And Deer Shed more than delivered on all fronts.

Highlighting a real family-friendly focus, whilst hosting an incredible range of exciting new artists, the North Yorkshire based Deer Shed perfectly filled the festival-shaped-void I’d been feeling, and – with highlights from last year including Self Esteem, CMAT, Straight Girl, Nadine Shah and Denise Chaila – I cannot wait to return in a couple of weeks.

We caught up with festival director Kate Webster to talk more about Deer Shed’s roots, its ethos and inclusive line-up, some of the most special Deer Shed moments of years gone by, and more… Have a read below, and have a listen to our special Deer Shed 2023 playlist, featuring some of our personal faves who’ll be playing at the festival this year, at the bottom of this feature!

Hi Kate! 2023 will be Deer Shed’s 13th year – hopefully lucky for some! Can you tell us a bit about what Deer Shed is all about, and how it all started out?
Deer Shed Festival is a boutique music, arts & science festival based in North Yorkshire parkland, aimed at families who don’t want a dumbed down experience just because you have kids in tow.

What strikes me about Deer Shed and makes it stand out against other festivals at the moment is the good gender balance of the line up – was there an intentional and specific decision to do this, or does it just naturally pan out that way?  
I booked the festival up until our 11th year and initially it happened unconsciously just because of the music I like. After a while, we decided it make it a policy of the festival that our gender split should be 50/50 and also at least one of the headlines needs to be female and/or non binary. It’s been great – because of our size we have been able to give some deserving acts the chance of a festival headline. Can you believe that we gave Goldfrapp they’re first festival headline in 2018?! I find that bonkers!

Over the last 12 years, you’ve hosted some amazing bands and artists including Self Esteem, Nadine Shah, CMAT, Kae Tempest, Anna Calvi, Big Joanie, Ezra Furman, The Go Team! and Honeyblood, but has there been a particular set that stands out for you as a personal highlight over the years?
Kae Tempest for sure. It was 2017, they were promoting Let Them Eat Chaos which is a phenomenal album, and it was also their first festival headline. The actual performance was extra special to me and many of the audience that evening.  The skies darkened, the rain poured and in the distance, lightning flashed. It meant, for those who stayed (and a lot did), the whole experience was electrifying and so moving. I still get shivers now when I think about the power of that evening. It was like nature knew what the backdrop should be for that performance.


And this year you’ve got some GIHE faves playing (The Big Moon, Dream Wife, This Is The Kit, English Teacher, Sprints…). Curating such awesome line ups must be a lot of work – how do you normally go about it? Is it all based on bands/artists that have got in touch with you over the year? 
We’ve had a booker for the last couple of years – I think Covid meant the job had got harder and I needed a break. It was also a good time to get some fresh ears to help. However, as festival director, I still want input and I think next year we’ll bring it in house again. We generally start with a wish list and play fantasy festival which is great fun; the whole Deer Shed team are into music, so everyone chips in and has suggestions of who they have seen perform during the year or might have new music coming out. We talk to friends in the industry and agents, so see what’s going on. Practically speaking, we only start making offers in Autumn, so that’s the best time to contact us. We must get the headlines in place before moving down the bill which can take some time.

And for any upcoming bands/artists looking to apply for festivals next year, do you have any tips?
Start building a live following in your local venues. Practice to become a great performer and engage with your audience. A festival crowd is different to your own show – you have one song to win them over! Whilst a lot of artists get an online following and good streaming numbers, it doesn’t always translate to live.

There seems to be a definite focus on making the festival as family-friendly as possible, and when I was there last year it just had the nicest, most relaxed vibes I’ve ever experienced at a festival! What inspired the idea to do this, and stand out from other festivals in this way? 
When Oliver and I decided to give it a go, it wasn’t long after festivals like Latitude & Camp Bestival had started and there was no one doing anything similar in the north. I couldn’t see live music like I had done because of family commitments, and many events near by didn’t offer me the chance to see great music and have the kids entertained. So, Deer Shed was really built for me & my friends initially – music fans who happen to have kids. It turned out there were other people like me!

Do you feel much has changed over the last few years in the music industry’s treatment of new artists, particularly female and non-binary artists? 
I think there is more awareness of mental health and agents/managers are now more mindful over booking artists. I also hope the idea of booking a tokenistic female/non-binary act has come to an end… But I do still worry that some young female artists are led a certain way on how they present and what they wear. There seem to be some genres of music where I’m not convinced that a stylist/photographer/label didn’t have a brief to come back with a certain look.  

