PLAYLIST: February 2026

The Get In Her Ears team have put together another eclectic mix of new music for your listening pleasure. Our February Playlist features riff-heavy anthems, shoegaze & dream-pop tunes, indie and alt-pop bangers, electronic musings and experimental sounds. Scroll through 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! You’ll also see that we’ve copied all of our previous GIHE playlists over to TIDAL as well. We’ve included YouTube/bandcamp links for all of the tracks below too, 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. Happy listening!

CLICK HERE TO LISTEN ON TIDAL

 

The Echograms – ‘Lovesick’
Having played live for us last year at The Cavendish Arms, Margate based Claire Pitt-Wigmore and her band The Echograms deliver swirling ‘bluegaze’ soundscapes with a gritty raw emotion. Taken from their debut EP, ‘Lovesick’ glistens with a fizzing atmospheric allure and fierce riffs, offering an immersive reflection on limerance and the realisation that people often don’t live up to our expectations of them. With its intricate and captivating musicality, this debut signals The Echograms as definite ones to watch.
(Mari Lane – Managing Editor)

VERO – ‘Dead Train’
Another month, another excellent single from Stockholm trio VERO. ‘Dead Train’ is the third track to be lifted from the band’s upcoming second album, Razor Tongue, set for release on 20th March via PNKSLM. Their new record is inspired by their restless, urgent spirit and I think that translates perfectly through their brooding, grunge-inspired riffs and angst-ridden vocals. VERO will be playing a London headline show at The Shacklewell Arms on 26th March. I can’t wait to hear these tracks in the flesh! (Kate Crudgington – Features Editor)

Pixie Cut Rhythm Orchestra – ‘I’ve Been Here Before’
I’ve been a big fan of Dublin’s Pixie Cut Rhythm Orchestra since Irish musician Fears recommended them to us on our Soho Radio show in 2021. I’m thrilled that they’re back with new single ‘I’ve Been Here Before’, which is a gritty reflection on the “performative lifestyles and the instability of modern city living”. As always, Sarah Deegan’s witty and cutting lyricism shines through, thanks to her distinctive vocals and the grinding riffs that underscore them. (KC)

Blackwater Holylight – ‘Bodies’
Having recently released their fourth album, Not Here Not Gone, LA based Blackwater Holylight combine dreamy psych-tinged soundscapes with a fierce power to create a sound that is entirely their own. Taken from the album, latest single ‘Bodies’ showcases the band’s ability to interweave immense, doom-laden soundscapes with an immersive transcendental majesty. Read about some of the albums that inspire drummer Eliese Dorsay the most in our recent Five Favourites feature. (ML)

Kathryn Mohr – ‘Property’
Oakland-based artist Kathryn Mohr is adept at capturing a heavy mood in her music and her latest single ‘Property’ is no exception. Lifted from her upcoming second album, Carve, which is set for release on 17th April via The Flenser, it’s an “amalgamation of dream images and visions” that Kathryn had throughout 2025, drenched in reverb and full of her potent vocals. Her upcoming record is a poignant reflection on love, grief, intimacy and isolation and how these things inform our understanding of ourselves over time. (KC)

Topsy Turvy – ‘Five Guitars’
Galvanized by their frustrations at the behaviour of a male touring musician in their hometown music scene, Vienna-based DIY rock trio Topsy Turvy penned their new album, the excellently titled Fighting the Ginormous Macho Nacho, in righteous retaliation. Set for release on 23rd May via Siluh Records, the album blends their garage-punk, psych-rock influences with upfront lyricism and direct vocals, with single ‘Five Guitars’ perfectly showcasing their new-found anarchic attitude. (KC)

Charley Stone – ‘Forever Your Love’
With February traditionally being a time to celebrate romance, GIHE fave Charley Stone has decided to share a lilting ode to unrequited love. As shimmering hooks fizz alongside Stone’s distinctive honey-sweet vocals and playful tongue-in-cheek lyricism, ‘Forever Your Love’ reflects on feelings of longing from a hopeless romantic for something unattainable. (ML)

Top Shortage – ‘Susan Stryker’
Having become a leading figure in Oxford’s queer community and DIY scene before even officially releasing any music, Top Shortage have now shared their first proper single. Oozing a fierce raw emotion with a driving post-punk energy, ‘Susan Stryker’ draws on an excerpt from transfeminist theorist Susan Stryker’s 1994 essay, My Words to Victor Frankenstein Above the Village of Chamonix, with a striking, impassioned drive. Pushing against the notion of bodies, sex and gender as natural and immutable, the track offers a timely and cathartic anthem calling for trans liberation. Vocalist Noa expands: “Trans people are so often seen as monstrous by a bigoted society – the essay, and this song, reclaims that monstrosity and makes it a rallying cry.’ (ML)

