NEW TRACK: Wise Up – ‘House Cat’

A grungy, laid back ode to “nature’s most temperamental muse”, Dublin-based trio Wise Up have shared their latest single ‘House Cat’. Taken from the band’s debut EP, Soothe The Soul, which they released at the end of June, the track is described as “an anthem for all pet lovers and alt rockers who see themselves feeling like a house cat from time to time.”

Formed of Courtney from Canada on vocals and bass, Garry from Cork on guitar and vocals, with Juan from Venezuela joining on drums earlier this year, Wise Up have been jamming and recording tunes together since the beginning of 2022. Starting with the release of their debut single ‘Conjure The Feeling‘, the have steadily been sharing music over the past year, with the five tracks on Soothe The Soul being the culmination of their efforts over the past few months.

Citing Pixies, Pavement, Yard Act, Chastity Belt, Courtney Barnett and Big Thief as their main musical influences, Wise Up are motivated by the need to cut loose and enjoy the songs they’re performing, rather than agonising over being cool or counting the number of heads in the room. This energy shines through on latest single ‘House Cat’, which is a playful, melodic grunge tune celebrating introvert and extrovert qualities via the vessel of Courtney and Garry’s cat. The track is accompanied by a music video which follows the adventures of their feline companion Lucy, which the band filmed at Belfast Castle and gardens.

Watch the visuals for ‘House Cat’ below.

Follow Wise Up on Spotify, Twitter, Facebook & Instagram

Kate Crudgington
@kcbobcut

Kate CrudgingtonLeave a comment

PLAYLIST: June 2023

The Get In Her Ears team have put together another eclectic mix of indie & alternative tunes, guitar anthems, alt-pop gems and electronic sounds for your listening pleasure. Take some time to scroll through our track choices below, and make sure you press play on the playlist at the end of this post.

Follow GIHE on Spotify to hear all of our previous playlists too.

 

Problem Patterns – ‘Letter Of Resignation’
Fresh from supporting electro-punk icons Le Tigre on their Manchester and Glasgow UK tour dates, this is the latest single from GIHE favourites, Belfast Riot Grrrls Problem Patterns. Taken from their upcoming debut album, Blouse Club, which will be released later this year via Alcopop! Records, ‘Letter of Resignation’ celebrates queer joy and ally-ship, which feels especially poignant during Pride month here in the UK. We can’t wait to have the band headline for us again at the Sebright Arms in Hackney on 17th November. Tickets are cheaper in advance, so make sure you grab one from DICE.
(Kate Crudgington)

CLT DRP – ‘Nothing Clever, Just Feelings’
This is the title track from Brighton electro-punk trio CLT DRP’s upcoming second album, which is set for release on 8th September via Venn Records. ‘Nothing Clever, Just Feelings’ is a thumping, primal offering that champions the immediacy and the transitory nature of thoughts and emotions. I am OBSESSED with it, and so are ARRX, who played the track on our recent Soho Radio show during our interview with them. Listen back to that here. (KC)

Straight Girl – ‘Ugly’
I CANNOT WAIT for Leeds multi-talented artist Straight Girl to headline for us at the Shacklewell Arms next Friday 7th July. With their fierce charisma and unique electro-punk soundscapes and sparkling stage presence, I guarantee they’ll deliver a euphoric immersive experience that you won’t be forgetting in a hurry! Support comes from ALT BLK ERA (!) and The Dead Zoo. I can’t stress enough how silly you would be to miss this one. Grab a ticket on DICE now.
(Mari Lane)

ALT BLK ERA – ‘I’m Normally Like This’
Embracing the power of their individuality and refusing to let the opinions of others impact the way they express themselves, I love this single fro genre-defying sister duo ALT BLK ERA. Fuelled by their antagonistic and joyful spirit, it’s a cathartic rage-dance anthem that celebrates the freedom that comes with championing your own creativity in alternative music scenes and beyond. The band will be playing as main support for our GIHE summer gig with STRAIGHT GIRL at The Shacklewell Arms on Friday 7th July! Grab a ticket on DICE now. (KC)

cumgirl8 – ‘gothgirl1’
One for the #GloomyGirls out there! New York four-piece cumgirl8 have shared this dark, sultry new tune. It’s taken from their upcoming EP phantasea pharm, which is set for release on 18th August. The band will be supporting Le Tigre on their Canadian tour dates in July and they’ll be returning to the UK to play Greenman Festival in Wales on 18th August. (KC)