Finally, as we’re a new music focused site, are there any particular new bands or artists you’d recommend we check out?
I’m totally excited that we managed to book Grove this year. I know they’re not that new but their energy, style & music is infectious. So good live! I’ve not seen Pet Snake live yet, but I’m loving the Liverpool based artist – alt folk/indie at its best, just great songwriting.  

Massive thanks to Kate for answering our questions, and for organising such a stellar festival year on year! Deer Shed Festival 2023 is taking place from 28th – 30th July and headliners include The Delgados, The Comet Is Coming, The Big Moon and This Is The Kit – more information here.

Get ready for the festival by listening to our playlist of brilliant bands playing this year here:

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PLAYLIST: Trans Pride 2023

Although we support and promote the queer community all year round at GIHE, we acknowledge Pride as a chance to celebrate LGBTQI+ joy and achievements, how far we’ve come, as well as a protest and the need to continue to push for acceptance. With this in mind, this year it felt more resonant than ever to highlight the Trans community. At a time when their rights are being further questioned and curtailed, we want to not only show our support and draw attention to the need for change, but to celebrate Trans Joy and creativity. Our co-founder Tash Walker expands:

We can’t ignore what is happening in the world right now when it comes to trans rights and inclusion, right the way down to our younger trans siblings. As public support for trans people feels ever questioned here in the UK, at Get In Her Ears we want to create a space that centres TRANS JOY in all its beauty, through the music we play. It can be so easy for our ears to focus on the hate and transphobia, but a moment to turn the volume up on the joy is so powerful and when you look for it, it’s everywhere. 

Only four months ago, when I was at the Brihanna Ghey vigil E J Scott a trans archivist was handing out packets of sweets, and saying “have a little bit of trans joy”. Recently I was interviewing Professor Stephen Whittle (co-founder of Press for Change who lobbied the Govt to bring about the Gender Recognition Act) – during that interview, I asked him what joy meant to him and he said “I feel trans joy, I really do” and it made us both smile so much. 

So let’s focus on and create the space to include trans voices because the global and UK negativity is so loud, but joy is always louder and lasts longer.  One of the biggest forms of ‘activism’ is to live your life as yourself (if you feel safe to do so), so we want to uplift and create a space for us to hear trans people and their joy. Hear that not only is there such a thing as trans joy but that if we all listen, as a society, push back to make that space bigger and bigger, until it becomes a part of all of our lives through acceptance and liberation, it will bring us all joy too. 

Remember the lengths the LGBTQIA+ communities have come, but more importantly, how far we still have to go. The LGBTQIA+ communities and their allies need to stand strong and united with each other, but especially the transgender and gender non-conforming communities. So wherever you are, at whatever Pride you are supporting this summer, spread the word and make it known – equality is for everyone, but most importantly, trans lives matter, trans kids deserve to be trans adults. No-one is equal until we are all equal.

Our 2023 Pride playlist includes tracks by some of our favourite trans, non binary and queer artists, as well as a few songs voicing support/rage on their behalf. Read about our choices below, and then hit play for the perfect soundtrack for London Trans Pride weekend!

 

Jackie Shane – ‘Any Other Way’
We’ve played Canadian soul-singer Jackie Shane multiple times on our GIHE radio show, included her on many a playlist and we’re certainly not stopping now. Jackie was a pioneer for transgender rights in the ’60s & ’70s, a time when being your true self was not always welcomed, or accepted. (Tash Walker)

Ma Rainey – ‘Prove It On Me Blues’
This 1928 song by Ma Rainey, who is unarguably the mother of blues, is possibly one of the first references to queer lesbian culture. Ma Rainey, a queer woman sings, “Went out last night with a crowd of my friends. They must’ve been women, ’cause I don’t like no men.” An essential to any LGBT+ playlist. (TW)

Shea Diamond – ‘I Am Her’
As early as transgender singer Shea Diamond can remember, she identified as a girl – and was punished for it. At age 20, she robbed a convenience store at gunpoint – desperate, she says, to fund her gender-affirming surgery. Behind bars (in a male prison), Diamond found her voice as a songwriter, and wrote this track ‘I Am Her’. I just love its poignant, soulful groove. (Mari Lane)

Beverly Glenn-Copeland – ‘Africa Calling‘
I have always loved Beverly’s music and I am so excited for their forthcoming album, this is the first new music we’ve had from them in 20 years. He is such an incredibly talented artist, a true icon. A Black trans electronic music pioneer! (TW)

