PLAYLIST: September 2025

The Get In Her Ears team have put together another eclectic mix of indie and alt-folk gems, reverb-drenched guitar tunes, electronic musings & intriguing experimental sounds for your listening pleasure. Take some time to scroll through our recommendations below!

In order to best support the female, LGBTQIA+ and non-binary artists that we love here at GIHE, we are moving away from using Spotify as our main playlisting platform, so we have included YouTube and/or bandcamp links for all of the tracks on this playlist. You can still access our GIHE profile on Spotify (which we do not have a paid subscription for) but we are in the process of choosing a different platform to share new music with you.

As always, we encourage you to follow the artists below on their social media, sign up to their mailing lists, go to their gigs and buy their records from bandcamp if you can!

Queen Of Nothing – ‘Hell Is A Lonely Place’
Despite its gloomy namesake, this track from London-based musician Abi Crisp aka Queen Of Nothing is actually an “anthem for queer joy.” It’s the first single from her upcoming EP, All the Love That’s Left, and it’s full of her yearning vocals, reverb-heavy guitar and emotive lyricism. “I wanted to write a song that felt both hopeful and defiant for anyone who might relate to it,” Abi comments about the context of ‘Hell Is A Lonely Place’. “Even in those moments of joy and self-acceptance, it can be so hard to let go of the negative emotions we grow used to.” This tenacity is reflected in the track’s striking volume shifts and gritty-but-buoyant guitar riffs. (Kate Crudgington – Features Editor)

TTSSFU – ‘forever’
Taken from her recent EP, Blown, this is the latest single from Manchester-based artist Tasmin Stephens aka TTSSFU. ‘forever’ is a nostalgic reflection on a lifelong friendship, full of her lush vocals and dreamy, shoegaze-inspired guitar sounds. (KC)

Whitelands – ‘Glance’
GIHE favourites Whitelands are back with new music and the the announcement of their second album! Sunlight Echoes is set for release on 30th January 2026 via Sonic Cathedral, and ‘Glance’ is the first offering from the new record. It shimmers with the shoegaze band’s trademark sensitivity, but also showcases a refreshing new dynamic to their songwriting. ‘Glance’ was written after vocalist and guitarist Etienne overcame a period of writers block. “I wasn’t really catching my stride with songs and I called up Neil Halstead [of Slowdive] for advice,” he explains. “When I next saw him he asked if I had solved it and I told him yes, as I’d had my heart broken. He laughed and was like, ‘Yeah, that’ll do it’.” This experience is mirrored in the accompanying video for ‘Glance’ which features British film stars David Jonsson (The Long Walk, Alien: Romulus, Rye Lane, Industry) and Honor Swinton Byrne (The Souvenir, I Am Love) – as well as Estella from Big Joanie! (KC)

Needy Pet – ‘Mental Health’
Self described Irish ‘glam-punk’ band Needy Pet have been building a reputation over the last few months for their high-energy live shows, and are now ready to blast into your ears with their stomping debut single. A raging reflection on the state of Irish mental health services, ‘Mental Health’ showcases Needy Pet’s ability to create catchy ‘70s inspired anthems with a fresh, socially conscious drive. (Mari Lane – Managing Editor)

LOBSTERBOMB – ‘Falling’
Another month, another banger from Berlin−based post−punk outfit LOBSTERBOMB. The band say that this track ‘Falling’ is “about looking instead of running away, about accepting instead of holding on; and about welcoming the new version of yourself, even if it hurts at first.” (KC)

Maria Iskariot – ‘Witte Rook’
First catching our attention earlier this year with seething single ‘Leugenaar’, Dutch band Maria Iskariot have now announced that their debut album will be out in the world next month. And, ahead of the album’s release, they have shared another slice of raw, no-frills punk in new single ‘Witte Rook’ (white smoke). Fizzing with a wonky, distorted allure as the immense gritty passion of front person Helena Cazaerck’s vocals rage throughout, the band describe the track as “…a victory for losers, an attempt at forgiveness, swallowing, biting in your own lip and saliva that tastes like iron.” Wereldwaan, the upcoming debut album from Maria Iskariot, is set for release on 31st October. (ML)

Softcult – ‘16/25’
I was so excited to hear the news that Ontario sibling duo Softcult have finished their debut album! When A Flower Doesn’t Grow is set for release on 30th January 2026 via Easy Life Records, and ’16/25′ is the first offering from the LP. The track offers a scathing commentary on the predatory behaviour of older men who groom younger women, which the band deliver through spiralling riffs, piston-like percussion and haunting vocals. As vocalist and guitarist Mercedes Arn-Horn explained to me when I interviewed her back in 2024, this new album will mark another evolution in Softcult’s sound, something which is immediate and obvious on this new track. (KC)

