PLAYLIST: June 2024

The Get In Her Ears team have put together another mix of feminist punk, queer anthems, alternative & shoegaze sounds, eclectic electronic tracks, indie-folk musings, and alt-pop tunes 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.

 

ARXX – ‘Good Boy’
Wow, it seems like it’s impossible for total faves ARXX not to write a song that gets instantly lodged in your brain and demands listen upon listen; each listen making you feel more and more uplifted. I just can’t get enough of latest single ‘Good Boy’s thumping beats and anthemic energy. They describe this track as their “big gay anthem… A little bit saucy, a little bit cheeky and a lot of fun!” As well as listening to the track multiple times, you should also watch the video – the dogs are cute, Hanni and Clara are cute, it’s a whole lot of cute.
(Mari Lane – Managing Editor)

SASAMI – ‘Honeycrash’
I was late to the SASAMI party, first discovering her in 2022 when she released her genre-blending metal-folk album, SQUEEZE. ‘Honeycrash’ is her first piece of new music since then, and it’s a glorious, full-bodied, passionate anthem about the complexities of love and relationships. SASAMI explains: “I wanted to write a song with all the drama of a 19th century classical opera, but with the patience and understanding of someone in therapy in 2024,” and on ‘Honeycrash’ she has achieved exactly that.
(Kate Crudgington – Features Editor)

Seraphina Simone – ‘Wild’
This is the title track from Seraphina Simone’s shimmering new EP. ‘Wild’ is Seraphina’s statement of rage, shifting self-worth, grief and sadness; all beautifully polished into a bright collection of alt-pop gems. (KC)

Æ MAK – ‘Low Down’
Lifted from her new EP, ABC SIDE Baby, this single from Irish art-pop artist Æ MAK is about “hitting rock bottom after a break-up, almost basking in it, and finding your power again”. I love this phoenix-rising-from-the-ashes sentiment, set to an infectiously upbeat mix of heady synths and dancing beats. (KC)

SOPHIE – ‘Reason Why’ (ft. Kim Petras and BC Kingdom)
It’s fair to say I got a little emotional hearing that a new album from legendary producer and trans pioneer SOPHIE was being posthumously released. The first single to be shared from it, ‘Reason Why’ features Kim Petras and BC Kingdom and offers a euphoric slice of queer electro-pop. Of the decision to release her music now, SOPHIE’s family have shared a statement explaining: “It feels only right to share with the world the music she hoped to release, in the belief that we can all connect with her in this, the form she loved most… Sophie gave all of herself to her music. It’s here that she can always be found.” SOPHIE, the self-titled final album, is due for release on 27th September via Transgressive and Future Classic. Pre-order here. (ML)

Chelsea Wolfe – ‘House Of Self Undoing’ (Boy Harsher Remix)
I am obsessed with this Boy Harsher remix of one of my favourite Chelsea Wolfe tracks. They’ve kept the melancholy undertones of the original, but somehow managed to transform it into an hazy, uplifting rush of synths, beats and hushed vocals. (KC)

Roller Derby – ‘Silver Jet’
Following recent single ‘Dreams’, Hamburg duo Roller Derby are back to charm our ears with the immersive sounds of ‘Silver Jet’. As Philine Meyer’s distinctive celestial vocals soar throughout, the song sparkles with anticipation for the new beginning that we’ve been flying towards throughout the track. A stirring meditation on enduring challenges, both on a personal and collective level. (ML)

Midwife – ‘Killdozer’
Taken from her upcoming album, No Depression In Heaven, this beautiful single from Midwife is “an ode to a city lost in the aftermath of gentrification.” ‘Killdozer’ centers around the story of Marvin Heemeyer, a muffler repair shop owner who went on a demolition spree in a modified bulldozer, before taking his own life in a small Colorado town in 2004. It always impresses me how Midwife transforms the darkest of moments into beautiful, shoegazey lullabies like this. I’m looking forward to hearing her new album in full. (KC)

Julia-Sophie – ‘telephone’
Balancing all-encompassing romantic infatuation alongside her melancholic and lonely impulses, this vibrant track from Julia-Sophie is a total headrush. ‘telephone’ is taken from her upcoming debut solo album, forgive too slow, which is set for release on 26th July via Brooklyn label Ba Da Bing Records. Julia-Sophie offers this comment about her new record: “My journey with music has been weird and long. I think people assumed that the music I made was exactly what I intended to make, when it’s always just been me trying to figure it out. Being a solo artist has allowed me to really find myself and show who I am in all my messy states.” We fully support that! (KC)

mayday mae! – ‘girls into music’
California-based, queer alt-pop artist mayday mae! penned this fun track as an ode to all the queer films, music and art that came before her. ‘girls into music’ is taken from her excellently titled EP, my post-desert hearts renaissance. (KC)