Le Tigre – ‘Viz’
I can’t really put into words how life-affirmingly wonderful it was to see Le Tigre live at the Troxy last month, so I’ll leave my general gushing about that to another time. However, a particularly special moment of their set was JD Samson singing this – calling on queers of every kind to dance / march / rage in joyous unity to raise visibility, so that everyone can be free to live life as their true selves. (ML)

Hercules & Love Affair – ‘Blind’
Taken from their self-titled album released in 2008, the same year I attended London Pride for the first time, this is without a doubt the theme tune to me fully embracing my sexuality, feeling proud of who I was and strong enough to come out happily in all aspects of my life. (TW)

Planningtorock – ‘Transome’
I have Tash to thank for introducing me to the sounds of Planningtorock. Watching them perform songs from their Powerhouse album at Southbank Centre back in 2019 was such a joyful and moving affair. Tash & I even joined in the stage invasion! This track ‘Transome’ is a total bop. It’s a sultry, playful celebration of what it’s like to truly be feeling yourself, and that’s what Pride is all about. (Kate Crudgington)

SOPHIE – ‘Immaterial’
This track is taken from SOPHIE’s debut album and I love it. A pioneer of experimental music, often the producer behind so many other amazing tracks, remixes and artists. Described as disorientating latex pop which I think sums up my first experience of seeing SOPHIE live – intense at its best. (TW)

Mykki Blanco – ‘Free Ride’
This is a song from an artist who I feel needs no introduction, a queer pioneer who is doing amazing things for LGBTQ+ rights as well as being open about their positive HIV status. Mykki Blanco is also such an incredible artist and their music is just oh so gooooood. (TW)

HUSK – ‘Let’s Get Married’
The latest single from Manchester based trans masculine non-binary artist Husk, ‘Let’s Get Married’ offers a synth-soaked anthem, oozing a joyous groove and colourful uplifting allure. In HUSK’s own words, it’s a “sickly sweet, tongue-in-cheek tale ripped straight from a rom-com storyline of being hopelessly, head over heels in obsession after ‘all of 3 days’ of meeting your new one-true-love.” Donate to their top surgery revision fundraiser here.(ML)

Tokky Horror – ‘Toilet’
Electro punks Tokky Horror have a reputation for being a TOTAL force of nature when they perform live, and they’re dedicated to creating safe spaces to mosh for women and LGBTQ+ folks at their gigs. This track ‘Toilet’ is a blend of drum & bass beats, manic riffs and surprisingly vulnerable lyrics, inspired by producer Zee’s own experiences of finding their feet within queer activist scenes in music and further afield. (KC)

The Crystal Furs – ‘Gay Bar’
A catchy rendition of the Electric Six classic by Pacific Northwest queer indie poppers The Crystal Furs. Described by the band as a ‘sapphic tale of lust’, it’s the perfect addition to any dancefloor! (ML)

Touch Excellent – ‘Record’
This tenacious anthem from Touch Excellent takes aim at the failures of the healthcare system when it comes to treating women, non-binary and transgender folks. Fuelled by the Dublin-based band’s collective anger and own experiences, the track is a brief but powerful blast of attention-grabbing pop punk noise. Playfully self-describing themselves as “Ireland’s most transgender band (surely)”, Touch Excellent create raw, frenzied, politically-driven cacophonies that are designed to dismantle the systems that oppress us. (KC)

Chroma – ‘Woman To Woman’
An impassioned call to arms in support of all people of minority genders, I can’t get enough of Welsh rockers Chroma’s immense, fierce energy. Calling out those who call themselves feminists whilst actively oppressing others, it blasts out the poignant message that “Trans Women Are Women” with a searing urgency. I can’t wait for Chroma to headline for us on 8th September at Shacklewell Arms – catch them live before they hit the stadium opening for Foo Fighters next year! Tickets here. (ML)

Problem Patterns – ‘Terfs Out’
“LGB is nothing if not for the T / So show up with some real solidarity” – Belfast Riot Grrrls Problem Patterns hitting the nail on the head with this total punk banger. We love everything that the band represent and how vocal they are about supporting the LGBTQ+ community. Their most recent single ‘Letter Of Resignation‘ is all about celebrating queer joy and ally-ship, too. I can’t wait to hear both these tracks live again when Problem Patterns headline for us on Friday 17th November at the Sebright Arms. Grab a ticket here (KC)

