Track Of The Day: BLAB – ‘Eton Mess’

A righteous assault on the many failings of the UK government, Southend based multi-instrumentalist BLAB has shared her latest single ‘Eton Mess’. Released via Cool Thing Records, the track is a rumbling “anti-fascist anthem” that proudly sticks two fingers up to the establishment and snarls in the face of the apathetic, privileged men who were born into running it.

“’Eton Mess’ is about the consistent negative impact the Tories have had on the lives of average people,” explains BLAB aka Frances Murray. “It’s about a government so out of touch with people’s everyday lives and a culture of ignorance and apathy amongst the wealthy elite. I am furious at how we can turn a blind eye to a prime minister who is openly racist, homophobic and sexist. How inequality is perpetuated by upholding archaic values in society and continuing to enable a broken system where politicians from the same few private schools in the country are elected. I wanted to find a way to vent my anger and disillusionment with the government and the lives they have jeopardised through austerity and a lack of NHS funding.”

Fuelled by her disdain for current political policies and backed by her anarchic lyrics and riotous guitar riffs, BLAB’s message on ‘Eton Mess’ is clear: speak up and speak loud. She’s currently working on her debut album with Sam Duckworth (Get Cape. Wear Cape. Fly) and Rees Broomfield at SS2 Recording in Southend, channelling her riot grrrl attitude into a collection of witty, infectious anthems.

Listen to ‘Eton Mess’ below.

 

Follow BLAB on Spotify, Instagram, TwitterFacebook and for more updates.

Photo Credit Shot: James Mannion

Kate Crudgington
@KCBobCut

LISTEN: Naz & Ella – ‘Internalised’

A gentle, sincere lament about the personal affects of internalised homophobia, North London-based duo Naz & Ella have shared their latest single ‘Internalised’. The first track to be taken from their upcoming EP (DE)HUMANISE, the track is a quiet yet candid exploration of the struggles the duo have faced whilst coming to terms with their sexuality and gender identities.

“It was important to us that this song conveyed an emotional journey with a light at the end of the tunnel,” explains Ella. Though the context of ‘Internalised’ is rooted in pain and confusion, the duo treat it tenderly with their blend of dreamy guitars and lush vocal harmonies. Together, they overcome the fears that have manifested after “too many years of hiding in the shade / wrapped in shame” to find peace and pride in their identities. “For the first time in my life / I’m proud to call you mine” the pair sing, providing hope for queer listeners who may still be on their journey to self acceptance.

“Internalised homophobia is a very isolating experience,” Naz explains. “Not only are you hurting yourself, but also those around you whether intentional or not. Whilst we think it’s important to take responsibility for your actions, we wanted to call out how growing up in a cisheteronormative world teaches queer people that there’s something wrong with us. Ultimately, only we can set ourselves free if we’re willing to unlearn that socialisation and push through the pain.” The duo have also explored the experiences they touch on in ‘Internalised’ further in a new podcast which you can listen to here.

Listen to the track below.

Follow Naz & Ella on bandcamp, Spotify, Instagram, Twitter & Facebook for more updates.

Kate Crudgington
@KCBobCut