Taylor Swift – ‘I Can Do It With a Broken Heart’
I will NEVER stop talking about Taylor Swift and The Eras Tour. I was lucky enough to see the show in both Lisbon and London and I am still in AWE of what she does. The atmosphere was electric and her fans were so fun, kind and willing to indulge in a level of shared euphoria that I have never seen or felt at a stadium gig before. What a privilege to be a part of that. Here’s to Rachel, Vicky and Mel who were screaming and crying the whole way through with me. (KC)

Beauty Sleep – ‘Big Sky’
The new single from Derry duo Beauty Sleep, ‘Big Sky’ is inspired by a fun weekend at Primavera festival. Oozing an infectious glistening energy and fizzing jangly hooks, it’s a perfectly danceable euphoric summer anthem. (ML)

Saint Sappho – ‘Glory Box’
With Portishead’s Dummy being my most favourite album of all time – having grown up listening to my dad’s cassette recording of the album on so many car journeys, and then later as a teen immersing myself in its dark cathartic splendour – I was excited to hear Saint Sappho’s rendition of seminal track ‘Glory Box’. Whilst maintaining the majestic allure of the original, it oozes an added musically rich sense of grandeur and raw energy. Of their decision to cover the track, the duo explain: “We both love the original song and thought it’d be an interesting one to cover and experiment with putting our own sound into it. We added some orchestral elements, which we thought would work well in this song and love to make a track really dramatic.” (ML)

Naomi in Blue – ‘Skin’
Taken from her recent EP, It Takes Time, this is a candid and poignant rumination from singer-songwriter Naomi in Blue. A considered exploration of emotion and identity, ‘Skin’ and the other tracks that form her new record are equally as raw and revealing. Definitely make the time to listen to it in full. (KC)

Hinako Omori – ‘stillness, softness’ (kloxii li remix)
Hinako Omori has shared this remix of her track ‘stillness, softness’ which is taken from the “extended dream transition” version of her album of the same name. It’s remixed by Kloxii Li, who is a friend and collaborator of Hinako. I love the way they’ve made this gentle track sound so shadowy. (KC)

Yaz Leon ft. BUKKY – ‘4th Wall’
A great collaboration here between experimental R&B artist Yaz Leon and genre-defying artist BUKKY – who was a guest on our Soho Radio show a few months back. ‘4th Wall’ is taken from Yaz’s upcoming EP, Bleach. Yaz describes this song as “kind of a ‘hater’ and a “help I’m spiralling” song” about the lack of solidarity she’s experienced in different social spaces. She also says “it’s a bit of a bummer, but at least we made the beat fun! – which I respect! (KC)

Fraulein – ‘In The Living Room’
This is my favourite track from Fraulein’s recent mini-album, Sink Or Swim. The perfect mix of loud and quiet; the skilled grunge duo consistently deliver swirling alternative anthems that command the senses. Definitely check their record out. It’s a GIHE team fave at the moment. (KC)

LIINES – ‘Holding On’
The new single from Manchester post-punks LIINES, ‘Holding On’ is the band’s first new music since 2021. Showcasing the band’s ability to create brooding sonic explosions, lyrically it draws on themes of hope and desperation, and I just love its frenetic sense of urgency and the raw passion of Zoe McVeigh’s soaring vocals. (ML)

Problem Patterns – ‘I Think You Should Leave’
An ode to their hometown of Belfast, this is the brand new single from GIHE faves and punk icons Problem Patterns. Inspired by a disparaging comment a journalist made to the band when speaking about Northern Ireland, the track is a riotous “love letter” to the place that raised them as individuals and as a band. “Everybody leaves and nothing changes / I’ll stay here and create the spaces” they chant in the chorus, which becomes more powerful each time it’s repeated. The GIHE team love everything that Problem Patterns stand for, and we were lucky enough to visit them in their hometown back in 2022 for the Women’s Work Showcase at the Oh Yeah Music Centre. The Belfast hospitality was beautiful – we think you should all go! (KC)

Belmondo – ‘Getting Closer’
Lifted from their excellently titled EP, The Blessed & The Evil, released via Silent Cult, I love this heavy, swirling anthem from Brighton-based alt-rock band Belmondo. The band will be playing live at venues in Glasgow, Manchester and Birmingham this September, and they’ll be performing at the Hope & Anchor in Islington, London on 5th September too. (KC)

Brat Coven – ‘Favourite Crime’
The latest single from Glasgow ‘doom-punk’ band Brat Coven , ‘Favourite Crime’ reflects on predatory age-gap relationships with a fierce, raging passion. Propelled by a seething energy, a captivating, haunting soundscape is created. Of the track, the band explain: “We wrote this song for ourselves, for our younger selves, for anyone whose story is told by this song. Sexual abuse and grooming is rampant, particularly in the music industry and we think it’s incredibly important to use our voices to speak out and condemn predatory men.” (ML)