Lemonade Sin – ‘Murmurs and Creaks’
Consisting of members you may recognise from other bands over the years, London-via-Devon quintet Lemonade Sin create catchy slices of indie-pop based around the songwriting partnership of Lee Friese-Greene (Sidi Bou Said, Soup, Short-Haired Domestic) and Simon Aldous (Umbrella Heaven). With the addition of Jennifer Denitto (BCOS RSNS, Linus), Charlotte Beale (Joan, Soup) and Robin Morgan (Umbrella Heaven, Joan) to complete the line-up, they’re now set to release their third album this Spring. Our first taste of the album comes in the form of latest single ‘Murmurs and Creaks’. Inspired by the fictional pairing of Jane Eyre and Edward Rochester, it interweaves motorik rhythms with swirling synth patterns and distinctive vocal harmonies to create a driving, Stereolab-reminiscent indie-pop anthem. (ML)

WIDGET – ‘Chamois Leather’
Following on from their self-titled debut EP in 2024, East London post-punk supergroup (featuring members of Big Joanie, all cats are beautiful, Junodef and Zahra Haji Fath Ali Tehrani) WIDGET have now shared a genre-bending new single. Fusing together funk-fuelled hooks with a fierce groove and Ky’s stark spoken word vocals, the track cements this awesome collective as definite ones to watch, and we cannot wait for them to headline for us at New River Studios on 13th March, with support from Coventry jazz-punk band The Genes and DIY newcomers Lunar Riot. Tickets are on Dice now and as always, they are cheaper in advance – it’s going to be a lot of fun, hope to see you there! (ML)

Gemas – ‘Hola’
This joyful slice of grunge-tinged dream-pop comes courtesy of Costa Rica-based DIY band Gemas. Taken from the band’s recent EP, Miedo a perder (which roughly translates as “Fear Of Losing”), this track ‘Hola’ deftly captures their self-defined “soft but restless, intimate but charged” energy. (KC)

Lauren Auder – ‘Praxis’
I’m still hammering London-based composer and producer Lauren Auder’s track ‘the ripple’ (my favourite from her 2023 debut album, the infinite spine) but I’m ultra pleased to see that she’s back releasing brand new music. ‘Praxis’ is lifted from her upcoming second album, Whole World As Vigil, which is set for release on 27th March via untitled. I love her rich, sensual voice and her innovative layering of synths, vocals and samples here – including the sound of a power drill cutting through metal! (KC)

Miss Grit – ‘Stranger’
This shape-shifting alt-pop tune from New York-based, Korean-American musician Miss Grit is taken from their upcoming new album, Under My Umbrella, which is set for release on 24th April via Mute. ‘Stranger’ is Miss Grit’s attempt to escape feelings of betrayal, underscored by contrasting synth textures, compelling beat changes and their translucent vocals. (KC)

ESYA – ‘Heaven’
I was so happy to see new music from ESYA – the solo project of Ayse Hassan (Savages, Kite Base, 180db) – in my GIHE inbox! This single ‘Heaven’ is lifted from her upcoming debut album, Chasing Desire, which is set for release on 10th April via AOK records. It’s an industrial-tinged soundscape, blending ESYA’s yearning vocals with atmospheric synths and propulsive rhythms. Her previous EP releases were captivating collections of eclectic sound and I expect that her debut full length offering will be equally as impressive. (KC)

TEll A ViSiON – ‘IDLU’
Propelled by terse tribal beats and a fierce driving energy, ‘IDLU’ is the latest single from genre-defying Berlin-based artist TEll A ViSiON. A play on words, with the title being an acronym for ‘I Don’t Like You’, the track offers a visceral statement of empowerment and freedom, emanating a raw emotion and gritty sense of urgency. (ML)

Maria BC – ‘Rare’
Another ambient shoegaze gem from American artist Maria BC here. Taken from their upcoming third album, Marathon, which is set for release on 27th February via Sacred Bones, ‘Rare’ is Maria’s sonic rumination on insomnia and romantic infatuation. “This is a song about being in love with someone who never sleeps,” they comment. “I’m proud of the chaotic arrangement – the skittering percussion, the discordant twang of my ancient zither.” Maria has expanded their sonic palette even further on their upcoming release, and I’m looking forward to listening to it in full. (KC)