Mannequin Flowers – ‘Six Words’
Cascading with fuzzy hooks and lush crystalline vocals, ‘Six Words’ is the latest single from upcoming London band Mannequin Flowers. A dreamy soundscape powered by raw emotion and gritty energy, it offers a soaring insight into what this new band are able to create; of the track, the band explain that “it captures the ache of loving a vision that can never be real”. Shimmering with shades of Cocteau Twins, it marks Mannequin Flowers out as definite ones to keep your ears and eyes peeled for over the next few months. (ML)

Better Joy – ‘Steamroller’
A defiant anthem about reclaiming strength in the face of loss, ‘Steamroller’ is the new single from Manchester-based Bria Keely, aka Better Joy. Whirring with fuzzy hooks as Keely’s sugar-sweet vocals flow with a sparkling emotion, it offers a catchy taste of her upcoming new EP, at dusk, set for release on 31st October. (ML)

Larlin – ‘Limbo’
‘Limbo’ is the third single from alt-rock Brighton trio Larlin. Fronted by Maryann, the band create cathartic, driving anthems influenced by the sounds of Wolf Alice and Nieve Ella. This track is about the frustration of being stuck inside a doomed relationship that you’re not quite ready to let go of, which is reflected through brooding riffs and Maryann’s yearning vocals. (KC)

Lusa Morena – ‘You Don’t Keep Away’
Having previously been blown away by the swirling immersive energy of Portuguese, London-based band Lusa Morena when they played for us live a couple of years back, I was excited to hear of their revived iteration as a theatrical rock duo. With debut single ‘You Don’t Keep Away’, they reflect on the all-too-common experiences of being made to feel uncomfortable by men with a fiery impassioned spirit and playful tongue-in-cheek wit. (ML)

Read The Room – ‘Phoenix’
A fierce collision of different musical influences delivered with a fresh, rousing energy, ‘Phoenix’ is the high-octane new single from Norwich rockers Read The Room. It offers an impassioned reflection on our ability to overcome trauma and rise, ‘like a phoenix’, from the ashes. (ML)

Mia Joan – ‘Us’
The latest single from London-based artist Mia Joan, ‘Us’ offers a poignant reflection on love, an earnest dedication to “the one person who loves every part of you, even when you feel you’re being held back by all of your past selves.” Flowing with lilting melodies alongside the deep resonant emotion of Joan’s vocal, I just love its shimmering heartfelt grace. (ML)

Marine Store Dealer – ‘Speed Back To Me’
Originally from Nottingham and Istanbul respectively, London-based Marine Store Dealer create shimmering folk-tinged soundscapes, interweaving dreamy layers of instrumentation. Set to release their second album, When We Swim Outside In The Floods In The Streets, later this Autumn, their new single ‘Speed Back To Me’ is out now. (ML)

Automatic – ‘Black Box’
The latest single from dark-pop trio Automatic, ‘Black Box’ oozes a sweeping majestic groove as fuzzy beats propel the track forwards. As sultry hypnotic vocals flow throughout, it offers an infectious synth-driven anthem. Of the track, the band explain: “It’s a pretty straightforward critique of people that have sold out on a large scale, specifically within creative industries…” Is It Now?, the new album from Automatic, is out now. (ML)

Tusks – ‘Cold Storm’ (TAAHLIAH Remix)
Tash and I have been loving the remixes that London-based electronic songwriter and producer Tusks has been sharing recently, and this collaboration with Scotland-based artist & DJ TAAHLIAH is no exception! It’s lifted from her new EP, Gold – The Remixes, which is out tomorrow (1st October) via One Little Independent Records. (KC)

Noé Solange – ‘Home’
This atmospheric, soothing soundscape comes from London-based, Dutch-Indonesian producer Noé Solange. ‘Home’ is the second single from her upcoming EP, Moments, set for release on 13th October via Anjunachill. “It captures the complexities of holding onto the past, searching for a sense of belonging and letting go,” Noé explains about the tracks that form her new record; all reflected in her blend of ambient synths, gentle vocals and lilting beats. (KC)

Donna Thompson – ‘What Is It?’
Set to release a new EP in November, London-based Donna Thompson fuses together elements of hip-hop, folk and indie with a soulful impassioned grace. Of new single ‘What Is It?’, she explains: “I’ve been thinking about the deconstruction of traditional ideas on how my role as a female in a cis relationship has predefined expectations that often don’t align with what loving someone feels like. I can still love you if I don’t wanna wash your underwear.” What In The World, the new EP from Donna Thompson, is out on 21st November via Prah Recordings. (ML)