SNM – ‘Borne Of My Rib’
Loving this angst-ridden single from London-based Grunge-rock newcomers SNM. They’ve only released a handful of tracks so far, but the band are gearing up for a busy year of live shows and writing together, so keep your eyes peeled for more from them soon. (KC)

Strange New Places – ‘Foreign Cities’
I really enjoyed reading the bio of Belfast-based band Strange New Places when their email dropped into my inbox earlier this month. They describe themselves as “right-on radicals with low self-esteem; a band where queerness and neurodivergence intersect, and intersect hard. Sometimes they intersect in fun and interesting ways and other times they intersect in strange and annoying ways. Each member looks like they’re in a different band, and sometimes they sound like it too. Regardless, they’ve stuck together, and they have some music to play for you.” This track ‘Foreign Cities’ is a perfect example of all these wonderful traits; playful, quirky and bittersweet. (KC)

Hot Wife – ‘Buffy Summers’
The debut single from South London band Hot Wife has dropped into my life at the perfect time! I am currently on my first ever watch of Buffy The Vampire Slayer – I’m on season 4 – and I am loving it. I’m thrilled that I can finally join in on all the fandom. Hot Wife describe this track as “a crunchy-grunge ballad, and a reminder that when relationships are disappointing, you can always go out there and seek revenge by kissing kick-ass people.” A sentiment we should all be living by. (KC)

Alien Chicks – ‘Qwerty’
Another unpredictable and infectious post-punk anthem from Brixton trio Alien Chicks, featured on their upcoming debut EP, Indulging The Mobs, set for release on 18th July via Hideous Mink Records. It’s cliché to say, but they truly are a band who are best appreciated live. They’ll be headlining Moth Club in East London on 5th July. Grab a ticket and go an experience their frenzied live set in the flesh. (KC)

Fightmilk – ‘Summer Bodies’
A perfectly raging summer anthem, ‘Summer Bodies’ – the new single from pop-punk faves Fightmilk – has been a live favourite for some time, so I’m very happy that it’s now properly out in the world. Raging against patriarchal society’s ridiculous and ever-changing expectations of women’s bodies and the futile quest to ‘be sexy’, it offers a fierce ode to self-love in the face of the onslaught of damaging beauty standards that we are constantly bombarded with. Angsty and uplifting in equal measure, it’s an instantly catchy singalong anthem, combining the band’s trademark tongue-in-cheek wit with a swirling energy and gritty raw emotion. So, this summer, wear whatever you makes you feel comfortable, pay no mind to the incessant Instagram ads about fad diets or corrective procedures, and know that you look great – whatever size, age or gender you may be. (ML)

Okay, Bye – ‘The Fun Is Over’
Pastel-punk duo Okay, Bye released their debut album earlier this month, and this is the excellently titled eponymous track. If you like the sound of ‘The Fun Is Over’, definitely give the whole record a spin. (KC)

Annie Taylor – ‘In Your Head’
Recorded during a break on their tour in Leipzig, Annie Taylor’s latest single ‘In Your Head’ is a swirling indie-grunge anthem. The band are set to tour Europe in December this year, and they’ll be stopping in London at The Shacklewell Arms in Dalston on 3rd December too. (KC)

PostLast – ‘Scavenge’
This is the brand new single from Irish indie-pop duo PostLast, out now via VETA Records. ‘Scavenge’ is all about that “unspoken connection” between two people that can “quieten all of the noise, anxiety and pressure you might be feeling internally” which is a sentiment I love. (KC)

Lunar Vacation – ‘Set The Stage’
Having just announced the upcoming release of a new album this autumn, following one of my most-listened to of the last few years – 2021’s Inside Every Fig is A Dead Wasp – Lunar Vacation have now shared this dreamy new single. The first and last song that vocalist and guitarist Gep Repasky has ever sent to the person that they’d written it about, ‘Set The Stage’ ripples with a swirling anthemic splendour as a glistening emotion oozes from the immersive shimmering soundscape. Everything Matter, Everything’s Fire, the new album from Lunar Vacation, is set for release on 13th September via Keeled Scales. (ML)

Sequela – ‘Zavander’
I’m glad that I found this track from Portland-based band Sequela in my inbox. Non-binary front person Sequela explains that ‘Zavander’ “is in part about my experience of navigating the isolation and dynamism of adolescence in the body of a teenage girl who was not made for her world.” Along with their bandmates, Sequela manages to transform these feelings of unease into a lush indie-shoegaze anthem. (KC)

Static Lives – ‘Social Anxiety’
Having been blown away by Sheffield’s self-proclaimed ‘dance-rock-alt-band’ Static Lives at Cro Cro Land earlier this year, I’ve been enjoying dancing and rocking to latest single ‘Social Anxiety’. Propelled by a fierce energy, it races with catchy hooks and front woman Lori’s impassioned vocal drive. (ML)