Laura Misch – ‘Echoes’
I first became aware of saxophonist and composer Laura Misch when London-based artist afromerm recommended her to us on our Soho Radio show back in 2023. Since then, she has consistently impressed me with all that she’s released, and her latest single ‘Echoes’ is no exception. Described as a “transportive saxophone and voice-led meditation,” the track is lifted from her second album, Lithic, which is set for release on 5th June via iconic label One Little Independent Records. ‘Echoes’ was inspired by Laura’s equally profound reactions to observing both the ancient Paleolithic figurines of the mythic Venus, and the instinctive sense of “wonder” she also felt watching her friend’s baby crawling across the floor. To celebrate the release of her new album, Laura will play her biggest headline show to date at London’s Barbican on 3rd July. (KC)

Lauren Von Bülow – ‘Black Beach’
Inspired by a deep connection to her natural surroundings on the South coast of England, ‘Black Beach’ is the debut single from Hastings-based songwriter Lauren Von Bülow. It’s an atmospheric, emotionally charged offering that sees her blend introspective lyrics with shadowy electronics and brooding vocals. ‘Black Beach’ is also accompanied by a music video that Lauren filmed locally, which you can watch below. (KC)

Monday’s Child – ‘Over Again’
A bittersweet declaration of pure love, ‘Over Again’ is the latest single from Belfast-based band Monday’s Child. It’s their first piece of new music since the release of their debut EP, Modern Affair (2025), full of dramatic fluctuations in rhythm in volume, reflecting the emotional turbulence that underpinned the track’s conception. Speaking about ‘Over Again’, lead vocalist Jen says: “This song was as difficult to write as it is to describe – it is a deeply introspective and personal look at my doubts and fears in the face of a pure love, and trying to decipher whether or not these thoughts are worth paying heed to or are just a normal part of relationships”. (KC)

Misty Coast – ‘Hallucinating’
I love this warm, hazy new track from Norwegian psych-pop duo Misty Coast. Formed of Linn Frøkedal and Richard Myklebust (from noise-rock outfit The Megaphonic Thrift), together they blend soft vocals with breezy synths and riffs to create their melodic musings. “‘Hallucinating’ is about trying to filter out what’s real in a chaos of noise and dopamine factories competing for your attention,” the band explain, “When the unrest and distractions become so overwhelming that you can no longer think your own thoughts, it’s time to hit the brakes.” (KC)

Dayydream – ‘Proximity’
Glasgow-based independent artist Chloe Trappes aka dayydream is gearing up to release her new EP, Trace, on 13th March. The follow up to her 2022 debut Bittersweet, the five track EP traces Chloe’s development as a songwriter and as a young adult, informed by a strong sense of nostalgia. This single ‘Proximity’ is a fitting introduction to her softer sound. Backed by a full band, she articulates sentiments about coming-of-age beautifully. (KC)

Leonor Arnaut – ‘Avé, Raposa’
Following her hypnotic debut single ‘Vida Cega’, Portuguese artist Leonor Arnaut has now returned to grace our ears with a stirring new offering. Made in LA under the mentorship and production assistance of Julia Holter and exploring themes of choice and desire, drawing on the possible symbolism of the fox in Phoebe Waller-Bridge’s series ‘Fleabag’, ‘Avé, Raposa’ ripples with an effervescent swirling majesty as Arnaut’s beautifully rich, celestial vocals soar. An exquisite insight into what to expect from this innovative new artist. (ML)

Montauk Hotel – ‘Never Quiet’
A melodic exploration of sensory overload in a chaotic world, ‘Never Quiet’ is the latest single from Dublin-based band Montauk Hotel. Through their considered lyricism and buoyant dream-pop riffs, the band extrapolate on the feelings of alienation that come from “living in a loud world where technology and political agendas distract from empathy and truth.” Recorded by the band in their home studio and mixed by Ryan McGroarty from Beauty Sleep, ‘Never Quiet’ gently distracts listeners from these overwhelming thoughts. (KC)

Sister Ghost – ‘Not Your Toy’
Having been a big fan of Northern Irish DIY rocker Shannon Delores O’Neill – aka Sister Ghost – for a number of years now, we’re super excited that she’s set to release a brand new EP this Spring. Taken from the EP, recorded in LA alongside producer Brad Wood (Liz Phair, Veruca Salt, Smashing Pumpkins, Placebo) and drummer Jeff Friedl (A Perfect Circle, DEVO), new single ‘Not Your Toy’ offers an empowering ode to survivors of coercive control whilst showcasing O’Neill’s seething, soaring power. Reflecting on the track, she explains: “Whilst it’s sadly very likely to be the case that many listeners will also identify with the subject matter, it’s my sincere hope that by being vocal about it we can help call out these coercive behaviours and reclaim our collective power.” (ML)