Trap Girl – ‘Diva’s Inferno’ 
Fresh from signing to Kill Rock Stars, LA punks Trap Girl have just announced the release of their upcoming new EP, Diva’s Inferno – out on 14th July. Intent on bringing “visibility to what it is to be trans, big, brown and glamorous” (Candace Hanson, Razorcake Magazine), Trap Girl offer perfectly powerful raging anthems with an impassioned queer energy. Listen to the EP’s title track here (it’s only on Bandcamp, so we’ve included 2020 single ‘Transwomen and Chokeholds’ on our Spotify playlist). (ML)

Petrol Girls – ‘Fight For Our Lives’
Featuring inspirational activist and DIY punk Janey Starling, ‘Fight For Our Lives’ offers a resonant call to arms to reclaim control over our own bodies and unite in coming together to fight against the confines and dangers of this damaging patriarchal society and create a safer world for all marginalised groups. A raging cacophony fuelled by a riotous catharsis – as with every track on last year’s Baby album, it’s an utterly necessary listen from Petrol Girls. (ML)

Jemma Freeman & The Cosmic Something – ‘Huge’
Channelling the mindset of a child with ADHD, trying to make sense of a locked down world, ‘Huge’ is propelled by a chaotic energy, rippling with fizzing hooks as the swirling power of Jemma’s truly distinctive vocals soars. Building with a sparkling psychedelic allure to an immense, colourful cacophony, it showcases the raw emotive majesty that this innovative artist is able to create. (ML)

Ezra Furman – ‘Forever Sunset’
Taken from last year’s All Of Us In Flames album, this track exudes such a delicate grace and beautifully raw emotion that it gives me goosebumps on each listen. Coming out as a trans woman in 2021, Ezra Furman shared a picture of herself with her child, with the accompanying message: “I’m telling you I’m a mom now for a specific reason. Because one problem with being trans is that we have so few visions of what it can look like to have an adult life, to grow up and be happy and not die young. When our baby was born I had approximately zero examples that I had seen of trans women raising children. So here’s one for anyone who wants to see one. I’m a trans woman and a mom. This is possible.” (ML)

Bitch Hunt – ‘Identity Clinic’
It’s no secret that I’ve been a super fan girl of First Timers alumni Bitch Hunt for a few years now – I just can’t get enough of their gently empowering, cathartic energy and scuzzy punk-pop. This track seems particularly poignant right now, as trans youth are faced with increasingly long waiting times to access the healthcare and support that they urgently need. (ML)

Um Jennifer? – ‘Girl Class’
The brand new single from NYC duo (and fantastically named) Um Jennifer?, ‘Girl Class’ is a perfect slice of fuzzy lo-fi punk-pop. Of the track, they explain: “‘Girl Class’ was born out of craving community within trans girlhood. It’s about unbecoming and becoming; being molded by expectations of femininity. Ultimately, it’s the realisation that despite the noise, there is no one way to be a girl.” (ML)

Ethel Cain – ‘American Teenager’
This euphoric pop gem from Ethel Cain sits in contrast with her darker, more cinematic sounds, but I still love it. She’s such a sophisticated, altruistic storyteller, something which is perfectly showcased on her debut album Preacher’s Daughter. Everyone needs a bit of Ethel Cain in their lives. (KC)

Nina Keith – ‘Blow Up Yr Life (U Need To)’
A comforting, gentle reminder to let go of negativity and doubt, I love this soundscape from LA-based trans artist, producer and composer Nina Keith. Featuring the vocals of indie pop artist Barrie and composer and musician Qur’an Shaheed,  ‘Blow Up Yr Life (U Need To)’ is a considered, delicate blend of lilting electronics, fragmented voices and crisp production, all of which melt together to create an exquisite, emotive listening experience. “Lately the more I wear the turmoil of my life on my sleeve the more often I find myself in conversations with strangers and loved ones that reach a similar end,” Keith explains about the context of her track. “This song is sort of a small prayer in lieu of words I can never seem to speak in those moments. Divorce your husband, start an onlyfans, borrow friend’s hormones, take them for fun, sell your stuff, buy rare beanie babies with the money, whatever you have to do. There is only so much time left.” Love it! (KC)

Chuck SJ – ‘F2shapeless’ 
Chuck SJ and their full band The Rose Quartz Rebellion played for us supporting pink suits at The Shacklewell Arms last month, and it really was such an honour to host them. Uniting the crowd in a sense of euphoric queer joy, the set reflected on themes of Transness and finding your place in the world with a deep cathartic energy. This track stood out as particularly poignant – just listen to it for yourself and you’ll see what I mean. Truly heart achingly beautiful. (ML)

Anohni – It Must Change
‘It Must Change’, the beautiful first single from ANOHNI’s sixth studio album – a statement that we all should listen to in light of what is happening in the world, but specifically here in the UK when it comes to trans rights. Anohni has released this song under Anohni and the Johnsons, a nod to the origins of her music, the band named after LGBTQ+ rights activist and pioneer Marsha P Johnson. ‘It Must Change’ is a song with hope embedded for a better future. (TW)

Listen to our Pride Playlist below!