Flock Of Dimes – ‘Defeat’
A beautiful reflection on personal growth, ‘Defeat’ is the latest single from Flock Of Dimes, the new project of Jenn Wasner (Wye Oak, Bon Iver). Combining rippling hooks with a sweeping shimmering emotion, it offers a heartfelt first taste of her upcoming album, The Life You Save, out on 10th October via Sub Pop. Of the track, she explains: “It represents a moment of total surrender. It’s about the moment I finally allowed myself to accept my own powerlessness…” (ML)

Stella Donnelly – ‘Feel It Change’
This is the latest single from Australian songwriter Stella Donnelly, inspired by her ruminations on an inevitably doomed relationship. It’s lifted from her upcoming new album, Love and Fortune, which is set for release on 7th November via Brace Yourself Records (UK & Europe) and Dot Dash Recordings (globally). Stella’s new record is a reflection on a time of profound change and growth, which shines through in her considered instrumentation and candid-yet-poetic lyricism. (KC)

Josienne Clarke – ‘In The Dark Of The Night’
Described as “a hug in song form, a held hand through an anxious night,” this tender offering from songwriter and guitarist Josienne Clarke is exactly that. Lifted from her upcoming album, Far From Nowhere, which she will release via her own label (Corduroy Punk) on 17th October, ‘In The Dark Of The Night’ is a dreamy offering designed to lull listeners into reassurance, which Josienne achieves through her acoustic guitar and soothing vocals. Her upcoming album will be accompanied by a short film titled Deluded, directed by Alec Bowman Clarke, which offers a behind-the-scenes peek into the album’s creation. Currently screening at festivals, the film will be shown throughout Josienne’s UK tour this October. (KC)

Brain Leak – ‘Moon Eyes’
Following the gloriously hazy allure of debut ‘Trying’, Manchester based Brain Leak are back with their “Lana moment’ in the form of sparkling single ‘Moon Eyes’. As the delicate celestial vocals of Tara-Gabriella Engelhardt (Adjustments) ripple with a stripped-back emotion alongside glistening keys, it showcases a more vulnerable side to the songwriter; a beautifully introspective ode to personal growth. Tara-Gabriella explains more: “Sometimes relationships evolve in completely unforeseen ways, and that can be scary if you’re a sensitive person like I am who struggles with change. This song is me coming to terms with that change.” Brain Leak also features Sidonie Hand-Halford (The Orielles), Jess Branney (Peaness, BC Camplight) and Giulia Bonometti (Working Men’s Club). (ML)

Snakeskin – ‘October Sun’
Beirut-based duo Fadi Tabbal and Julia Sabra aka Snakeskin are new to me, but I’m captivated by their haunting electronica. This track ‘October Sun’ is taken from their upcoming third album, We live in sand, which is due on 10th October as a co-release between Ruptured and Beacon Sound. Penned as the war in Gaza spread to Lebanon, the LP has been described as their “starkest and most immediate work to date,” blending industrial and ambient elements to reflect the unpredictable and harsh realities of the world around them. (KC)

Jouska – ‘Season Of Dread’
Norwegian artist Jouska said she penned this track when she felt like she was “stuck inside a winter that wouldn’t end – both emotionally and physically.” It’s taken from her upcoming album, How Did I Wind Up Here?, set for release on 17th October. I admire the way Jouska moves through heavy emotions with impressive grace here. (KC)

Lōwli – What’s It All For?
I’ve mentioned (multiple) times before that Irish musician and composer Lōwli is one of my favourite new music discoveries this year, and I’m really looking forward to hearing her debut album, Window In The Woods, in full – which is due on 24th October via VETA Records. This latest single ‘What’s it all for?’ is laced with her trademark melancholic keys, yearning vocals and poetic lyrics. (KC)

Blue Loop – ‘Luxury Chords’
London-based electronic producer Emma Hall aka Blue Loop describes ’Luxury Chords’ as “a woozy, love-soaked ballad” that she wrote for her partner during the bleakest days of her own chemotherapy treatment for breast cancer, which she is now in remission from. It’s lifted from her upcoming album, Cycles, which is set for release on 7th November. The track is inspired by the simultaneous coexistence of love, grief and suffering; a poignant sentiment that I think lots of people will be able to relate to. (KC)

Klein – ‘rich dad poor dad’
I’m so glad I unearthed this experimental gem from UK rapper Klein in my GIHE inbox. ‘rich dad poor dad’ is taken from her upcoming record, sleep with a cane, due on 1st October, which is described as a UK rap record “in the form of an ambient folklore mixtape.” I really love her hypnotic layering of sounds and I’m looking forward to listening to the record in full. ‘rich dad poor dad’ is also accompanied by a self-directed music video, which features Klein in different locations in South London, including the iconic Windrush Square in Brixton. (KC)