Sweeping Promises – ‘Eraser’
Following their 2020 debut, Hunger For A Way Out, Kansas duo Sweeping Promises have now returned with a new album, Good Living Is Coming For You, set for release today 30th June! Taken from the album, ‘Eraser’ showcases the band’s unique colossal energy and quirky, colourful soundscapes. Of the track, they explain that ‘Eraser’ is “a malevolent creep – an overly ambitious, shadowy force who bears an uncanny resemblance to you. She watches your every move, mirrors your motions, and ultimately uses your voice against you without you ever noticing what she’s done. She’s unchecked ambition, a paranoid girl Friday, an overriding impulse to reflect rather than project. She must be stopped at all costs.” (ML)

Grrrl Gang – ‘Spunky’
Indonesian Riot Grrrls Grrrl Gang have been a rising force in the Southeast Asian music scene since their formation in 2016, and I just love this short sweet blast of empowering, infectious pop-punk. It’s currently an exciting time for the band as their debut full length album, also called Spunky, is due out in September, getting a release with legendary label Kill Rock Stars in the US. (ML)

Girls Like Us – ‘Spoonfed’
London-based grunge/punk trio Girls Like Us recently released their debut EP, ‘Til The Bitter End, which this track ‘Spoonfed’ is lifted from. Their blend of riotous vocals and guitars and their memorable song titles – ‘My Boyfriend Was A Tory (So I Broke Up With Him)’ – make for cathartic, fun listening. (KC)

House Of Women – ‘Hysterical’
‘Hysterical’ is the debut single from London four piece House Of Women, released via their own label. The band have been busy playing live shows in London recently in preparation for their upcoming slot at 2000TREES festival on 7th July. I’m looking forward to hearing more from these four in the future! (KC)

Cable Ties – ‘Thoughts Back’
The latest single from Australian band Cable Ties, ‘Thoughts Back’, is a wonderfully scuzzy slice of post-punk, reflecting on drummer and vocalist Shauna Boyle’s personal experiences with mental illness and how consuming and exhausting it can be. All Her Plans, the new album from Cable Ties, is out now and if you fancy catching them live, they’re headlining the Shacklewell Arms on 25th August. (ML)

Ratboys – ‘It’s Alive’
Not sure how I’ve only just come across Chicago band Ratboys, but they’re new favourites for sure! Their latest single, ‘It’s Alive’, is filled with all the dreamy, lilting hooks and fuzzy allure I could ever need, and Julia Steiner’s vocals are sugar sweet perfection. Ratboy’s upcoming new album, The Window, is set for release on 25th August. (ML)

Divide and Dissolve – ‘Want’
Happy album release day to the inimitable Divide & Dissolve! Their fourth record, Systemic, released via INVADA Records, hosts more of their heavy, sublime sounds that I’ve grown to love over the past few years. Divide and Dissolve’s core message has remained the same throughout their journey: “to make music that honours their ancestors and Indigenous land, to oppose white supremacy, and to work towards a future of Black and Indigenous liberation.” This track ‘Want’ is a hypnotic loop of sound that opens their new record. Listen to Systemic here and keep your eyes peeled for a full review on our website next week! (KC)

CIRCE – ‘Glow (You Always Tell Me I Have This Glow)’
Taken from her upcoming EP, Drawing Wings From The Light, which is set for release on 19th July, Circe’s latest single bristles with a potent anger, explored through her seething-yet-poetic lyricism, atmospheric synths and intriguing use of ASMR-inducing samples. Inspired by “a powerful rage” directed against “the slights and casual misogyny of the music world”, her hushed threat of “I am a hurricane” sees her defiantly reclaim a sense of power and self autonomy in the face of this adversity. (KC)

Yvonne Ambrée – ‘Outtamymouth’
Some great electronic analogue sounds on this track from Brooklyn via Berlin singer-songwriter Yvonne Ambrée. Yvonne details the track: “The song really embraces all the moments when something comes to an end – when something has been said, a decision has been made, a feeling has taken over etc.” I love it. (Tash Walker)

Speakers Corner Quartet ft. Tirzah – ‘Fix’
A couple of weeks ago, I had the total pleasure of seeing Speakers Corner Quarter at Roundhouse for the launch of their album. It was a totally mesmerising show, each track features a different collaborator – ‘Fix’ with Tirzah, but also Kae Tempest, Sampha and so many others joined them on stage. I would strongly recommend you all check out the album and immerse yourself in the delightful sound bath! (TW)

Hera Lind – ‘Hungry Lion’
‘Hungry Lion’ is the latest single from this Icelandic musician, an ode to restoring your inner peace and “feeling whole again” after escaping certain toxicities in life. (TW)

heka – ‘april (away)’
Heka has now signed with Practise Music and this is her first single for the label. Self-proclaimed “butchered folk” – I love that. And the song, which has a deep intimacy and melancholy to it. (TW)