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

 

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PLAYLIST: June 2023

The Get In Her Ears team have put together another eclectic mix of indie & alternative tunes, guitar anthems, alt-pop gems 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 playlist at the end of this post.

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

 

Problem Patterns – ‘Letter Of Resignation’
Fresh from supporting electro-punk icons Le Tigre on their Manchester and Glasgow UK tour dates, this is the latest single from GIHE favourites, Belfast Riot Grrrls Problem Patterns. Taken from their upcoming debut album, Blouse Club, which will be released later this year via Alcopop! Records, ‘Letter of Resignation’ celebrates queer joy and ally-ship, which feels especially poignant during Pride month here in the UK. We can’t wait to have the band headline for us again at the Sebright Arms in Hackney on 17th November. Tickets are cheaper in advance, so make sure you grab one from DICE.
(Kate Crudgington)

CLT DRP – ‘Nothing Clever, Just Feelings’
This is the title track from Brighton electro-punk trio CLT DRP’s upcoming second album, which is set for release on 8th September via Venn Records. ‘Nothing Clever, Just Feelings’ is a thumping, primal offering that champions the immediacy and the transitory nature of thoughts and emotions. I am OBSESSED with it, and so are ARRX, who played the track on our recent Soho Radio show during our interview with them. Listen back to that here. (KC)

Straight Girl – ‘Ugly’
I CANNOT WAIT for Leeds multi-talented artist Straight Girl to headline for us at the Shacklewell Arms next Friday 7th July. With their fierce charisma and unique electro-punk soundscapes and sparkling stage presence, I guarantee they’ll deliver a euphoric immersive experience that you won’t be forgetting in a hurry! Support comes from ALT BLK ERA (!) and The Dead Zoo. I can’t stress enough how silly you would be to miss this one. Grab a ticket on DICE now.
(Mari Lane)

ALT BLK ERA – ‘I’m Normally Like This’
Embracing the power of their individuality and refusing to let the opinions of others impact the way they express themselves, I love this single fro genre-defying sister duo ALT BLK ERA. Fuelled by their antagonistic and joyful spirit, it’s a cathartic rage-dance anthem that celebrates the freedom that comes with championing your own creativity in alternative music scenes and beyond. The band will be playing as main support for our GIHE summer gig with STRAIGHT GIRL at The Shacklewell Arms on Friday 7th July! Grab a ticket on DICE now. (KC)

cumgirl8 – ‘gothgirl1’
One for the #GloomyGirls out there! New York four-piece cumgirl8 have shared this dark, sultry new tune. It’s taken from their upcoming EP phantasea pharm, which is set for release on 18th August. The band will be supporting Le Tigre on their Canadian tour dates in July and they’ll be returning to the UK to play Greenman Festival in Wales on 18th August. (KC)

Sweeping Promises – ‘Eraser’
Following their 2020 debut, Hunger For A Way Out, Kansas duo Sweeping Promises have now returned with a new album, Good Living Is Coming For You, set for release today 30th June! Taken from the album, ‘Eraser’ showcases the band’s unique colossal energy and quirky, colourful soundscapes. Of the track, they explain that ‘Eraser’ is “a malevolent creep – an overly ambitious, shadowy force who bears an uncanny resemblance to you. She watches your every move, mirrors your motions, and ultimately uses your voice against you without you ever noticing what she’s done. She’s unchecked ambition, a paranoid girl Friday, an overriding impulse to reflect rather than project. She must be stopped at all costs.” (ML)

Grrrl Gang – ‘Spunky’
Indonesian Riot Grrrls Grrrl Gang have been a rising force in the Southeast Asian music scene since their formation in 2016, and I just love this short sweet blast of empowering, infectious pop-punk. It’s currently an exciting time for the band as their debut full length album, also called Spunky, is due out in September, getting a release with legendary label Kill Rock Stars in the US. (ML)

Girls Like Us – ‘Spoonfed’
London-based grunge/punk trio Girls Like Us recently released their debut EP, ‘Til The Bitter End, which this track ‘Spoonfed’ is lifted from. Their blend of riotous vocals and guitars and their memorable song titles – ‘My Boyfriend Was A Tory (So I Broke Up With Him)’ – make for cathartic, fun listening. (KC)

