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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Guest Blog: Queer Cxntry

Saddle Up Y’all! Margate Punk Duo pink suits are bringing their cult night ‘Queer Cxntry’ to Signature Brew in Walthamstow for a FULL DAY TAKEOVER this bank holiday Saturday, 23rd August. Have a read all about it below, make sure you nab tickets, and listen to our special Queer Cxntry playlist to get you in the mood!

Is this your first Rodeo? For those who have not been to or heard of Queer Cxntry, here’s what to expect:

Queer Cxntry is a Country music themed LGBTQIA+ live gig and club night. Hosted by Lori Mae with performances from creators of the night pink suits‘ house band ‘The Northdown Rodeo’, plus drag legends The Cybils and special guest performers and DJs including Donna Poderosa, Izzy Aman and Dolly Parton tribute band, The Dumb Blondes. Audiences are encouraged to get involved! Come dressed to impress in your Cxntry Best for a chance to win the costume contest, join in some games for a chance to win some cxntry lovin’ prizes or jump up on the Rodeo Bull and show us what you got! Get your photos snapped in the iconic rose booth to show off  your outfits, and then dance the night away to country DJs and live music.

So, how did a political punk duo from Margate end up starting a Queer Cxntry night?

There were many things that lead to us starting Queer Cxntry. Lennie has always been really into cowboys, country music and dressing up. Johnny Cash and June Carter; The Highwaymen; Dolly Parton. And they’ve always been obsessed with watching cowboys that their mum loved growing up… Like Kevin Costner in Silverado, and concert videos of Ray Sawyer in Dr Hook and The Medicine Show, who were incredibly intriguing to a young bi boy from Manchester. Ray grew up in the real country, small town Colorado, USA! Surrounded by cowboys and country music, but in a very macho way. If you look closely, country has always been Queer!

More recent influences that directly lead to us starting Queer Cxntry in Margate were:

In late 2016 Lennie went for a piss in the iconic Grand Burstin Hotel in Folkestone. There was a country ‘n’ western night happening in the function room that they watched for a while. It was cute and wholesome, older couples line dancing and partner dancing, dressed in flannel shirts and cowboy hats and dresses and boots. But it was also very straight, and problematic with confederate flags hung on the walls. They thought it would be so great to see a Queer version of this… 

In 2019 Orville Peck exploded into our lives with the debut album Pony. This album, all of the songs, all of the aesthetics of Orville Peck and the music videos just crushed us. It was dark and romantic, and camp and silly, and unapologetically Queer. We were obsessed with all of it. That year we saw Orville Peck play in Leeds, London, Barcelona and Sydney. In Sydney we found a pink cowboy hat in a country store called Route 66 and decided to commit our lives to the Queer Cowboy aesthetic… 

Early 2020, right before the world shut down, there was a karaoke night at Tom Thumb Theatre in Margate. Lennie, newly back from Australia and newly committed to the Queer Country life, did a Cyrus mash up – singing Billy Ray Cyrus ‘Achey Breaky Heart’ dressed as Miley Cyrus in Wrecking Ball. Shelley Grotto was there and absolutely crushed Dolly Parton’s ‘Jolene’ and we said there NEEDS to be a night where we can dress like cowboys and Shelley can sing Jolene with a live band…

In Summer 2021 as venues were opening up again, Sammy from Elsewhere (now WhereElse?) asked us to do a show. We wanted to get audiences back together and back in venues, but we are a punk band and the restrictions were still up and down. No basements, no full gigs, no drums, no moving around, stay seated, wear masks etc, which didn’t scream ‘punk night’. We thought it would be a good opportunity to try out a Queer Country night of audience dress up, some gentle live band country covers, some drag performances. We knew Janet District Council played fiddle, and we met Island Girl on the steps at the beach and talked about banjos, so we put a band together. We had one rehearsal that Lucky Deluz just turned up to out of the blue… Thank the country gods! We sold out, a whole forty tickets, for the first ever Queer Cxntry… The rest, as they say…

Why does country lend itself so well to queerness? Has country always been Queer?