Hilary Woods – ‘Endgames’
I’ve been a fan of Irish artist Hilary Woods for some time, so I was pleased to see that she’ll be releasing her new album, Night CRIÚ, on 31st October via Sacred Bones (one of my favourite record labels.) Retaining her experimental spirit, but also seeing her return to a more song-based structure, the album is centered around Hilary’s vocals which act as threads of connection to the past and the present. This track ‘Endgames’ is the first hint at what’s to come; a dynamic, shape-shifting soundscape that stirs the senses. (KC)

Jessica Moss – ‘until all are free’
As a core member of the Montréal chapter of Musicians For Palestine, violinist and composer Jessica Moss felt compelled to write her new solo record to keep people’s eyes and ears fixed on the ongoing genocide in Gaza. Her meditative LP, Unfolding, due on 24th October via Constellation, is divided into four parts titled; “no one / no where / no one is free / until all are free” and this track ‘until all are free’ is the poignant closing composition. Unfolding is dedicated to “a free Palestine in our lifetime.” (KC)

Agnes Haus – ‘Persona’
Described as “a hallucinatory polyphonic study of external perceptions of what it means to live in a perpetual liminal state,” I am deeply intrigued by Brighton-based non-binary artist Agnes Haus’ new work. This track ‘Persona’ is lifted from their upcoming album, Inexorable Ascent, set for release on 7th November via Nite Hive, and forms part of a collection of drone-based modular synthesiser sounds composed solely between the hours of midnight and 4am. Agnes locked themselves in their attic studio every night for two weeks in order to work in this way. “I watched granular Bergman and Tarkovsky films in the background while I crudely experimented on my small modular synthesiser,” they explain. “I had been feeling like a pariah at the time by shunning binary systems on all levels, from politics to everyday life, which had become suffocating in the online world. I kind of anaesthetised myself in the late-night hours, focusing on the subtleties of the quiet particulars of sound – the details of the infinite intonations in between.” Watch the self-directed video for ‘Persona’ below. (KC)

LISTEN: GIHE on Soho Radio with Estella from Big Joanie (18.09.25)

Tash and Kate were back in the Soho Radio studio bringing listeners their usual eclectic mix of new music tunes from some of their favourite female, non-binary and LGBTQIA+ artists. Mari offered the team some of her “musical musings” too!

They were joined by DIY punk icon Estella from Big Joanie to talk about her solo work as ellaments, her new music ventures with “supergroup” Widget, her future recording plans with Big Joanie and her plans to DJ at our SOLD OUT all-day GIHE 10th birthday gig at The Cavendish Arms on Saturday 27th September (join the waiting list on DICE here)

As if that wasn’t enough, Estella is also an advocate for so many incredible organisations. She spoke about her work with DIY punk festival Decolonise Fest, youth-based music initiative Spark The Noise (formerly Girls Rock London), her upcoming panel appearance for Perfect Pitch at Brixton Hill Studios and her ongoing work with Good Night Out, who campaign for safer nightlife. Make sure you check them all out!

Listen back below:

 

We’ll be back on Soho Radio on Thursday 23rd October from 22:00-00:00 (GMT)
 Make sure you tune in via DAB or the new Soho Radio app!
You can also listen at www.sohoradiolondon.com

Tracklist
Donna Summer – Autumn Changes
james K – idea.2
Weakened Friends – Tough Luck (Bleed Me Out)
TTSSFU – forever
Lōwli – What’s It All For?
Jouska – Season Of Dread
DEBBY FRIDAY – Bet On Me
Tusks – Adore (I. JORDAN Remix)
Sijya – I Only Want To Crash
Klein – rich dad poor dad
TRACEY – Sleazy
Lucky Iris – I just wanna dance
ellaments – Remedy
**Interview with Estella**
Hayley Williams – Parachute
LOBSTERBOMB – Falling
Jessie Mac – Trans is Beautiful (Tash’s Track Of The Show)
Blue Loop – Luxury Chords (Kate’s Track Of The Show)
jasmine 4.t – I Can’t Believe I Did This Without You (Mari’s Track Of The Show)
adults – patterns
Tyler Holmes – Copy
Cormorant Tree Oh – The Wrong Kind
MUMMY – They Who Knew
Problem Patterns – Classic Rock Has Become My Prison

PLAYLIST: August 2025

We’re publishing our August Playlist slightly later than planned, but we hope our eclectic mix of punk anthems; indie and alt-folk gems, evocative beats, emotive electronic soundscapes & instrumentals will still provide the perfect soundtrack for your eager ears! Make sure you take some time to scroll through our recommendations below.