House Of Women – ‘Hysterical’
‘Hysterical’ is the debut single from London four piece House Of Women, released via their own label. The band have been busy playing live shows in London recently in preparation for their upcoming slot at 2000TREES festival on 7th July. I’m looking forward to hearing more from these four in the future! (KC)

Cable Ties – ‘Thoughts Back’
The latest single from Australian band Cable Ties, ‘Thoughts Back’, is a wonderfully scuzzy slice of post-punk, reflecting on drummer and vocalist Shauna Boyle’s personal experiences with mental illness and how consuming and exhausting it can be. All Her Plans, the new album from Cable Ties, is out now and if you fancy catching them live, they’re headlining the Shacklewell Arms on 25th August. (ML)

Ratboys – ‘It’s Alive’
Not sure how I’ve only just come across Chicago band Ratboys, but they’re new favourites for sure! Their latest single, ‘It’s Alive’, is filled with all the dreamy, lilting hooks and fuzzy allure I could ever need, and Julia Steiner’s vocals are sugar sweet perfection. Ratboy’s upcoming new album, The Window, is set for release on 25th August. (ML)

Divide and Dissolve – ‘Want’
Happy album release day to the inimitable Divide & Dissolve! Their fourth record, Systemic, released via INVADA Records, hosts more of their heavy, sublime sounds that I’ve grown to love over the past few years. Divide and Dissolve’s core message has remained the same throughout their journey: “to make music that honours their ancestors and Indigenous land, to oppose white supremacy, and to work towards a future of Black and Indigenous liberation.” This track ‘Want’ is a hypnotic loop of sound that opens their new record. Listen to Systemic here and keep your eyes peeled for a full review on our website next week! (KC)

CIRCE – ‘Glow (You Always Tell Me I Have This Glow)’
Taken from her upcoming EP, Drawing Wings From The Light, which is set for release on 19th July, Circe’s latest single bristles with a potent anger, explored through her seething-yet-poetic lyricism, atmospheric synths and intriguing use of ASMR-inducing samples. Inspired by “a powerful rage” directed against “the slights and casual misogyny of the music world”, her hushed threat of “I am a hurricane” sees her defiantly reclaim a sense of power and self autonomy in the face of this adversity. (KC)

Yvonne Ambrée – ‘Outtamymouth’
Some great electronic analogue sounds on this track from Brooklyn via Berlin singer-songwriter Yvonne Ambrée. Yvonne details the track: “The song really embraces all the moments when something comes to an end – when something has been said, a decision has been made, a feeling has taken over etc.” I love it. (Tash Walker)

Speakers Corner Quartet ft. Tirzah – ‘Fix’
A couple of weeks ago, I had the total pleasure of seeing Speakers Corner Quarter at Roundhouse for the launch of their album. It was a totally mesmerising show, each track features a different collaborator – ‘Fix’ with Tirzah, but also Kae Tempest, Sampha and so many others joined them on stage. I would strongly recommend you all check out the album and immerse yourself in the delightful sound bath! (TW)

Hera Lind – ‘Hungry Lion’
‘Hungry Lion’ is the latest single from this Icelandic musician, an ode to restoring your inner peace and “feeling whole again” after escaping certain toxicities in life. (TW)

heka – ‘april (away)’
Heka has now signed with Practise Music and this is her first single for the label. Self-proclaimed “butchered folk” – I love that. And the song, which has a deep intimacy and melancholy to it. (TW)

King Hannah – ‘State Trooper’
Two live highlights of mine over the last few months: seeing Bruce Springsteen live in Barcelona, and seeing King Hannah support Kurt Vile at Koko. So, this rendition of one of my favourite Boss songs by the Liverpool band combines the two in a rather beautiful way. It was wonderful to finally see King Hannah live – even more completely spellbinding than I could have ever imagined. (ML)

Hand Habits – ‘The Bust Of Nefertiti’
The latest single from LA based artist Meg Duffy aka Hand Habits, ‘The Bust Of Nefertiti’ is taken from their new EP, Sugar The Bruise – a collection of songs focused on being in the moment, which was written after Duffy had taught a month long songwriting class last summer, in which they discovered a newfound clarity in embracing the unknown. I just really love this track’s driving emotion and cinematic soundscape. (ML)

TERI GENDER BENDER – ‘You Won The Man’
Taken from her upcoming EP, OUTSIDERS, which is set for release on 7th July, this is the latest alt-pop gem from the marvellous Teri Gender Bender. On ‘You Won The Man’, Teri reminds us that “behind every victory lies a poignant tale of sacrifice, struggle, and the profound human experience.” She is a total force when performing live, which she proved on stage supporting The Mars Volta on their UK tour dates earlier this month. (KC)