This could take a long long time and a lifetime of discussion, which we are fully committed to having! However, for the sake of ease, we will give you the simple answer. Queers love a dress up! And country is a very camp and very varied dress up… And all of it is hot! The cowboy aesthetic is rugged, butch and macho, it can be eccentric and tabby, sexy or subtle, it works for the L’s, G’s the B’s, the T’s the Q’s. The whole Queer alphabet! Leather is hot. Dungarees are hot. Boots and Saddles and Chaps, bandannas and ropes and tight jeans… it’s ALL GOOOD! And let’s be clear, the straights also love cowboys and the hot masc wrangler… But for Queers it is the subversion of this archetype that is fun and silly and sexy.

But country music is also very Queer. Not the business of country music, and a lot of the people who historically have been successful in it. Not the mainstream idea we have of the country music demographic, that has been unfairly co-opted by ideas of homophobia and misogyny, which is definitely rife in country music. But, at its heart, country music is about the experiences of life, love, loss, family and friends, and contemplating how we spend this time together. It is about heartbreak and beauty and struggles and pain. There is so much in country music that speaks to the Queer experience and – despite this idea that we have about country music not being a place for Queer people – a lot of the champions of country music have always been champions of Queer people and have spoken out about peoples right to live and love freely. I am talking about people like: Dolly Parton, Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, Carrie Underwood, Reba McEntire, The Chicks, Tim McGraw, Brandi Carlisle, Shania Twain, LeAnn Rimes… And now we have many out Queer country artists like: Orville Peck, Paisley Fields, Allison Russell, Amythyst Kiah, Lil Nas X, Dixon Dallas and many more.

Queer people have always been here. In every part of society. That includes country. It includes country music. It includes cowboys and ranchers and farmers and wranglers. There are some great resources out there that go into more historic detail of Queer life in the American West. 

A couple of our favourite Queer Cxntry albums (in addition to everything by Orville Peck’s Pony):

Noah Cyrus – I Want My Loved Ones To Go With Me
Noah Cyrus just dropped one of our favourite albums of all time. It has come out of nowhere and absolutely crushed us. If you do one thing off of the back of this blog, then listen to this album. If you do two things, then listen to the album AND book tickets for the Bank Holiday all dayer!


Allison Russell – Outside Child
We have made this recommendation on GIHE before I believe? But we will never ever stop shouting about this album. It has been four years, and we still listen to it a few times a week. Allison Russell is an unbelievable artist and a wonder to see live! 


A few other must-listen Queer Cxntry songs: 

Lavender Country – ‘Straight White Patterns‘
Mary Gauthier – ‘Drag Queens In Limosines‘
Orville Peck – ‘Hope To Die‘
Paisley Fields – ‘Iowa‘


Like what you’ve heard / seen / read?! Come join the Queer Cxntry revolution at the special All-Dayer event THIS SATURDAY 23RD AUGUST at Signature Brew on Blackhorse Road – tickets here. These events are always the most joyous, most life-affirming of times, so we really cannot recommend it enough to our queer community (and lovely allies)!
If you can’t make it this Saturday, listen to the Queer Cxntry playlist and make sure you catch the whole thing on tour this Autumn – details here.


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PLAYLIST: Christmas 2020

Whether you’re a Christmas music fanatic or a misanthropic seasonal Scrooge, there’s no doubt your approach to Christmas is going to be different in 2020. We can’t wait to get off the Government’s ever-changing carousel of chaos, with its flimsy guidelines and confusing restrictions, but while we’re on it, at least we have a decent festive soundtrack to play us out of this insane fairground ride called 2020.

To the bands, artists and labels we’ve worked alongside – you’re all diamonds and we look forward to working with you again in 2021. Let’s raise a glass to those who managed to release something in 2020, and another for those who had to sit this one out. We love you all, Merry Christmas from the GIHE team. xxx

Take some time to read through our Christmas track choices and make sure you hit play on the Spotify playlist at the end of this post. We’ve also included a few festive gems that are only available on bandcamp/YouTube, so make sure you listen to them too!