No Drama – ‘Doorstep’
This cathartic track from Toulouse-based indie punks No Drama is inspired by the brevity and in-continuity of relationships. It’s taken from their new EP, Isolated Areas, which is set for release on 6th March via Hidden Bay Records. Together, Christèle Gaye (drums), Manon Raupp (guitars, vocals, bass) and Daniel Selig (guitars, vocals) create loud, commanding alt-anthems that help to relieve the pressure of the grind of everyday life. (KC)

 

Shallow Honey – ‘The Bear’
Recently blowing us away with their fierce charisma and playful charm when playing live at The Waiting Room last month, Sussex band Shallow Honey have now released a raging new single. Released as an ‘anti-valentines’ anthem, ‘The Bear’ offers a gritty reflection on those men who became inexplicably furious and defensive over the conversation meant to highlight the safety issues faced by women and girls. An incredibly resonant and necessary subject right now, the track showcases the band’s ability to combine their trademark tongue-in-cheek wit with a ferocious riot grrrl-inspired energy. (ML)

Pondlife – ‘Cello’
Having just announced the release of a new EP later this year, London slacker rockers Pondlife have now shared title track ‘Cello’. Propelled by scuzzy hooks and swirling atmospherics, it’ll draw you in with a wistful allure, offering a hazy insight into the band’s shoegaze tinged soundscapes. (ML)

K Maybe – ‘Skin Hungry’
The latest single from Surrey band K Maybe, ‘Skin Hungry’ reflects on feelings of loneliness and that longing for human touch with a driving, relentless energy. As screaming guitars are juxtaposed with the delicate sense of melancholy that oozes through the lyrics, it offers an instantly catchy slice of stirring alt-rock. (ML)

Frances Murray – ‘Adults’
Essex-born, Brighton-based musician and producer Frances Murray – who used to go by the name BLAB – is back with brand new music! This single ‘Adults’ is taken from her upcoming debut solo album, Dreamer, which she’ll be self-releasing on 10th April. It’s a witty take on her “quarter life crisis” – something anyone over the age of 25 can definitely relate to. (KC)

 

CLICK HERE TO LISTEN ON TIDAL

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LISTEN: GIHE on Soho Radio with YAKKIE (05.02.26)

Tash, Kate and Mari were back on Soho Radio celebrating their 11 year anniversary and bringing listeners another eclectic mix of new music tunes from some of their favourite female, non-binary and LGBTQIA+ artists.

They also celebrated the launch of Tash’s new book! Published via the esteemed Faber, The Log Books is an “intimate exploration of inter-generational queer heritage, charting four decades of LGBTQ+ life in Britain through the call logs of a charity helpline.” Tash spoke about the launch event at Royal Vauxhall Tavern and their upcoming UK book tour – full details of which can be found here.

Janey and Robin from independent punk band YAKKIE also joined them live on air to talk about their highly anticipated debut album, Kill The Cop Inside Your Head – due on 13th February. A heavy album for heavy times, Janey spoke eloquently about the inspirations behind the record and how it’s important to remain hopeful and support each other in the face of oppression and injustice. Robin also discussed the “sick riffs” that soundtrack YAKKIE’s manifesto and they both performed acoustic versions of their latest single ‘He Sleeps Alone’ and new album track ‘Secrets’.

YAKKIE will be playing a London headline show at The Victoria in Dalston on 21st March to celebrate the release of Kill The Cop Inside Your Head. Grab a ticket here.

Listen back below:

 

We’ll be back on Soho Radio on Thursday 5th March from 16:00-18:00
Make sure you tune in via DAB or download the Soho Radio app.
You can also listen at www.sohoradio.com

Tracklist
Tom Rasmussen – There’s A Lot To Be Happy About
Planningtorock x Bronski Beat – Smalltown Boy
deary – Seabird
Sade – Young Lion
Pixie Cut Rhythm Orchestra – I’ve Been Here Before
The Echograms – Lovesick
pem – milk, blue
Gretel – Squish
Lucky Iris – fall in love with the DJ
Lauren Auder – Praxis
Frances Murray – Adults
VERO – Dead Train
DJ Sophie Stirling – The Log Books mix
YAKKIE – Kill The Cop Inside Your Head
** Interview with YAKKIE **
** YAKKIE acoustic performance of ‘He Sleeps Alone’ & ‘Secrets’ **
Upchuck – Freaky
1-800 GIRLS ft. Council – eye contact (Tash’s Track Of The Show)
dayydream – Proximity (Kate’s Track Of The Show)
Fightmilk – Sounds Like A You Problem (Mari’s Track Of The Show)
HAWXX – Resistance Is Justified
Scarebears – Scapegoat
Junk Whale – Lime n Soda
Radhika – Starry Eyes
Tenderness – The Salt Flats

Kate CrudgingtonLeave a comment

LISTEN: GIHE on Soho Radio with Whitelands (08.01.26)

For our first radio show of 2026, Tash and Kate were back on Soho Radio bringing listeners an eclectic mix of new music tunes from some of their favourite female, non-binary and LGBTQIA+ artists. Mari offered some of her “musical musings” too!