Girl Ray – ‘Everybody’s Saying That’
Any regular followers of ours will know what a fan I am of London trio Girl Ray, and my fandom has only increased with their latest slew of funk-fuelled singles. This one fizzes with all the swirling disco-inspired energy and danceable allure that we’ve come to know and love, and leaves me super excited for the release of their upcoming album, Prestige, which is out on 4th August via Moshi Moshi. I can’t wait to see them live again for its launch at Rough Trade East that evening, and if you’re keen to dance the night away to more Girl Ray-approved hits, they’re hosting ‘Club Prestige’ – a night of disco hits and beyond – at The George Tavern on 21st July. (ML)

Spinsters – ‘Styrofoam’
Bolton-based newcomers Spinsters have released their debut EP, Love Songs From the Apocalypse, today via The Evening Economies! This track ‘Styrofoam’ is one of five songs that explore the notion of memory, our bodies, joy, fear and technology – aka “what it means to be a messy human animal in chaotic times”. (KC)

Delilah Holliday – ‘Silent Streets’
Lifted from her upcoming EP, Invaluable Vol. 1, which is set for release via One Little Independent Records on 7th July, ‘Silent Streets’ is the latest banger from Delilah Holliday. A former member of punk band Skinny Girl Diet, Delilah’s solo sound has shifted into electronic dance territory, and this track allows her new skills to shine. (KC)

Alex Loveless – ‘Whiplash’
Hackney-based electronic artist Alex Loveless has returned with this alt-pop gem after a break from creating music whilst recovering from long covid. Inspired by palimpsest memories – layers of memories that accumulated as Loveless retraced their steps around London – it’s a slow-burning, lo-fi musing that sees them explore the powerful yet transitory relationships and interactions they have with others. (KC)

Lucy’s Delirium – ‘Mr Tv’
This is the debut single from Montreal alternative rock band Lucy’s Delirium. Their strong DIY ethos and playful, carefree attitude has resulted in the sound of ‘Mr Tv’. They recorded the single in their home studio, and the band describe it as “encapsulating the hypnotizing and obsessive feeling og the relationship between people and technology.” (KC)

MALKA – ‘Matriarch’
Having been a big fan of Scottish artist Tamara Schlesinger aka MALKA ever since she was a guest on our radio show about 6 years ago, I was excited to hear that she has new material. Taken from her upcoming new album, ‘Matriarch’ reflects on trying to balance everything in life whilst finding pride in what you succeed at. Oozing a sparkling, synth-soaked soundscape as Schlesinger’s honey sweet vocals are propelled by uptempo, tribal beats, it offers a beautifully uplifting ode to self empowerment. (ML)

Lizzo – ‘2 Be Loved (Am I Ready)’
I wasn’t at Glastonbury, sadly… But I’ve been lucky enough to see Lizzo before and her immense empowering presence is just one of the most wonderful things in the world. Even just watching the footage of her set from the weekend on iPlayer filled me with so much joy and emotion. Going through a few changes and realisations in my personal life at the moment, seeing the sheer beautiful uplifting energy and fierce spirit of her performing this song (and all the girls and gays crying along) was really just what I needed right now. Thank you Lizzo! (ML)

 

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Five Favourites: Sweeping Promises

Following their 2020 debut, Hunger For A Way Out, Kansas duo Lira Mondal and Caufield Schnug – aka Sweeping Promises – have now returned with a new album, Good Living Is Coming For You, is set for release tomorrow.

Taken from the album, latest single ‘Eraser’ showcases the band’s unique colossal energy and quirky, colourful soundscapes. Of the track, they explain that ‘Eraser’ is “a malevolent creep – an overly ambitious, shadowy force who bears an uncanny resemblance to you. She watches your every move, mirrors your motions, and ultimately uses your voice against you without you ever noticing what she’s done. She’s unchecked ambition, a paranoid girl Friday, an overriding impulse to reflect rather than project. She must be stopped at all costs.”

We think one of the best ways to get to know an artist is by asking what music inspires them. So, to celebrate the release of Good Living Is Coming For You, we caught up with Lira and Caufield to ask about the music that has inspired them the most. So, read about their five favourite albums, and make sure you check out the album, and watch the video for ‘Eraser‘ below! 