Poly Styrene – ‘Black Christmas’
This buoyant sounding festive tune from the one and only Poly Styrene comes with a much needed dose of lyrical realism. Featuring vocals from Poly’s daughter Celeste Bell, ‘Black Christmas’ is an anthem for those who feel uncomfortable celebrating at this time of year, a sentiment that feels more poignant than ever in 2020. (Kate Crudgington)

The Crystal Furs – ‘Drinking Alone At Christmas’
A festive offering from Oregon queer indie-pop band The Crystal Furs, ‘Drinking Alone On Christmas’ sparkles with uplifting shimmering synths, honey-sweet vocals and scuzzy hooks, providing the perfect juxtaposition of twinkling festive cheer with refreshingly honest lyricism. Reflecting on the all-too relatable scenario of “drinking alone on Christmas”, it’s a must for all those ‘Christmas parties’ we’ll be having alone in front of our laptops this season. The band describe the track as a “non-traditional holiday pop tune of drinking, catgirls, and holiday ennui”. (Mari Lane)

Basic Bitches – ‘I Hope Your Holidays Are Fine’
A relatable and cautiously optimistic tune from Brooklyn-based riot grrrls Basic Bitches. The band say this song is about “the general sense of dread and disappointment that accompanies the holiday season once you reach adulthood, when the most you can hope for are big leftovers and small hangovers.” (KC)

The Go! Team – ‘Look Outside (A New Year’s Coming!)’
Taken from Memphis Industries’ Christmas compilation album Lost Christmas, The Go! Team’s ‘Look Outside (A New Year’s Coming)’ flows with the collective’s trademark jangling energy. Fizzing with a twinkling optimism and vibrant, catchy musicality, it’s an instant festive earworm. Of the track, the band explain: “It started life as a loose anti Brexit metaphor – an appeal against small mindedness – to ‘look outside your window’. But the last year has totally changed the meaning. I guess it’s about trying to stay positive when it’s the hardest it’s ever been.” Other artists featuried on Lost Christmas include Rozi Plain, Field Music and The Cornshed Sisters. Buy Lost Christmas here. In aid of Crisis’ Home for All Campaign, £2 from every LP purchase goes to help their work. (ML)

No Doubt – ‘Oi! To The World’
I couldn’t really have a Christmas playlist without this festive punk-pop belter from Gwen and co. (ML)

Dream Nails – ‘Lonely Star’
The gift that keeps on giving, feminist punks Dream Nails and their joyful Christmas single ‘Lonely Star’. The track is dedicated to those who may be feeling isolated or alone at this time of year – especially their LGBTQ fans – and all the money raised from track sales will be donated to The Outside Project, the UK’s first LGBTIQ+ Homeless Shelter. You can buy their track bandcamp now. (KC)

Problem Patterns – ‘Christmas Number One’
The new festive banger from Belfast feminist punks Problem Patterns who we’ve championed many times on GIHE this year. Mari and I are big fans of these grrrls and we’re looking forward to hearing more from them in 2021. (KC)

Charley Stone – ‘Merry Christmas Actually’
A familiar face on the London music scene, featuring in many bands including Salad, Charley Stone has now shared her own Christmas offering. Inspired by “the worst scene from the worst film ever”, ‘Merry Christmas Actually’ flows with jangling hooks and a twinkling sense of romanticism, oozing Stone’s sugar-sweet vocals and a delicate, swirling indie-pop charm. ‘Merry Christmas Actually’ was recorded with Donald Ross Skinner. (ML)

Eurythmics – ‘Winter Wonderland’
Eurythmics’ vocalist Annie Lennox was born on Christmas Day, but she is the musical gift that keeps on giving whatever time of year it is. It’s also the tenth anniversary of her solo Christmas album A Christmas Cornucopia, which is a delightful soundtrack to wrap your presents to. (KC)