Th’Sheridans – ‘Dancing In The Dark’
A favourite band covering an absolute favourite by my absolute favourite; so many faves all in one. I just cannot stop listening to Th’ Sheridan’s rendition of Bruce Springsteen’s infamous anthem ‘Dancing In The Dark’ right now; I love the gritty emotion oozing from Adam’s vocals alongside the racing, fizzing hooks . Of the track, the band say of their choice to cover this song – “It carries a cavernous depth of sentiment: everyday monotony, feelings you just can’t seem to put anywhere, oppressive levels of aesthetic self-assessment, and most freeingly, the belief that other ways of being are possible.” Th’ Sheridans recorded this cover especially for a wonderful new podcast, Because The Boss Belongs To Us, which sees Holly Casio and Jesse Lawson put forward the case that Bruce Springsteen is in fact a queer icon. I wholeheartedly agree. Oh, and I just saw him in Madrid and he was as incredible as ever – played for 3 hours non-stop, and I was crying happy, overwhelmed tears pretty much the whole time. (ML)

Spring Major – ‘A Varsity Play For The Dock’
I’ve loved Spring Major a lot since first coming across them last year, but now – since seeing them play for us at our dreamy gig at The Finsbury last Friday, supporting Felicette with Schande and Caleb Nichols – I would consider myself a fully-fledged mega fan. Latest single ‘A Varsity Play For The Dock’ perfectly captures how the band’s swirling energy and jangly melodies come together to create impassioned and instantly uplifting emo-tinged anthems. (ML)

The Calamatix – ‘Love, Lies and Alibis’
California’s The Calamatix have just announced the release of their upcoming debut album, as they’ve shared a catchy new single. Combining elements of old school ska with Jamaican rock-steady, as well as a fresh contemporary edge, ‘Love, Lies and Alibis’ bounces with a vibrant energy as buoyant beats race alongside the smooth, soulful vocals. It took me back to being sixteen, skanking round the living room before heading out to see local ska-punk bands at Bedford’s Esquires; a perfectly nostalgic, joy-inducing accompaniment to heady summer evenings. The self-titled debut album from The Calamatix is set for release on 20th September via Hellcat Records. (ML)

Dolly Parton – ‘Dumb Blonde’
A bit of Dolly here to remind you that we’ll be hosting a night of queer country fun on 19th July at Sebright Arms. Headlining will be the world’s premiere Dolly Parton tribute band The Dumb Blondes, who are quite the super group – featuring members of Fightmilk, Panic Pocket, Yakkie and Charley Stone. Support comes from cowboi crushes Trouble Wanted and legendary Margate duo pink suits, in their country guise. It’s going to be epic – so, don your daisy dukes and come on down for a rootin’, tootin’ good time! Well over half the tickets have already been snapped up, so you better nab yours quick – on Dice now. (ML)

 

Get In Her EarsLeave a comment

LISTEN: GIHE on Soho Radio with Rats-Tails (27.05.24)

Tash and Kate were back on Soho Radio playing loads of new music from some of their favourite female, non-binary and LGBTQIA+ artists. Mari offered some of her “musical musings” too. Artists featured on the eclectic playlist included Jenny Moore & F*Choir, AVR, Softcult, Schande, Brimheim, R.Aggs, NikNak & AGAAMA, adults, Rubie, Brennan Wedl and more.

Courtney from South London dream-rock band Rats-Tails also joined them in the studio to talk about the band’s latest single ‘Flowers’ and how they shot and created the animated video that accompanies the track. Courtney also spoke about Rats-Tails recent performance supporting HAVVK at The Shacklewell Arms for the March edition of our Get In Her Ears gigs, her band mates mutual love of artists like David Bowie and The Cure, as well as sharing Rats-Tails upcoming gig dates in London and Bristol.

Listen to the show below:

 

We’ll be back on Soho Radio on Monday 24th June from 12-2pm
 Make sure you tune in via www.sohoradiolondon.com

Tracklist
Le Tigre – Hot Topic
Jenny Moore ft. F​*​Choir – Ceasefire (You Cannot Stop the Sun)
Æ Mak – Let’s Do It
AVR – Confirm Humanity
Softcult – Heaven
Fishwyfe – Get Out
Brimheim – Into The Ooze
Felix Jaehn & Jasmine Thompson – Without You
Gigi Williams – Boulder
cumgirl8 – quite like love
Dermabrasion – Grim Sister
Yinká – Smoke
Naima Adams – Fragile
Coolgirl – Marked Walk
Jessica Pratt – Nowhere It Was
Rosie P – You
Rats-Tails – Flowers
**Interview with Courtney from Rats-Tails**
Pem – Awe
Tom Rasmussen – Dysphoria
Rubie – To Change
R.Aggs – Welcoming The Waves
NikNak ft. AGAAMA – Pandora’s Box
Schande – We’re Not Twins
Brennan Wedl – Scorpio
adults – Trouble
Avril Lavigne – He Wasn’t