Etienne, Jagun & Vanessa from London-based shoegaze band Whitelands also joined the team live on air to talk about their highly anticipated upcoming second album, Sunlight Echoes – due on 30th January via Sonic Cathedral.

The trio reflected on how far they’ve come since they were guests on our show back in 2024, as well as the the many ways in which the band have developed and expanded their sound over the past two years. They also shared the poignant inspiration behind their latest single ‘Blankspace‘ and spoke openly about the themes of friendship, grief and memory which heavily influenced the songwriting on Sunlight Echoes.

Whitelands are currently gearing up for their first ever UK headline tour, including a show at Moth Club in East London on 26th February. Grab a ticket here.

Listen back below:

 

We’ll be back on Soho Radio on Thursday 5th February from 16:00-18:00
Make sure you tune in via DAB or download the Soho Radio app.
You can also listen at www.sohoradio.com

Tracklist
Dolly Parton – Dumb Blonde
Hercules and Love Affair, Hips & Lips – That’s Not How to Love
Silk Daisys – nervous wreck
VERO – Calico
Whitelands – Blankspace
Whitelands – Glance
TTSSFU – Upstairs
Maddie Ashman – Seraphim
AE MAK – We Came From Stars
Ailbhe Reddy – So Quickly, Baby
Kareen Lomax – idea of you
Alice Costelloe – Move On With The Year
Mi.el – Grains Of Sand
Softcult – Queen Of Nothing
Robyn – Dopamine (Jamiexx remix) (Tash’s Track Of The Show)
YELF. – loud (Kate’s Track Of The Show)
Midori Jaeger – Dark Green (Mari’s Track Of The Show)
Hadda Be – New To The Office
Ms Mohammed – Ring The Alarm
YAKKIE – Kill The Cop Inside Your Head
Maria BC – Marathon
Elin Hall – As The World Falls Down
Aether Speaker – End Credits
SOFIA ISELLA – Hot Gum

Kate Crudgington1 Comment

GIHE: Tracks Of 2025

With another hard-going year behind us, we’ve continued to seek comfort in new music released by our favourite hard-working and talented artists. There’s been an immense amount of incredible new music released, so we want to shed some light on some of the tunes that got us through the hard times, accompanied the good times & generally saw us through 2025.

To start our annual end of year round-ups, we’re sharing our Tracks Of 2025 ahead of features on our Favourite Albums & EPs, Personal Highlights and Ones To Watch in 2026.

Have a read about some of the tunes we’ve been loving the most, and make sure you hit play on the accompanying Tidal playlist to hear just how fantastic they all are! Please do follow the artists you love on all platforms; download their music, buy their merch, go see them live and continue to spread the word about how wonderful they are!

The Baby Seals – ‘Tamoo Trance’
Having been super mega fans of Cambridgeshire feminist punks The Baby Seals since they first played live for us back in 2017, and having recently had them back to play at our joyous 10th birthday celebrations, we were very excited to have new music from them in the latter part of this year. A fierce take-down of consumer capitalism, combining the band’s trademark playful tongue-in-cheek wit with a gritty raging energy, ‘Tamoo Trance’ offers a seething anthem about getting stuck in a trance-like state in an (obviously completely fictitious) online shop. So, throughout 2026, instead of spending money on stuff that “will go directly in the bin”, perhaps consider supporting your fave DIY artists on bandcamp, or going along to a nice local gig. Rumour has it that The Baby Seals have a new album coming next year… We can’t wait!
(Mari Lane – Managing Editor)

Whitelands – ‘Glance’
London-based shoegaze band Whitelands are firm favourites here at GIHE, and the release of this track ‘Glance’ has only cemented that further. Lifted from their upcoming second album, Sunlight Echoes, due on 30th January 2026 via Sonic Cathedral, ‘Glance’ shimmers with the band’s trademark sensitivity, whilst simultaneously showcasing a lusher dream-pop influence on their songwriting. Vocalist and guitarist Etienne penned this track after moving through a period of both heartbreak and writer’s block. These frustrations and elations are mirrored in the romantic lyrics and the band’s blissful, captivating melodies.
(Kate Crudgington – Features Editor)