The Big Moon – ‘Carol Of The Bells’
London four-piece The Big Moon deliver a splendid version of this classic made famous by the ultimate Christmas film, Home Alone. It makes me wish I had a microwave mac & cheese dinner in front of me, just like Macaulay Culkin does before he smashes Marv’s face in with an iron. (KC)

Rachael Dadd, Rozi Plain, This Is The Kit – ‘We Build Our Houses Well’
Another one taken from Memphis Industries’ Christmas compilation album Lost Christmas, ‘We Build Our Houses Well’ features Rachael Dadd alongside both Rozi Plain and This Is The Kit’s Kate Stables. Flowing with luscious folk-strewn melodies and sweeping glistening harmonies, it’s a beautifully uplifting slice of winter sparkle. Of the song, Dadd explains: “After the isolation of lockdown, it felt natural to write a Christmas song that was basically like a big sonic party, inviting all my friends and collaborators over my whole life to join together. Feeling blessed to have made so many good friends through music and to have most of them all in one place here on this song, representing connection at a time where so many of us feel isolated.” Buy Lost Christmas here. In aid of Crisis’ Home for All Campaign, £2 from every LP purchase goes to help their work. (ML)

Alanis Morissette – ‘Happy Xmas (War Is Over)’
I was supposed to see Alanis Morissette live for the first time this year, but alas, I’ll make do with her cute cover of John Lennon & Yoko Ono’s single instead. (KC)

PINS – ‘Merry Christmas (I Don’t Want To Fight Tonight)’
A festive cover by Manchester trio PINS and a perfect musical accompaniment to drink your festive tipple to. (KC)

Grace Petrie – ‘Fairytale Of New York’
Grace and her band’s take on the Pogues’ classic, this rendition of ‘Fairytale Of New York’ flows with folk-laden strings, soaring harmonies and an up-tempo sense of festive cheer, culminating in the perfect re-writing of that lyric – replacing it with “You scumbag, you maggot, WE LOVE DIANE ABBOTT”. It’s simply impossible not to sing along at the top of your lungs and feel a little bit of hope for what 2021 might bring. (ML)

Girl Ray – ‘I Wish I Were Giving You A Gift This Christmas’
A classic from my faves Girl Ray from back in 2017, ‘I Wish I Were Giving You A Gift This Christmas’ is the perfect smattering of joy we all need right now. With just the right balance of Christmassy sparkle and the band’s trademark shimmering, sunny charm, it’s a song about longing and loneliness at this time of year. Complete with a children’s choir, sleigh bells and even a whinny of a kidnapped reindeer (!), the track is a delightful slice of twinkling garage-pop to get you in the mood for this time of year, when some of us may be struggling to do that right now. (ML)

Gold Baby – ‘Looks Like a Cold, Cold Winter’
A Bing Crosby classic reimagined by indie darlings Gold Baby. All proceeds from this single will be donated to the campaign to end loneliness, so head over the Gold Baby’s bandcamp now and give what you can. (KC)

CMAT, Junior Brother – ‘Uncomfortable Christmas’
Irish pop sensation CMAT is the queen of relatable pop tunes and this Christmas tune is no exception. A beautiful duet with Junior Brother, ‘Uncomfortable Christmas’ is the perfect dose of festive melancholy. (KC)

Self Esteem – ‘All I Want For Christmas Is A Work Email’
A soulful festive anthem from experimental pop artist (and Slow Club member) Rebecca Taylor, aka Self Esteem, ‘All I Want For Christmas Is A Work Email’ is an alternative Christmas bop for any of us who may not look forward to Christmas as much as most. Dedicated to those who may cope with these times of “celebration” by immersing themselves in work as a distraction, Taylor says of the track: “I wanted to write a song for fellow people who cope with life by working and creating and moving forwards – the enforced stillness of Christmas can be so triggering… ” (ML)