Kate CrudgingtonLeave a comment

LISTEN: GIHE on Soho Radio with BUKKY (29.04.24)

Tash and Kate were back on Soho Radio playing loads of new music from some of their favourite female, non-binary and LGBTQIA+ artists. Mari offered some of her “musical musings” too. Artists featured on the eclectic playlist included BISHI, Fraulein, Romy, Planningtorock, Elsa Hewitt, ME REX, BCOS RSNS, Wisp, Glixen, Raelle, Amaroun, King Hannah and more.

Tash spoke to artist & activist Stav Bee about the upcoming Dyke March, which is returning to London for the first time since 2013. The march will take place on Saturday 22nd June. There will also be a fundraiser cabaret & party event at The Divine in East London on 11th May to help raise money for the march.

Nigerian/Irish artist BUKKY also came into the studio to chat about their brand new video for their track ‘Heartburn‘, what inspired their debut EP, Location 419, and how their sound and performance has developed over time as they have evolved on both a personal and a creative level.

Listen to the show below:

We’ll be back on Soho Radio on Monday 27th May from 12-2pm
 Make sure you tune in via www.sohoradiolondon.com

Tracklist
BISHI – Let My Country Awake (Hannah Holland Remix)
John Glacier, Vegyn – In the Front
Chastity Belt – Laugh
Fraulein – Pruning
Venus In Noise – What I Want
Planningtorock, ionnalee – Planningtokeeptheinnocenceofsound
**Interview with Stav Bee about Dyke March**
Ladytron – Playgirl
Kynsy – Money
Wisp – Enough For You
Magic Island – My Body Lies
Pitou – Helium
BUKKY – Heartburn
**Interview with BUKKY**
Raelle – Falling
Amaroun – S.A.D
Wife Patrol – Equinox
Romy – Did I (Peaches Remix)
Elsa Hewitt – Legend
ME REX – Goodbye Forever
King Hannah – Davey Says
MOTHERCANYOUHEARME – Come Round
BCOS RSNS – Turn It Off
Glixen – Lust
Chelsea Wolfe – Tunnel Lights
Eville – Leech

Kate CrudgingtonLeave a comment

PLAYLIST: March 2024

The Get In Her Ears team have put together another eclectic mix of alt pop tunes, alternative & shoegaze anthems, unusual electronic sounds, and indie & folk musings 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.

ARXX – ‘Crying In The Carwash’
The latest single from Brighton duo ARXX, ‘Crying In The Carwash’ is a celebration of when the duo found out they were supporting one of their musical heroes, Muna, and the happy tears that followed. Oozing tonnes of synth-driven anthemic energy and an emotion-strewn uplifting power, it’s impossible to listen to it and not feel all the feels. It may be their poppiest track yet, and that’s no bad thing. We love ARXX so much and so incredibly happy to see them doing so well and living their dreams. They’re off on tour next month supporting American artist Fletcher, and we know that Hanni has recently had a polyp removed from their throat, so we’re wishing them all the best vibes and quick recovery.
(Mari Lane – Co-Founder & Managing Editor)

Tiiva – ‘Tornados’
I love this euphoric anthem from GIHE fave Tiiva. Full of sweeping melodies, jagged synths and soaring vocals, Tiiva explains “‘Tornados’ is about possibility and hope through hedonism and thinking about the different directions you can take. It’s inspired from spiritual ideals of using intuition instead of influence, listening to primal voices and leaning into self trust and belief to keep going when things are difficult or confusing in life.”
(Kate Crudgington – Co-Founder & Features Editor)

Circe – ‘Blue Love’
I am OBSESSED with this song from dark-pop artist and GIHE fave Circe. ‘Blue Love’ is so romantic, so melancholic, so candid, so sultry; it’s a BIG FEELINGS pop anthem. Circe described it as “Karen O produced by The Cure during their Disintegration era” and I wholeheartedly agree. ‘Blue Love’ is all about being love bombed and dealing with fuckboys, swirling in the ashes of disappointment and rising from them in defiance. I can’t get enough of it. (KC)

Pink Milk – ‘You Will Follow Me to Hell’
A gorgeous piece of goth-rock-electronica from Swedish act Pink Milk here. It’s taken from their excellent new album, Night On Earth, which is inspired by dystopian science fiction fantasies and marks a heavier, darker new era in sound for the band. So gloomy, so sultry, I love it. (KC)