King Hannah – ‘State Trooper’
Two live highlights of mine over the last few months: seeing Bruce Springsteen live in Barcelona, and seeing King Hannah support Kurt Vile at Koko. So, this rendition of one of my favourite Boss songs by the Liverpool band combines the two in a rather beautiful way. It was wonderful to finally see King Hannah live – even more completely spellbinding than I could have ever imagined. (ML)

Hand Habits – ‘The Bust Of Nefertiti’
The latest single from LA based artist Meg Duffy aka Hand Habits, ‘The Bust Of Nefertiti’ is taken from their new EP, Sugar The Bruise – a collection of songs focused on being in the moment, which was written after Duffy had taught a month long songwriting class last summer, in which they discovered a newfound clarity in embracing the unknown. I just really love this track’s driving emotion and cinematic soundscape. (ML)

TERI GENDER BENDER – ‘You Won The Man’
Taken from her upcoming EP, OUTSIDERS, which is set for release on 7th July, this is the latest alt-pop gem from the marvellous Teri Gender Bender. On ‘You Won The Man’, Teri reminds us that “behind every victory lies a poignant tale of sacrifice, struggle, and the profound human experience.” She is a total force when performing live, which she proved on stage supporting The Mars Volta on their UK tour dates earlier this month. (KC)

Girl Ray – ‘Everybody’s Saying That’
Any regular followers of ours will know what a fan I am of London trio Girl Ray, and my fandom has only increased with their latest slew of funk-fuelled singles. This one fizzes with all the swirling disco-inspired energy and danceable allure that we’ve come to know and love, and leaves me super excited for the release of their upcoming album, Prestige, which is out on 4th August via Moshi Moshi. I can’t wait to see them live again for its launch at Rough Trade East that evening, and if you’re keen to dance the night away to more Girl Ray-approved hits, they’re hosting ‘Club Prestige’ – a night of disco hits and beyond – at The George Tavern on 21st July. (ML)

Spinsters – ‘Styrofoam’
Bolton-based newcomers Spinsters have released their debut EP, Love Songs From the Apocalypse, today via The Evening Economies! This track ‘Styrofoam’ is one of five songs that explore the notion of memory, our bodies, joy, fear and technology – aka “what it means to be a messy human animal in chaotic times”. (KC)

Delilah Holliday – ‘Silent Streets’
Lifted from her upcoming EP, Invaluable Vol. 1, which is set for release via One Little Independent Records on 7th July, ‘Silent Streets’ is the latest banger from Delilah Holliday. A former member of punk band Skinny Girl Diet, Delilah’s solo sound has shifted into electronic dance territory, and this track allows her new skills to shine. (KC)

Alex Loveless – ‘Whiplash’
Hackney-based electronic artist Alex Loveless has returned with this alt-pop gem after a break from creating music whilst recovering from long covid. Inspired by palimpsest memories – layers of memories that accumulated as Loveless retraced their steps around London – it’s a slow-burning, lo-fi musing that sees them explore the powerful yet transitory relationships and interactions they have with others. (KC)

Lucy’s Delirium – ‘Mr Tv’
This is the debut single from Montreal alternative rock band Lucy’s Delirium. Their strong DIY ethos and playful, carefree attitude has resulted in the sound of ‘Mr Tv’. They recorded the single in their home studio, and the band describe it as “encapsulating the hypnotizing and obsessive feeling og the relationship between people and technology.” (KC)

MALKA – ‘Matriarch’
Having been a big fan of Scottish artist Tamara Schlesinger aka MALKA ever since she was a guest on our radio show about 6 years ago, I was excited to hear that she has new material. Taken from her upcoming new album, ‘Matriarch’ reflects on trying to balance everything in life whilst finding pride in what you succeed at. Oozing a sparkling, synth-soaked soundscape as Schlesinger’s honey sweet vocals are propelled by uptempo, tribal beats, it offers a beautifully uplifting ode to self empowerment. (ML)

Lizzo – ‘2 Be Loved (Am I Ready)’
I wasn’t at Glastonbury, sadly… But I’ve been lucky enough to see Lizzo before and her immense empowering presence is just one of the most wonderful things in the world. Even just watching the footage of her set from the weekend on iPlayer filled me with so much joy and emotion. Going through a few changes and realisations in my personal life at the moment, seeing the sheer beautiful uplifting energy and fierce spirit of her performing this song (and all the girls and gays crying along) was really just what I needed right now. Thank you Lizzo! (ML)

 

Get In Her EarsLeave a comment

LISTEN: GIHE on Soho Radio with ARXX (26.06.23)

Tash, Kate and Mari were all in the studio together for June’s edition of the Get In Her Ears Soho Radio show! They played loads of new music from some of their favourite female, non-binary and LGBTQIA+ artists, and Tash made a poignant speech about Trans Rights and the importance of supporting trans artists during Pride month, and all year round. There was an eclectic mix of tracks on the playlist too, including Planningtorock, CLT DRP, Lauren Auder, Problem Patterns, Jackie Shane, Ratboys, Dream Wife, Speakers Corner Quartet, Fraulein and more!