Sister Ghost – ‘Drain You’
Sister Ghost’s ‘Drain You’ leans hard into a ’90s grunge sound, channelling the spirit of Garbage and Hole with a gritty, playful edge. The video, shot dancing around Joshua Tree, worlds away from the band’s native Derry, adds to its sense of freedom. It’s driven by a big, instantly catchy chorus, wrapped in a thick wall of sound that hits with Shannon’s confident vocals.
(Ella Patenall – Contributor)

HAVVK – ‘Happening Again’
Having played our first ever GIHE gig back in 2016, we’ve been such huge fans of Irish duo HAVVK ever since and I was so excited to have them back in our ears with this swirling single. A gritty and cathartic reflection on destructive patterns of behaviour, ‘Happening Again’ showcases the band’s ability to combine a fierce seething energy with the soaring, captivating allure of Julie’s raw vocals. I can’t wait to hear more new music from them very soon. (ML)

PostLast – ‘Scavenge’ (Birthday Problem remix)
Irish indie label VETA Records have provided me with some of my favourite new music this year, including this superb collaboration from alt-pop duo Post Last and electronic duo Birthday Problem. I’ve been following both bands for a while, so I was thrilled to see them working together here on this eclectic remix. Soft vocals and intriguing electronic textures combine to make this version of ‘Scavenge’ a real sonic gem. (KC)

Jouska – ‘Season Of Dread’
Taken from her album, How Did I Wind Up Here?, released in October, Norwegian artist Jouska has a talent for transforming feelings of vulnerability into graceful musical ruminations. ‘Season Of Dread’ was inspired by a time when she felt like she was “stuck inside a winter that wouldn’t end – both emotionally and physically.” I always admire artists who are able to work through heavy emotions in their music and Jouska manages that adroitly here. (KC)

Dogviolet – ‘Dandelion’ 
The first of two singles released this year by ones to watch, and long time faves, Dogviolet, ‘Dandelion’ offers an empowering ode to resilience and resistance, to the power of community – likening people to the flower, under-valued but vital to the ecosystem. I just love the understated power of the repeated refrain “to exist is to resist”, and feel like this song perfectly encapsulates the captivating, gritty grunge-fuelled power of the band. I’ve loved the band a lot since they played their first ever gig for us a few years back, and was super happy that they were able to be a part of our 10th birthday celebrations in September. I’m really excited about what they have in store for us next year! (ML)

The Dead Zoo – ‘Bruise’
Having released their debut album back in July, and wowing us all with their fiercely joyous energy headlining a packed out launch show at New River Studios back in June, this year has been a big one for long-term faves The Dead Zoo. With the album’s release, they showcased their ability to create immersive, brooding soundscapes, reflecting on both the pain and triumph of transformation. Combining swirling atmospherics with ’80s-inspired dark basslines, and with the gritty power of front woman Kaoru Sato’s vocals resonating throughout, ‘Bruise’ offers a pulsating, multi-layered soundscape that will captivate the senses on first listen. (ML)

BACKXWASH – ‘Wake Up’
I love the raw power behind this shape-shifting offering from Zambian-Canadian rapper and producer BACKXWASH. ‘Wake Up’ is taken from her album, Only Dust Remains, which she released via her own label Ugly Hag (great name!) in March. ‘Wake Up’ permeated my consciousness, thanks to its direct lyricism and BACKWASH’s uncompromising vocal delivery. (KC)

After London – ‘Alive’
The track opens with an urgent, ravey synth line before dropping into pounding drums that drive it forward. Punchy spoken-word vocals ooze attitude, keeping the verses sparse and tense. When fat, fuzzy guitars hit, the energy lifts again. Sharp wordplay ties together spoken word, rave textures and a badass punk attitude. (EP)

Tiiva – ‘you and i’
‘you and i’ is the title track from electronic artist & producer Tiiva’s debut album, which they released via Moth Day Records in June this year. It deftly showcases Tiiva’s talent for blending euphoric pulsing beats with their soft vocals and ambient electronics to create a listening experience that’s joyful and all-encompassing. (KC)

Jessie Mac – ‘Trans Is Beautiful’
A powerful and incredibly catchy “sonic statement” from South East London trans DJ, producer and label owner Jessie Mac here. By sampling the words of American actress & LGBTQ activist Laverne Cox and combining them with her own shape-shifting club-inspired beats, Jessie has created an LGBTQIA anthem that is equal parts poignant, political and playful. She’s a firm new favourite here at GIHE and we’re looking forward to hearing more from her in the future. (KC)

