LISTEN: BAXTR – ‘Feathers’

Following their uplifting debut offering ‘Bloom’, London alt-pop trio BAXTR are back with a catchy brand new single.

‘Feathers’ is a sunny slice of pop-punk filled with a fuzzy contagious spirit and explosive fresh energy. An empowering anthem celebrating self-love and each of our own unique beauty, it’s inspired by the band’s own journey with self image, acceptance and expression of sexuality. The band add:

““Hell hath no fury like a woman who refuses superficial, unrealistic, heteronormative beauty ideals constructed by a patriarchal society and perpetuated by systemic sexism and consumerism. Show… your… FEATHERS!”

Listen to ‘Feathers’ now:

 

Mari Lane 
@marimindles

Track Of The Day: Fightmilk – ‘If You Had A Sister’

With their upcoming new album set for release early next year, and following last single ‘I’m Starting To Think You Don’t Even Want To Go To Space’, GIHE faves and previous headliners for us at The Finsbury Fightmilk have now shared a brand new offering.

Perhaps more sombre in tone than previous releases, ‘If You Had A Sister’ oozes a twinkling, swirling melancholy and heartfelt lyricism whilst losing none of the band’s trademark catchy, emo-tinged indie-pop goodness. Propelled by the gritty, raw emotion of front person Lily’s yearning vocals alongside scuzzy hooks and perfectly interwoven musical layers, it offers a shimmering reflection on life and loss; showcasing a band that are continuously refining their sound and, in the process, consistently continuing to win my heart.

Of the track, the band explain:

“It’s a bit slower and quieter than the fast guitar pop of the last album, and it’s about all kinds of dark things – but if there was ever a time for songs you can do ominous slow dancing to, it’s 2020.”

 

‘If You Had A Sister’ is out now via Reckless Yes.

Mari Lane
@marimindles

Track Of The Day: Tolü Makay – ‘Don’t Let Go’

An understated, beautifully soothing listen that encourages listeners to embrace hope, Tolü Makay has shared her latest single ‘Don’t Let Go’. The Nigerian-born, Ireland-based artist gently reassures her listeners to let go of their fears through her smooth vocals, tender lyricism and jazz inspired instrumentation.

Inspired by the likes of Erykah Badu, Nina Simone, Amy Winehouse, Asa and Labrinth, Makay first realised her talent for singing in church, and it’s a talent that continued to blossom as she embraced writing songs for herself. ‘Don’t Let Go’ sees her practising self compassion whilst navigating her “emotional transition from fear to hope.”

The track’s accompanying video was shot and directed by Fiona-Louise Ntidendereza on 16mm film, and shows Makay during some of her most relaxed moments. The visuals reflect Makay’s message of empowerment and self belief, providing a warm and bright insight in to the sounds on her forthcoming debut album.

Listen to ‘Don’t Let Go’ below and follow Tolü Makay on Spotify, Facebook and bandcamp

Kate Crudgington
@KCBobCut

Track Of The Day: HANYA – ‘Texas’

Having charmed us on more than one occasion playing for us live, and with acclaim from the likes of BBC 6Music’s Steve LaMacq and The Quietus, Brighton band HANYA return with a beautiful new single.

Propelled by a dreamy haze, ‘Texas’ flows with twinkling hooks and the soaring, effervescent vocals of front person Heather Sheret. With shades of the lush surf-pop of Real Estate or Best Coast, it’s a shimmering slice of exquisite indie-pop oozing a blissful tranquility and spellbinding ethereal splendour. The perfect soundtrack to soothe these post-summer blues. Of the track, the band explain:

“‘Texas’ was entirely written and recorded during lockdown, experimenting with working remotely as a group. The track explores the startings of a relationship – the head-over-heels uncertainty, the self-doubt and the desire to know each other entirely.”

 

‘Texas’ is out now. Listen here.

Mari Lane
@marimindles

Photo Credit: Jessie Morgan