The team caught up with total faves Hanni and Clara aka ARXX. The pair came into the studio to talk about the reaction to their debut album, Ride Or Die, which they released in March this year, their impressive touring schedule – including shows with The Vamps, Yungblud and MUNA – and their undying love for Avril Lavigne (which Kate also harbors too.) The GIHE team also reminisced about the first time ARXX were guests on a GIHE radio show back in June 2019, which you can listen to here.

Listen back to our most recent show below:

 

We’ll be back on Soho Radio on Monday 24th July from 12-2pm!

Tracklist
Jackie Shane – Sticks and Stones
Planningtorock – Transome
Problem Patterns – Letter Of Resignation
ARXX – Ride Or Die
**Interview with ARXX**
CLT DRP – Nothing Clever, Just Feelings
Dream Wife – Leech
Cable Ties – Thoughts Back
Ratboys – It’s Alive
Yvonne Ambrée – Outtamymouth
Speakers Corner Quartet – Fix
Sprints – Adore Adore Adore
House Of Women – Hysterical
Hera Lind – Hungry Lion
heka – april (away)
Girl Ray – Everybody’s Saying That
Fraulein – Big Cool
The Crystal Furs – Gay Bar (Electric Six Cover)
Grrrl Gang – Spunky
Beverley Glenn-Copeland – Africa Calling
Gazelle Twin & NYX – Deep England
Hand Habits – The Bust Of Nefertiti
F*Choir – Dying
Lauren Auder – we2assume2many2roles
Chroma – Woman To Woman
Breakup Haircut – Out Of My Way (I’m Not Getting On The Nightbus)
Anohni and The Johnsons – It Must Change

Kate CrudgingtonLeave a comment

ALBUM: Weekend Recovery – ‘Esoteric’

A welcome follow-up to their riotous recent singles, Weekend Recovery’s latest third album Esoteric builds on the distinct sound the band has built for themselves.

The album leaps into action with ‘Chemtrails’, the wildly catchy refutation to misinformation that dropped late last year. It keeps the energy high for the next few tracks, solidifying the unique flavour of this band. Continuing the fierce attitude of ‘Chemtrails’, ‘Dangerous’ blasts into the ears with its fast drums and throbbing bass, juxtaposed with its subtle lyrics that are gifted a profound sense of social commentary by the sirens remixed into the background.

Third track, ‘In The Crowd’, features the album’s first guest appearance. Joel Arthur’s (Hydeout) vocals on this and also ‘No Saint’ later on offer a rich deep contrast to those offered by Weekend Recovery’s vocalist Lori. The way the two voices play off each make for a striking mirror and adds depth to the songs on which he appears – his softer bass rumble platforming Lori’s rich tones in a way that heightens the attitude in them.

Lori’s vocals in every song are imbued with a sardonic, sarcastic weight. It’s particularly evident in ‘I Don’t Like You Anyway’, which has fantastic amounts of sass and is pitched perfectly. Every jab she makes feels like you’re siding with her against the world, never the target of her derision.

The title track comes at the midpoint of the album. ‘Esoteric’ is wonderfully chosen to demonstrate how skilled this band can be. The heavy bass line and quick drums set the stage for the vocals and fuzzy guitars to scream, aching with feeling and capturing the essence of what makes Weekend Recovery unique.

The album mellows out as it goes on, flexing the band’s versatility and offering a counter to the rough attitude you’ve come to expect. The gentle tracks are no less powerful or memorable than the ones that roar, however; ‘Her’ being a stand out. The dips in pace launch into new emotional heights, using the layers of music to carry you along with its mood, before leaping back into the familiar Weekend Recovery punch of ‘No Guts All The Glory’.

The arrangement takes you on a finely crafted emotional journey. The soft vulnerable songs feel like they’re exposing a hidden truth beneath the upbeat angry ones, hinting at a soft reaction to the same infuriating subject matters. Each song is a joy to experience on its own, but the relationship between the tracks carries a lot of power. The movement between songs tells its own story, whilst the construction of the album as a whole shows off how much thought and effort Weekend Recovery have put into constructing their music. 

Esoteric is out now via Criminal Records. Catch Weekend Recovery live at Tramlines Festival in Sheffied on 23rd July.

Kirstie Summers
@ActuallyKurt

Kirstie SummersLeave a comment