Beauty Sleep – ‘Radical Happiness’
Having signed to Alcopop! Records for their second album The Whole Damn Cake back in October, Derry faves Beauty Sleep came over to London to celebrate its release last month, and we were lucky enough to have them headline for us at The Cavendish Arms. It was such a joyous night oozing all the colourful, queer energy we so need right now (and some very tasty actual vegan cake!); it felt really special to have them here with us, and with support from Dream Phone and Lein Sangster. Fizzing with a glitchy energy and swirling uplifting emotion, album “theme song” ‘Radical Happiness’ offers a twinkling, empowering ode to self care and embracing doing things that bring you joy. (ML)

Sacred Paws – ‘Turn Me Down’
After a five year hiatus, the return of Scottish duo Ray and Eidlih – aka Sacred Paws – this year was a big highlight for me. Taken from the latest album, Jump Into Life, ‘Turn Me Down’  reflects on the rawness of rejection; juxtaposing this poignant sentiment with the duo’s trademark jangly energy and colourful musicality. Ray Aggs from the band was actually due to play our 10th Birthday all-dayer in September, but sadly couldn’t make it due to illness, so we really hope to see them back in London again sometime in 2026 – their gig for us at The Shacklewell Arms last year was one of the most joyous and fun! (ML)

Cheerbleederz – ‘I deserved better’
With the release of their gorgeous EP (prove me wrong) via Alcopop! Recordsin September, indie-pop supergroup and long-time faves cheerbleederz have continued to cement themselves as one of my most favourite bands. An uplifting ode to knowing your self-worth, ‘i deserved better’ offers all the sparkling, jangly melodies and scuzzy emotion you could ever need, plus a perfect singalong chorus – as Kathryn from the band says, “The chorus doesn’t even have any real words, but sometimes you don’t need em!”. (ML)

Gay Skeleton Club – ‘Summertime (Free Palestine)’
We’ve made no secret of our love of Gay Skeleton Club since they formed at First Timers Fest a couple of years ago, and we feel super lucky to have had them play live for us numerous times – each time bringing such a cute queer joy, and unifying sparkling charm. Following wonderfully catchy singles like ‘2 cats’ and ‘w3t l3g’, the release of ‘Summertime (Free Palestine)’ this year showcased how the band have honed and developed their sound into something fuller both musically and lyrically, whilst still maintaining their playful witty charm that we’ve come to know and love so much. I’m really looking forward to seeing what Gay Skeleton Club have coming up in 2026! (ML)

Tamara & The Dreams – ‘Successful Bisexual’
When I received an email back in March about a track called ‘Successful Bisexual’, I had to open it immediately… It’s an energy I’m forever trying to channel, and this single from Australian artist Tamara & The Dreams offers a perfectly heartfelt ode to self-discovery and embracing who you truly are as you get older. I was lucky enough to catch her when she was over in the UK back in the summer, and their lilting jangly energy and catchy uplifting charm was everything I needed and affirmed her place as one of my favourite artists of the last year. (ML)

nazire – ‘junebug’
A woozy guitar tune from Istanbul-based shoegaze artist nazire here. I was immediately hooked on her lullaby-like vocals and all-encompassing use of reverb on ‘junebug’. She’s currently working on her debut album, Glitchfolk, which she will release at some point in the near future. I will be keeping my eyes and ears peeled for that. (KC)

Better Joy – ‘steamroller’
Taken from October’s EP, dusk, ‘steamroller’ offers a defiant anthem about reclaiming strength in the face of loss from Manchester-based Bria Keely, aka Better Joy. Whirring with fuzzy hooks as Keely’s sugar-sweet vocals flow with a sparkling emotion, it’s an instant, completely dreamy, earworm and has been one of my most-listened to tracks of the last year. (ML)

Marina Yozora – ‘Touché’
Described as a “love letter” to her friends and fans, ‘Touché’ is a gorgeous offering from Japanese-born, London-based songwriter Marina Yozora. It’s a tender dream-pop tune full of her delicate vocals, emotive lyrics and atmospheric guitar tones. (KC)

Ailsa Tully – ‘Self Soothing’
The first taste of her upcoming debut album, ‘Self Soothing’ marked a welcome return for Welsh artist and GIHE fave Ailsa Tully earlier this year. Offering a vulnerable sentimentality, a delicate musicality glistens as Tully’s distinctive crystalline vocals flow seamlessly. With its added immersive synth-driven layers and subtle sense of angst that ripples under its surface, a gritty edge is added to this innovative artist’s trademark heartfelt splendour. (ML)