Wisp – ‘Enough For You’
I’ve been soaking up the lush shoegaze sounds of 19 year-old San Francisco-based musician Wisp for a little while now. This single is lifted from her upcoming debut EP, Pandora, which is due on 5th April. Inspired by feelings of self-loathing and false perceptions of ones self, ‘Enough For You’ is another mesmerising blend of her hushed vocals, heavy riffs and driving beats. (KC)

Fräulein – ‘Feels Like Flying’ (Day and Night)
Ahead of the release of their debut mini album in June, GIHE faves Fräulein have released a pair of sister singles, the opening and closing tracks of the collection. With the ‘Day’ version of ‘Feels Like Flying’, the duo express all the swirling excitement and fierce emotions that can come with being in love, showcasing their trademark gritty energy and the immense soaring splendour of Joni’s vocals. The ‘Night’ version, on the other hand, offering a more melancholy reflection as twinkling hooks and subdued beats accompany a more delicate side to Joni’s heartfelt lyricism. Fräulein really are one of the most exciting bands on the scene at the moment, and it’s so wonderful to follow their journey as they go from strength to strength; continuing to hone their sound, not afraid to experiment whilst maintaining their distinctive fierce allure, as these two tracks side-by-side perfectly illustrate. Sink Or Swim, the debut mini album from Fräulein, is out on 14th June via Submarine Cat Records. (ML)

Pixie Cut Rhythm Orchestra – ‘Problem Child’
This is the latest sigle from Dublin-based alt-shoegazers Pixie Cut Rhythm Orchestra, released via Anon Records. I’m always so impressed by vocalist & guitarist Sarah Deegan’s observational lyrics and her clear voice, which genuinely took my breath away the first time I heard it live when the band headlined our GIHE gig at The Shacklewell Arms last in October last year. PCRO are currently working on their debut album, which I look forward to hearing in the near future. (KC)

Fresh – ‘Merch Girl’
Ahead of the release of a new EP next month, London indie-pop legends have now shared the title track. Fizzing with all the jangly hooks that we’ve come to know and love from the band, ‘Merch Girl’ reflects on the struggle that women can face to get to where they want to be within the music industry as it builds with a swirling, shimmering energy. Of the track, vocalist Kathryn Woods explains: “It’s a bit tongue-in-cheek, drawing from clichés of the wallflower, the sidekick, but ultimately it’s empowering and a reflection on the ways that we come into our own as women artists.” Merch Girl, the upcoming new EP from Fresh, is out 19th April via Specialist Subject. (ML)

Gouge Away – ‘Spaced Out’
If you want a dose of dynamic, commanding noise led by a knockout lead vocal – look no further than Gouge Away. ‘Spaced Out’ is one of many antagonistic, impressive anthems on their most recent album, Deep Sage, a record which I have been furiously spinning since it was released earlier this month. (KC)

Pageant Mum – ‘All My Life’
An absolute rager from Bolton based teenagers Pageant Mum here! Izzy Ingham’s powerful vocals soar over the band’s frenzied beats and heavy riffs, providing a cathartic rush of angst and a “plea to all of us here together on a divided rock” to unite against apathy. (KC)

The Menstrual Cramps – ‘Class War’
The latest single from some of our favourite punks, Bristol’s The Menstrual Cramps, ‘Class War’ offers a scathing commentary on the current state of British society as seething hooks are blasted out with a raging energy. A fierce, rallying cry, inciting us to join a union and support workers’ rights, it showcases the band’s immense impassioned drive and ferocious spirit. Of the track, front person Emilia comments: “Women’s rights are workers rights. Always support strikers, and never cross a picket line!” Ahead of their set at Manchester Punk Festival this week, this track cements The Menstrual Cramps as one of the most important bands around at the moment; consistently able to create a perfect balance of explosive, cathartic rage, alongside an empowering sense of unity. To celebrate the single’s release, The Menstrual Cramps have collaborated with Courier Brewing Company to bring out their very own pale ale – punk and beer, two of our favourite things! And 50p per pint will be donated to vital charity akt. (ML)

pink suits – ‘Are You Gay Yet?’
Ahead of the release of their new album next month, Margate duo pink suits have shared fierce new single, ‘Are You Gay Yet?’ Reflecting on numerous interactions that Lennie’s had throughout their life when people have questioned or confronted them about their sexuality, it’s a seething celebration of queerness delivered with the raw, fierce energy we’ve come to know and love from the band. Lennie explains: “This song was us wanting to be aggressively confident in being noticeably gay. A reclamation of many moments like this when I wanted to yell, ‘Am I gay yet? Fuck yes!’ To tell everyone that they need to get over this shit already. People are gay. I am gay. We are gay. You might be gay too… and that is ok.” Dystopian Hellscape, the new album from pink suits, is out on 1st April. They’re out on tour at the moment, and will be stopping by at Cro Cro Land at Stanley Arts in Norwood on 13th April – we’ll be there DJing, and can’t wait for the epic line-up of faves including Fraulein, Fightmilk, Dogviolet, Whitelands and lots more. Hopefully see you there! (ML)