In order to best support the female, LGBTQIA+ and non-binary artists that we love here at GIHE, we are moving away from using Spotify as our main playlisting platform, so we have included YouTube and/or bandcamp links for all of the tracks on this playlist. You can still access our GIHE profile on Spotify (which we do not have a paid subscription for) but we are in the process of choosing a different platform to share new music with you.

As always, we encourage you to follow the artists below on their social media, sign up to their mailing lists, go to their gigs and buy their records from bandcamp.

 

Breakup Haircut – ‘The Algorithm’s Trying To Kill Me’
We’re so so excited to see the return of DIY faves and First Timers alumni Breakup Haircut! Following 2022’s fantastic debut, Punk Dancing For Self Defence, they’ve now released the first in a string of new singles ahead of a second album – due for release this autumn via INH Records. A deeply relatable anti-capitalist anthem, ‘The Algorithm’s Trying To Kill Me’ showcases the band’s trademark playful sardonic wit and scuzzy punk-pop energy whilst angst-driven undercurrents and fierce hooks indicate a more honed, sharper sound for Breakup Haircut. I’m very much looking forward to hearing more from them soon, which we all can when they join us at New River Studios on 10th October, supporting Strange New Places with Junk Whale. Nab tickets on DICE now! (Mari Lane – Managing Editor)


Problem Patterns – ‘Classic Rock Has Become My Prison’

Ahead of their upcoming new EP, Boring Songs For Boring People, due via Alcopop! Records on 12th September, and following recent release ‘I’m Fine and I’m Doing Great’ (which was on the BBC 6Music playlist for four weeks!) Belfast queer punk pals Problem Patterns have now shared this immense new single. Offering a wonderful parody on the sexist ideals of many classic rock heroes, ‘Classic Rock Has Become My Prison’ was initially inspired by Bev feeling imprisoned by her neighbour’s daily blasting out of certain bands at an obnoxiously loud volume, and has developed into a fiercely raging ‘cock-rock’ anthem.

Of the track, Bev explains: “the more I thought about classic rock tunes, the more I thought about the sexism and misogyny rampant in the lyrics of even the most popular songs. Musically, we took on classic rock alter-egos, ripping solos, chugging riffs, hitting the drum fills just right, before letting loose that patented PP anger.” Prizes for anyone who can identify any of the twenty five cocky lyrical references patchworked into the song – I think I can name a few, which I might run by the band when THEY HEADLINE OUR 10TH BIRTHDAY ALL DAYER ON 27TH SEPTEMBER! We cannot wait. Tickets are now officially sold out, but feel free to join the waiting list on DICE in case anyone has to return theirs. If you have a ticket, we’ll see you at The Cavendish Arms on the 27th, along with so many other faves like Fightmilk, The Baby Seals, Ray Aggs, Jemma Freeman and The Cosmic Something and more!
(ML)

Madame So – ‘Sick Of It All’
Indie art-punk artist Madame So is back with an aptly named new single ‘Sick Of It All’, a cathartic anthem inspired by the need to stand in solidarity with oppressed nations and victims of war crimes. It was originally written in 2024, but Madame So’s anger and lyricism remain just as relevant a year on. She wants to be clear that the song is not about exploiting suffering, but about “using music as a tool to open eyes and spark conversations that matter.” (Kate Crudgington – Features Editor)

CARNE – ‘VAST’
This is the second single from Brighton-based grunge four-piece CARNE, who are fronted by vocalist and guitarist Carmen Mellino. ‘VAST’ is both a “tribute” to a niche band of the same name that Carmen admires, as well as an exploration of the complexities of human connection and how this can be affected by the intensity of touring as a band. It’s full of crushing riffs and lush melodic vocals, inspired by iconic ’90s grunge icons like The Smashing Pumpkins and Hole. (KC)

Yuppie Supper – ‘Neocanine’
A new favourite band for sure, Leeds based DIY trio Yuppie Supper are set to release their second EP, The Mondegreen, on 10th October, and our first taste of that comes in the form of recent single ‘Neocanine’. Voicing their frustration at being forced to choose between the far right and more of the neoliberalism of the last 40 years, the band offer trans-lead, grunge-fuelled anthems, and I can’t get enough of their fiercely angst-driven energy. (ML)