Caufield’s Picks:

Robert Ashley – Private Parts
One of the albums that has deeply marked my adult life! “A picnic of sorts.” Play this one if you think ambient suffers from a lack-of-personality problem. I will say I am intensely drawn to the second part, ‘The Backyard’, as the raga and Blue Gene Tyranny’s swirly soundscape lock into a groove, and Ashley’s midwestern observations bend abstractly into a kind of suburban noir. John Cheever, meet John Cage! The album’s sly and off-centre thought complex is punk to me. The low voice mix is an editorial red herring, directing the ear towards a narrative that is only ever elliptical and half-understood. The idea of cinema is as suggestive here as the idea of opera. Sumptuous intermedia!

Poison Girlfriend – Melting Moment (1992, re-press Sad Disco)
A new-to-me classic; a triphop phantasmagoria, envisioned by DJ digi-auteur nOrikO. I would recommend visiting the website, as this album’s milieu will be made clear. A first vinyl press arrives imminently via Japanese label Sad Disco (message to universe: the whole PGF catalogue should be pressed!). Anyway, this album is an icy piece of ambient house as well as a particularly form-pushing exemplar of early ’90s Japanese CD-R subculture. Brittle, dithered digital production, awesome spatialisation, surprising arrangements. I like nOrikO’s exploratory vocal delivery (English-speaking on this record), which is dispassionate yet intimate, with an air of danger. I read the characterology of her vocal as being like a femme fatale delivering a doomed-romantic message. In this album, feelings of love and breakdown pixelate into a shape auguring the early internet, a toxic desiring machine: enthralling, lonely, sophisticated.

Optic Sink – Glass Blocks (Feel It, 2023 – forthcoming)
Having left our jobs in 2021, Lira and I run a recording studio out of our vaulted-roof house in Kansas, which at times comes to resemble, for better or worse, an indie music b’n’b. In this capacity, we made the Optic Sink record so I’ve heard it, even though it’s not officially out yet. Perks of the trade, people! Can’t wait for this album to land on Feel It; Lira and I feel a twinge of pride, as we recall the darkened days of the snowstorm (coldwave manifest), hours of party-working in Lawrence, KS, menu-diving around the surrealistic Eventide H3000, on all sides a janky wall of analog synths! Our friends from Memphis, Ben, Keith, and Natalie comprise this band, electrified brainiacs all, and rocknroll expats, which is sympathetic. Travelling to a city near you, god willing!


Lira’s Picks:

Pozi – Smiling Pools (2023)
I was introduced to Pozi via their 176 EP in 2020, and I’ve been captivated ever since. Smiling Pools takes all the excellence of their previous releases and launches it into spectacular new heights with arrangements that are at once skeletal and dense, inviting and dangerous, haunted and hypnotic and hooky. I love how unfettered they sound, yet still so controlled: tightly coiled springs, ready to explode at the slightest provocation. One of the things I love about this band is the vocal interplay between Rosa Brook, Tom Jones, and Toby Burroughs (beautifully demonstrated in the unsettling call-and-response on ‘Through The Door’). ‘Failing’ and ’24 Deliveru’ get the repeat-button treatment a lot. One of the best albums of 2023, and also a really great album to bake a cake to late at night (speaking from experience).

Yukihiro Takahashi – What, Me Worry?
There are some albums I gravitate towards during certain seasons (Mask by Bauhaus in the bare-branched winter, Força Bruta by Jorge Ben for balmy summer evenings), but What, Me Worry? is perfect year-round, no matter the time or season. There’s a song for every moment; ‘It’s Gonna Work Out’ was made to soundtrack zipping around neon-lit highways on a warm July night; ‘All You’ve Got to Do’ is as bright and sparkly as a dewy spring morning. And then there’s ‘Disposable Love’ – “The first time I saw you, I knew it was going to happen” – the first time I heard that chorus, it made me shiver. A whole world of regret and desire contained in those thirteen portentous words! Up to that point, the song is already on the verge of buckling under the weight of its yearning, but still manages to play it cool with bouncy rhythms and fluttering, flute-like synth flourishes. And then that chorus lands, clawing through the mists of all that cool remove…I’m getting goosebumps just thinking about it now. Yukihiro Takahashi’s music is so ambitious and sophisticated; his is an ecstatic strain of pop that twists and turns in ways that are thrilling and kinetic and intuitive.


Massive thanks to Lira and Caufield for sharing their Five Favourites with us!

Good Living Is Coming For You, the new album from Sweeping Promises, is out tomorrow 30th June via Sub Pop. Listen to quirky new single ‘Eraser’ here:

Photo Credit: Shawn Brackbill

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