BCOS RSNS – ‘(First On At The) Buffalo Bar’
Having always hung out with bands, but only ever fantasised about being in one, London scene queen Abi Brady has now made that dream a reality with new band BCOS RSNS. Ahead of the release of their debut album in May, they’ve now shared the first taste of what to expect. Reflecting on the somewhat depressing reality of the large number of music venues that are closing, and the accompanying existential anxiety, it’s an instant indie earworm. Propelled by uptempo beats, fuzzy hooks jangle throughout as tales of London nightlife are recounted with a wonky charm and subtle wit. BCOS RSNS, the eponymous debut album, is set for release on 22nd May. (ML)

The Baby Seals- ‘ID’d At Aldi’
Another taster from their upcoming new album, the latest single from The Baby Seals reflects on the smug joy that comes with being told that you look younger than you are. Propelled by the their trademark catchy yet gritty energy, and a raging sense of fun, ‘ID’d At Aldi’ once again showcases The Baby Seals’ ability to deliver witty-yet-necessary, gloriously danceable punk anthems. And you should definitely watch the ‘shot on location’, action-packed accompanying video. Chaos, the new album from The Baby Seals, is out on 19th April via Trapped Animal Records, and you can catch Kerry from the band chatting about it on our next show on Soho Radio next Monday 1st April! (ML)

Mammoth Penguins – ‘Everything That I Write’
I’ve had such a soft spot for Cambridgeshire band Mammoth Penguins for years now – their 2019 album, There’s No Fight We Both Can’t Win, is probably one of my most played records, and it was such a joy to have them play for us that year too. Ahead of the release of a new album in May, new single ‘Everything That I Write’ examines the dynamics of trust and intimacy in a long term relationship, whilst flowing with all the lilting scuzzy energy and distinctive raw emotion of Emma Kupa’s vocals that I love so much. Here, the upcoming new album from Mammoth Penguins is set for release on 3rd May via Fika Records. (ML)

Brennan Wedl – ‘Fake Cowboy’
A heartfelt ode to East Nashville’s infamous Honky Tonk, ‘Fake Cowboy’ is the new single from Kill Rock Stars signed artist Brennan Wedl (aka my new favourite singer). Rippling with a glistening raw emotion, it showcases the raw emotion of Wedl’s luscious vocals as Americana-tinged stripped-back strumming builds to a gritty, fuzz-filled anthem, with shades of the legendary Sheryl Crow. I think it’s pretty exquisite and – being quite late to the Brennan Wedl party – I can’t wait to hear more from this awesome artist. You can watch a beautiful live rendition of the track here. (ML)

Grace Petrie – ‘Meanwhile In Texas’
I was lucky enough to catch Grace Petrie live at Islington Assembly Hall earlier this month, and it was a truly wonderful and unifying evening celebrating her fantastic latest album, Build Something Better. The whole album is a really beautiful collection, probably her most politically-charged yet, but delivered with her trademark lilting folk-strewn musicality. This is probably my favourite track; reflecting on the increasing wave of misogynist laws that are putting the lives of women, LGBTQ+ and trans folk in danger, it’s a poignant and necessary listen, inciting us to unite and fight against the forces that seek to oppress us. (ML)

Brides – ‘Eat Dirt’
‘Eat Dirt’ is a swaggering dose of queer Southern Gothic Rock from East London band Brides. Inspired by Gabriel Picolo’s graphic novel, Icarus and the Sun, the track is a gritty reflection on what vocalist Hannie McBride describes as a “love that burns too hot and leaves you in the dust.” It’s a brooding anti-love anthem, full of heavy riffs and permeated by a deep sense of lust and longing. (KC)

Nuha Ruby Ra – ‘Fetish 2 Forget’
We’ve been big fans of East London artist Nuha Ruby Ra for a while now, and I love the glitchy cinematic sound of this new single. Her soaring vocals alongside the the industrial, tension building soundscape ooze shades of something that the legendary Trent Reznor might create, which is always welcome here at GIHE! (ML)

NikNak – ‘You Were Supposed To Be Good’
Leeds-based DJ and producer NikNak blends experimental synths, jazz sounds and jungle beats on this eclectic and infectiously good track, which also features Grifton Forbes-Amos and Cassie Kinoshi. Taken from her upcoming album, Ireti, which is set for release on 21st May via Accidental Records, NikNak will be playing live in April at venues in Plymouth, Manchester, Bristol and Glasgow, all tickets are available online now. (KC)

LUCI – ‘Thunder Calling’
This track from US artist LUCI is taken from her upcoming debut album, They Say They Love You, which is set for release on 19th April via Don’t Sleep. I love LUCI’s clear vocals and eclectic instrumentation here. I tried to catch her live at The Great Escape Festival last year but I missed her show – regretting that now! (KC)