Piney Gir / Roxys – ‘White Winter Hymnal’
Piney Gir’s cover of the Fleet Foxes classic contains all the soothing festive sparkle you need right now. Oozing sparkling crystalline vocals and a gentle celestial grace, it’s a truly beautiful rendition of one of my favourite winter soundtracks. Recorded originally for the Joyzine Advent Calendar, ‘White Winter Hymnal’ provides a taste of what’s to come from Piney Gir and Roxys, as they’re currently working on an upcoming new EP, set for release in 2021. (ML)

TLC – ‘Sleigh Ride’
Who doesn’t need a bit of TLC-shaped joy at this time of year?! (ML)

The Pretenders – ‘Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas’
Originally performed by Judy Garland in the 1944 film Meet Me In St. Louis, I love The Pretenders’ festive version of this classic. Praise be for Chrissie Hynde. (KC)

Dolly Parton – ‘Coming Home For Christmas’
This one’s for Tash! Dolly is the star in the winter sky and we all love her un-shakeable optimism. (KC)

 

These tracks aren’t on Spotify, but they’re too good not to include!

Fightmilk – ‘Healey’s Only Wish (This Christmas)’
Taken from their new festive album, the wonderfully titled Fightmilk & Cookies – a collection of Christmas covers from each of the band members, as well as a couple of seasonal originals – ‘Healey’s Only Wish (This Year)’ provides just the right amount of twinkling cheer along with the band’s trademark tongue-in-cheek wit. Combining scuzzy hooks, Healey’s distinctive vocals and traditional sparkling melodies, it’s an instantly uplifting festive earworm. (ML)

 

Potpourri – ‘Modern Girls’ (not on Spotify)
A festive offering from Sheffield band Potpourri, ‘Modern Girls’ ponders the idealism of a perfect Christmas amid the bounty of priceless love. Propelled by a swirling, sparkling majesty, it oozes a blissful euphoric aura, whilst maintaining a refreshing sense of realism. A perfect and relatable Christmas accompaniment for any of us ‘Modern Girls’. Of the track, songwriter Lauren Dowling reflects: “I guess I was thinking about the modern phenomenon of gift-giving as a language of love, but also as a point of contention. Whilst we’re more inclined to be charitable at this time of year, we also can’t escape our own expectations for grandeur and luxury, but for ‘Modern Girls’, it’s the former that tends to bring the most joy and warmth.” The band will be donating all proceeds from the track to Burngreave Foodbank and SAYiT charities. (ML)

 

Charlotte Carpenter – ‘A Light Christmas’
A festive cover by Charlotte Carpenter who is a previous guest on our GIHE radio show and the founder of Babywoman Records. All proceeds from this single will be donated to homeless charity Crisis UK, so do head over the her bandcamp and download it if you can. (KC)

 

The Joy Formidable – ‘My Beerdrunk Soul Is Sadder Than A Hundred Dead Christmas Trees’
This genuinely is one of my favourite Christmas songs whether it’s been a year like 2020, or the best year of my life. I love busting out this misanthropic anthem and mainlining a bottle of Baileys* to it. (Aldi’s Ballycastle*) (KC)

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LISTEN: Zelha – ‘Player One’

Pop artist Zelha has just released new single ‘Player One’, taken from her debut EP which will be released over the course of the next year.

A melancholic ode to someone who’s just out of reach, even when they’re holding your hand, ‘Player One’ is an instant alt-pop earworm. Zelha, with soulful and rich tones, laments a lover who is more focused on winning the game and levelling up than on connecting with others, as subtle drops and rhythmic synths flow throughout. A heartfelt sonic gem, ‘Player One’ puts us into a longing space, watching someone we love slip away right between our fingers.

Born to Beligan and Mexican parents, Zelha takes her unique perspective straight into her songwriting. Citing influences like Dolly Parton and Lorde, the singer/songwriter infuses her music with honest, emotion-strewn storytelling.

Aisha Kasmir
@aisha_vocal

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