Vanelle – ‘Blue Curls’
‘Blue Curls’ is an angst-ridden reflection on adolescence from Berlin-based trio Vanelle. Released via Beans On Toast Records, the newly launched sub-label of Duchess Box Records, the track is taken from the band’s upcoming self-titled EP, which is set for release on 3rd October. Through heartfelt lyrics and brooding guitar riffs, the band explore what it’s like to feel left out and like you don’t fit in when you’re growing up. (KC)

steel. – ‘DFTTM’
I was lucky enough to attend a day of Decolonise Fest at Signature Brew – a fantastic event promoting punks of colour and their community. Starting off with an incredibly inspiring and informative panel from YWMP, Good Night Out Campaign, Spark The Noise and Off Shoot Tours about creating safer spaces for marginalised groups to enjoy live music, the day and evening was filled with so much incredible live music, including the playful, jazz-tinged energy of Coventry’s The Genes, post-punk legends Bona Rays and the driving frenzied indie anthems of Liverpool’s ones to watch, steel. (ML)

adults – ‘patterns’
Set to release their second full-length album next month, South London indie-punks adults have now shared the first taste of what to expect. A nostalgic ode to London’s DIY scene, offering a wistful reflection on how the city’s changed and the deep sense of loss that has come with this, ‘patterns’ flows with the band’s trademark jangly energy and fuzzy hooks. As twinkling harmonies ripple with a gentle raw emotion, it builds with an anthemic sense of hope as sparkling synths conjure memories of dancing into the night at beloved venues like Moth Club and Power Lunches. I can’t wait to hear more of the band’s beautifully heartstring-tugging, head-bopping creations when they play the Divine Schism all-dayer at New River Studios next Saturday 13th September. the seeds we sow are sprouting buds nonetheless, the upcoming new album from adults, is set for release on 31st October via Fika Records. (ML)

Jessie Mac – ‘Trans Is Beautiful’
This is a powerful (and incredibly catchy) “sonic statement” from South East London trans DJ, producer and label owner Jessie Mac. By sampling the words of American actress and LGBTQ advocate Laverne Cox and combining them with her own shape-shifting club beats and electronics, Jessie has created an LGBTQIA anthem that is equal parts poignant, political and playful. (KC)

Tusks – ‘Adore’ remix by I.JORDAN
I loved the evocative, original version of ‘Adore’ by London-based artist Tusks (released back in 2024), lifted from her third album, Gold. This re-imagining by Doncaster-born, London-based DJ I.JORDAN is completely different – fueled by an infectious dance beat – but it still retains the emotive pull of Tusks’ original release. This track will feature on Tusks’ upcoming EP, Gold – The Remixes, due on 1st October via One Little Independent Records. (KC)

Stealing Sheep – ‘Take Me Back’
The latest single from Liverpool’s Stealing Sheep, ‘Take Me Back’ is propelled by glitchy immersive beats as euphoric, swirling synth-driven hooks create a “rave-drenched fever dream”. A playful, ‘80s-inspired ode to surrealist art-pop and the joyous glow of nights spent on dancefloors into the early hours. ‘Take Me Back’ is our first taste of GLO, the band’s upcoming new album. (ML)

Ho99o9 ft. Nova Twins, Pink Siifu, Yung Skrrt – ‘Incline’
A DREAM collaboration here from two personal favourites: rap-punk duo Ho99o9 and alt-heavy icons Nova Twins. The girls’ incendiary riffs perfectly underscore Ho99o9’s visceral verses. The track features on the Ho99o9’s upcoming album, Tomorrow We Escape, which is set for release on 9th September. The record will also feature a contribution from Chelsea Wolfe – I can’t wait to listen to it in full. (KC)

Pets and Doom and Gloom – ‘Mina’
This track from London-based dark electronic duo Pets and Doom and Gloom is peak “Gloomy Grrrl” territory. ‘Mina’ is lifted from the band’s debut EP, Lone and Level, which was released on 5th August to coincide with oil giant BP’s quarterly earnings announcement. The band’s apocalyptic sounds and haunting vocals are their way of pushing back against a damaged world; something that’s epitomised on ‘Mina’ which they describe as “a trip hop tale of vengeance.” (KC)

Tyler Holmes – ‘Copy’
Having first fallen in love with innovative artist Tyler Holmes’ poignant electronic soundscapes back in 2021 when they released their album, Nightmare In Paradise, I was excited to see their name crop up in my inbox again last week. Set to release an experimental new album at the end of the month, over the last few years Holmes has experienced a great deal of change in their life – including the death of a parent and heartbreak – though the new record focuses more on the theme of the natural world and how we accept our place in it. Beautifully interweaving stark reflections into textured soundscapes that evoke both the serene and brutal side of nature, the album is built on the bones of ‘The Southern Reach Trilogy’ by Jeff Vandermeer and ‘No.44, The Mysterious Stranger’ by Mark Twain. Patience, the upcoming new album from Tyler Holmes, is set for release on 26th September via Ratskin Records. (ML)