Noé Solange – ‘Rise’
I’m super glad I discovered this track from London-based, Dutch-Indonesian producer Noé Solange in my inbox.’Rise’ is the title track from her recent EP, and it’s a dreamy piece of downtempo electronica, inspired by the processes of nature, healing and self discovery. (KC)

Blonde Maze – ‘Beside You’
Any of our regular followers will be familiar with just how much I love Blonde Maze, and so it should come as no surprise that I’m currently completely addicted to her new single. Another blissful offering, ‘Beside You’ shimmers with hazy electronics and heartfelt vocals, as an immersive twinkling soundscape builds. As with everything else that the New York artist creates, this track just provides a perfect soothing antidote to life’s stresses; a truly euphoric sonic catharsis. (ML)

Hinako Omori – ‘cyanotype memories’ (Joe Goddard Remix)
Loving this Hot Chip remix of ‘cyanotype memories’, originally released by GIHE fave Hinako Omori via Houndstooth Records. Joe Goddard has put a playful spin on Hinako’s more tender, slow-building original piece. Hinako’s most recent album, stillness, softness…, is a real treat for the ears. Soothing, intuitive and graceful electronica – totally worth a listen. (KC)

Elsa Hewitt – ‘Wash The Sea’
Another intricate blend of lo-fi synth loops and vocal improvisations from the wonderful Elsa Hewitt here. ‘Wash The Sea’ is taken from her upcoming eighth album, Chaos Emeralds, which is set for release on 12th April. Chaos Emeralds is the result of an intense few years of personal change and growth for the artist, full of field recordings and poetry extracts, all underscored by her trademark magnetic electronica. (KC)

AVR – ‘Etude No.2’ (Philip Glass Rework)
This is a beautiful re-working of a Phili Glass piece by the incredibly talented multi-instrumentalist and producer AVR. Released via Philip Glass’ own label Orange Mountain Music, AVR’s atmospheric re-imagining is also accompanied by a video that was shot in collaboration with French fashion house Mugler. Sonically and visually, this is a total delight. Watch the video here. (KC)

Zemlya – ‘Ether’
I was so pleased to find this experimental soundscape from Brussels-based duo Zemlya in my inbox. Taken from their self-titled EP, this track ‘Ether’ is one of three extended pieces on the record that are inspired by the sounds and rhythms of their inner bodies and surroundings. It’s a truly haunting, hypnotising and disarming listen. (KC)

Birthday Problem ft. Róisín Nic Ghearailt – ‘An Maighdean Mhara’
This is the second track from Birthday Problem, a collaborative electronica project from Irish multi-instrumentalists and producers Matt Harris and Rocky O’Reilly. “As a proud Gaeilgeoir, it’s extremely important to me to show that gaeilge is for gach duine (everyone)”, explains guest lyricist and vocalist Róisín Nic Ghearailt, former member of post-punk band M(h)aol. Written entirely in Irish, Róisín penned the track when she moved back home, and the result is a sultry, brooding soundscape inspired by the tumultuous, alluring nature of the sea. (KC)

Anenome – ‘Fascinate Me’
This is the second single from Dublin post-folk four piece Anenome, lifted from their upcoming EP, Human Remains, which is set for release later this year. I love their dynamic instrumentation; eerie string sounds, brooding bass lines and yearning vocals combine to tantalise and antagonise the senses. (KC)

Kee Avil – ‘Felt’
‘Felt’ is an un-nerving blend of brittle synth textures, aching vocals, twangy strings and erratic beats from Montréal-based experimental artist and producer Kee Avil. Taken from her upcoming second album, Spine, which is set for release on 3rd May via Constellation, the way in which she expertly fuses gritty and gentle elements into her music always impresses me. (KC)

Kira McSpice – ‘Evaporate’
Taken from her beautifully titled upcoming album, The Compartmentalization of Decay, this track from Kira McSpice is a haunting reflection on trauma. Her new record is a deeply personal exploration of life after sexual assault, which the artist personifies through the natural processes of the maple tree. Her exquisite voice and dynamic string arrangements make for striking and hypnotic listening. (KC)

Mere Child – ‘Storms’
‘Storms’ is the latest single from independent artist Aimee Herbert aka Mere Child. Her soft vocals and shimmering instrumentation blend harmoniously together on ‘Storms’ to create a gentle, atmospheric rumination on emotional resilience. (KC)

Holly Munro – ‘Dead Ends’
This latest single from Irish songwriter Holly Munro is a thoughtful reflection on the way in which we choose our paths in life. Inspired by seeing her physical footprints in the sand after finishing a meditation, ‘Dead Ends’ is an emotive and considered exploration “questioning the choices you make and reflecting on how they shape your future in ways you can’t always predict or control.” (KC)

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