False Idah – ‘Gaslight’
Having been big fans of the sultry beats and genre-defying heartfelt offerings of London-based songwriter and producer Jay Brown, under her previous guise as Amaroun, we’re now excited to hear that she’s back with a new project. False Idah takes all that we loved about Amaroun, but develops it into something more as Brown immerses herself in the vulnerability of stripped-back songwriting and the inspiration that can come with the freedom to express yourself in a true and honest way. I was lucky enough to catch an intimate live performance at Servant Jazz Quarters back in September, ahead of the release of this beautifully raw new single and an upcoming album next year. (ML)

Amulets ft. Midwife – ‘Lifelike’
This is a really beautiful collaboration from two of my favourite American musicians – electronic/drone artist & tape wizard Amulets and “heaven metal” pioneer & producer Midwife. ‘Lifelike’ is lifted from Amulets’ poignant second album, Not Around But Through, which was released in February via Beacon Sound. This track seamlessly blends together Midwife’s transient, hazy vocals and Amulets’ mesmeric digital and analogue synth textures to create a sound that is totally disarming and deeply soothing. (KC)

Grandmas House – ‘Slaughterhouse‘
Ebow, minor chords, harmonies – what’s not to love? This song, about pain, loss and obsessive devotion, grabbed me from the first listen with its creepiness and dark, blunt lyrics like “I’ll be the funeral home, I’d be the family morgue”. The striking video, featuring the band in suits covered in black paint around a dinner table, only heightens its impact. It’s an absolute earworm. (EP)

THWACK! – ‘Three Angels’
Another band who celebrated the release of their debut album, Buried But Blooming, with us at a sold-out show at New River Studios back in February, THWACK! are one of my favourite discoveries of 2025, and offer a necessary and empowering energy with each of their unique punk-folk anthems. Emanating a radiant celebration of trans joy, the sparkling charisma and fierce immersive power of their live shows (plus the giant Margaret Thatcher head) consistently mark them as a stand out part of the London DIY scene. (ML)

Hadda Be – ‘New To The Office’
A gloriously scuzzy new single from south London band Hadda Be, ‘New To The Office’ offers an all-too relatable reflection on the anxious hallucinations of a Sunday night fever dream. It was recorded by Andy Ramsay of Stereolab and offers a gritty taste of what to expect from their upcoming second album next year. We can’t wait for them to headline our first gig of 2026 on 16th January at The Waiting Room – tickets on Dice now, with support from Shallow Honey and Mannequin Flowers. (ML)

Witch Fever – ‘The Garden’
For fans of grunge-soaked, doomy, gothic music, Witch Fever deliver. This track from their latest album takes a more melodic, delicate approach while keeping its dark, doomy edge. Captivating melodies, a wall-of-sound chorus and strong, clear vocals dominate, leading into an atmospheric breakdown that creates striking contrast before the final chorus pulls you back under.(EP)

Klein – ‘rich dad poor dad’
I was glad to unearth this experimental gem from UK rapper Klein back in September. ‘rich dad poor dad’ is taken from her intriguing rap-inspired “ambient folklore mixtape” titled sleep with a cane, which she released via Roc Nation Distribution. I love her hypnotic layering of sounds and her mesmeric vocals. This track is also accompanied by a self-directed music video, featuring Klein in different locations in South London, including the iconic Windrush Square in Brixton. (KC)

Tusks – ‘adore’ (I. JORDAN remix)
I loved the evocative, melancholic original version of ‘Adore’ by London-based artist Tusks (featured on her 2024 album, Gold), but this re-imagining by London-based DJ I.JORDAN is something else! Fuelled by infectious dance-inspired beats, it retains the magnetic pull of Tusks’ original release, but it’s impossible not to move your feet to it. This track features on Tusks’ EP, Gold – The Remixes, which was released in October via One Little Independent Records. (KC)

Heartworms – ‘Smugglers Adventure’
Built around a killer guitar riff, this nearly six-and-a-half-minute epic takes its time, unfolding through a slow, confident build that pulls the listener in. Atmospheric and finely produced, subtle noises weave through the mix, adding a sultry edge. The vocals rise and fall with swelling dynamics, and the track culminates in a standout breakdown that makes the journey feel well-earned. (EP)

If we had lots more time, we’d include many more songs on this list. If you’re a band we love and not included here, you’re still fantastic and we have so much admiration for you creating wonderful music to keep us going!

Huge thanks to all the artists and bands creating the wonderful tunes that have got us through this year! Listen to our Tracks Of 2025 playlist now and please be check out and support the artists’ work n places other than Spotify!

Keep an eye out for our Albums & EPs Of 2025, Personal Highlights Of 2025 & Ones To Watch for 2026…

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