Sijya – ‘I Only Want To Crash’
Another idiosyncratic, atmospheric soundscape here from South Asian composer, producer and graphic artist Sijya. ‘I Only Want To Crash’ is lifted from Sijya’s upcoming EP, Leather & Brass, which is set for release via One Little Independent Records on 12th September. The track evolved from an instrumental to include her ambiguous lyrical motifs, affording Sijya the emotional release she craves. (KC)

feeo – ‘The Mountain’
London experimental artist feeo is new to me, but I was transfixed by her calm voice and ambient drone sounds on this single ‘The Mountain’. Released via label AD 93, the track is inspired by the “dualities of the natural world” and how it can be both brutal and beautiful. (KC)

VERA SACRA – ‘Burning’
I found listening to this soundscape from experimental cellist, vocalist and producer VERA SACRA strangely soothing. Lifted from her debut EP, sacred spring, released via EMI North & Launchpad+, ‘Burning’ is a beautiful reflection on the artist’s “fractured yet vivid inner world.” She wrote and recorded her EP whilst travelling between Latvia, Estonia, London, & Sheffield, whilst also struggling with psychosis at the time. The result is a glitchy but captivating collection of tracks that showcase her immense talent. (KC)

The New Eves – ‘Astrolabe’
Congratulations to Brighton-based four-piece The New Eves who released their debut album, The New Eve Is Rising, earlier this month! The band blew us away with their unique live performance of what they have coined as “Hagstone Rock” when we saw them at The Great Escape Festival earlier this year and we can’t wait to catch them again at their headline show at London’s Hoxton Hall on 7th October. (KC)

Daffo – ‘Dagger Song’
Set to release their debut album later this month, Gabi Gamberg – aka Daffo – has shared stirring new single ‘Dagger Song’. I’m such a big fan of the LA based artist and the sparkling, heartfelt emotion that seeps through all they create; even more so since seeing them live at The Great Escape this year. Watching them alongside Hanni and Clara from ARXX and Rach from Comic Sans was a big highlight of the weekend for me! Their debut album, Where The Earth Bends, is out on 26th September via Concord Records, and they will be playing a few dates in the UK in October, including The Lower Third in London on 31st October – a nice Halloween gig. (ML)

The Cords – ‘I’m Not Sad’
The latest single from Scottish duo The Cords, ‘I’m Not Sad’ offers a perfectly upbeat, short and sweet blast of joyous energy. Propelled by a lilting surf-pop energy and singalong refrains, it’s a gloriously glistening slice of indie-pop with shades of the likes of fellow Scots Camera Obscura or Belle and Sebastian. I can’t wait for the release of their debut album on 26th September via Skep Wax Records. (ML)

The Schla La Las – ‘1234’
A supergroup of sorts, lead by Piney Gir, The Schla La Las built up a reputation for their joyous live shows within the indie-rock scene of the early noughties. Now, after being away from our ears for eighteen years, they have returned with a wonderfully uplifting new single. Showcasing their punky, poppy energy and sugar-sweet allure perfectly, ‘1234’ is accompanied by a super cute, strangely empowering, lego-stop motion video for the song. Find out more on our premiere feature here. You can witness the sparkling allure of The Schla La Las live at Dream Bags Jaguar Shows on 15th November. (ML)

jasmine.4.t – ‘Woman’
GIHE favourite jasmine.4.t has recently shared a heartfelt fan film to accompany her song ‘Woman’. Of the song and video, she explains: “We wanted to show the world this queer love and solidarity, to show the world that trans people are loved, to show the world all of the beautiful responses we have to trans art. So we put out a call for video clips from fans of them responding to ‘Woman’, singing, playing, dancing. We edited the clips into this, a fan video for the song and I can’t believe how beautifully it has turned out.”

Watch the incredibly beautiful video and please have a look at the information shared by Not A Phase about the recent EHRC proposals for the mandatory exclusion of trans people from gendered spaces, the terrifying consequences this could have and next steps that we can take to stop it being put into effect. You could also donate to The Good Law Project who run loads of great campaigns and are challenging the Supreme Court’s ruling to overturn the Equality Act, as it seeks to take away further rights of trans people – breaking actual Human Rights Laws. (ML)

Ailsa Tully – ‘Choosing’
Following recent releases ‘Self Soothing’ and ‘Womb Room’, Welsh artist Ailsa Tully has now shared stirring new single ‘Choosing’. Written shortly after her father passed away, it offers a poignant reflection on moving and feeling unsettled; a plea for some stability. As a dark ethereal splendour shimmers alongside its lilting folk-strewn musicality, the heartfelt grace and twinkling delicate emotion of Ailsa’s celestial vocals shines throughout. A truly beautiful new offering, that I’m pleased to say is being shared with the world at a time when Ailsa is feeling more settled and has found somewhere – with someone she loves – that she feels able to call home. (ML)

Madison Cunningham – ‘My Full Name’
Ahead of the release of her new album next month, LA songwriter Madison Cunningham has shared ‘My Full Name’. A vulnerable reflection on heartbreak and loss, her sweeping crystalline vocals float alongside twinkling keys with a soaring delicate emotion. Ace, the upcoming album from Madison Cunningham, is set for release on 10th October. (ML)

Hand Habits – ‘Bluebird Of Happiness’
Having recently released their poignant new album, Meg Duffy – aka Hand Habits’ – latest single ‘Bluebird Of Happiness’ interweaves their distinctive rich vocals with fuzzy layers of sound amidst a shimmering subtle optimism. Of the track, they comment: “One day my partner asked what birdsong we were hearing through the window and I was like, ‘well that’s the bluebird of happiness obviously,’ and it became a joke song I would sing around the house, but then it grew wings… I also got curious about the history of the bluebird of happiness, and found that it has mythological significance.” Blue Reminder, the new album from Hand Habits, is out now via Fat Possum. (ML)

Kate Stables, Jesca Hoop, Lail Arad – ‘Raised On Robbery’
Having been lucky enough to attend a special Songs Of Joni Mitchell event at The Roundhouse last year, I was excited to hear that organiser Lail Arad, along with fellow artists Kate Stables (This Is The Kit) and Jesca Hoop, are set to release an EP of Joni covers this week to accompany their tour this autumn, continuing their heartwarming ode to the music of one of the world’s most inspirational artists. As a life-long fan of Joni, and a many-years-fan of these three artists, it’s such a joy to hear them celebrating her work, and creating their own sparkling renditions of some of my most favourite songs. They will be playing Shepherd’s Bush Empire on 13th November, along with a big run of UK dates throughout the autumn. The Songs Of Joni Mitchell Vol 1, the upcoming EP, is out on Friday 12th September. (ML)

LISTEN: GIHE on Soho Radio with Jessica Winter (24.07.25)

Tash and Kate were back in the Soho Radio studio bringing listeners their usual eclectic mix of new music tunes from some of their favourite female, non-binary and LGBTQIA+ artists. Mari offered the team some of her “musical musings” too!

They were joined by London-based pop darling Jessica Winter, who spoke about her debut full length release, My First Album, her upcoming UK tour dates in October (including a London headline show at The Lower Third in Soho on 28th October) and the inspirations behind all of her wonderful alt-pop creations. She also spoke candidly about the hard earned patience and resilience she’s developed during the process of creating an album that feels true to her authentic self.

Towards the end of the show, the team shared a special track by genre-fluid non-binary artist Naafi, who contributed to The Sound Of Trans Freedom audio project, produced by Aunt Nell aka our very own Tash Walker!

The piece follows the journey of four trans sound-artists into the archive of Press for Change, a formative lobbying group that brought about the Gender Recognition Act. Tash asked the sound artists to use their imaginations to bring to life letters from trans people who wrote to Press for Change in the 90s and early 00s. journey of four trans sound artists into the archive of Press for Change, a formative lobbying group that brought about the Gender Recognition Act. Tash asked the sound artists to use their imaginations to bring to life letters from trans people who wrote to Press for Change in the 90s and early 00s.

As Tash explains: “The piece looks back into our trans histories whilst holding space for what we are fighting for when it comes to trans rights today, a world that should hold space for trans people to not just survive but thrive.”

Listen back below:

 

We’ll be back on Soho Radio on Thursday 21st August from 4-6pm (BST)
 Make sure you tune in via DAB or the new Soho Radio app!
You can also listen at www.sohoradiolondon.com

Tracklist
Beverley Glenn-Copeland – La Vita
Baby Rose – That’s All
Elaine Mai ft. Faye O’Rourke – Aim
Tiiva – you and i
**The Great Escape Festival Interview Clip – Maria Uzor**
TTSSFU – Call U Back
Aether Speaker – That’s For The Nosebleed
LOBSTERBOMB – Nightbird
Sprints – Descartes
Jessica Winter – Big Star
**Interview with Jessica Winter**
Joy Crookes – Perfect Crime
simplesong – 1-800 GIRLS
Elkka – Make Me
JPL, A Girl Named Sue, Billy Otto, Tora – I Am (Tash’s Track Of The Show)
Blue Loop – The Knife (Kate’s Track Of The Show)
Problem Patterns – I’m Fine and I’m Doing Great (Mari’s Track Of The Show)
Starling – I Can Be Convinced
Moonchild Sanelly – Falling
Automatic – Is It Now?
UPCHUCK – Forgotten Token
Snowapple Collective – My Body
Mr. Beale – Gilded
Rubie – Death By Catgirl
Ruby Doomsday – Blood and Thunder
Naafi’s Contribution to The Sound Of Trans Freedom project by Aunt Nell
Planningtorock – Transome