PLAYLIST: May 2023

The Get In Her Ears team have put together another eclectic mix of indie & alternative anthems, grungy guitar riffs, alt-pop gems and electronic tunes 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.

Le Tigre – ‘My My Metrocard’
The GIHE gang are finally seeing Le Tigre live in London on Saturday and we CANNOT wait to dance together in raging, cathartic bliss! Although I’ve been lucky enough to see Bikini Kill and The Julie Ruin live, it’ll feel extra special seeing Kathleen Hanna, JD Samson and Johanna Fateman reunited – Le Tigre were my ‘gateway’, if you will, to all things Riot Grrrl, hearing them regularly in the local indie club I’d visit throughout my teens during the early noughties, before delving into what came before. I’ve got goosebumps just thinking about it! (Mari Lane)

pink suits – ‘pink suits everyone’
Having had the pleasure of hosting Margate punk duo play for us at a couple of gigs over the last two years (supporting Problem Patterns and ARXX), we’re excited to welcome them back to The Shackewell Arms on 22nd June. It’s going to be extra special, as this time they’ll be headlining in celebration of their upcoming album, Dystopian Hellscape. Support from Chuck SJ and the Rose Quartz Rebellion and Breakup Haircut. Grab your tickets here! (ML)

GENN – ‘ A Reprise (That Girl)’
Long time GIHE faves GENN with their latest single. ‘A Reprise (The Girl)’ showcases all there is to love about the Anglo-Maltese quartet; with their trademark funk-fuelled sound and fierce energy, it’s an immense angst-driven anthem. (ML)

INDIGOS – ‘Drug Dealer, Faith Healer’
I’m a big fan of this track by Bristol-based band INDIGOS. Taken from their upcoming EP, IN UTOPIA, which is set for release on 21st June, ‘Drug Dealer, Faith Healer’ draws parallels between drug use and organised religion, comparing the ritualistic natures of both.
(Kate Crudgington)

HotWax – ‘Rip It Out’
The latest single from Hastings teenage grunge trio HotWax, taken from their debut EP, A Thousand Times. I’ve probably played ‘Rip It Out’ a thousand times? It’s a riotous anthem about ripping out your contraceptive implant. I interviewed the band before their gig at The Lexington back in April and we spoke about this track and more. Read the full piece here. (KC)

Fraulein – ‘Big Cool’
Self-described as “a wild ride, a bit screamy, very big & very cool,” I love this new anthem from GIHE faves Fraulein. Joni & Karsten continuously impress all of us with their brooding, grunge-infused noise and ‘Big Cool’ is no exception. It’s taken from their upcoming EP, Pedestal, which is set for release on 30th June. (KC)

CHROMA – ‘Woman To Woman’
Having wowed crowds at SXSW and Focus Wales this year, and with a debut album set for release later this year, Welsh rockers CHROMA rally in support of people of minority genders in immense latest single ‘Woman To Woman’. Calling out those who call themselves feminists whilst actively oppressing others, it races with a fierce energy, blasting out the poignant message that “Trans Women Are Women” with a searing sense of urgency. (ML)

My Ugly Clementine – ‘Are You In’
Described as “a reminder to jump in, be assertive and to go with the flow”, I love this track from Vienna-based three piece My Ugly Clementine. Are You In? is taken from their upcoming album, The Good Life, which will be released on August 11 via BMG. The band are coming over to the UK to play a show at the Old Blue Last in Shoreditch on 8th October, so grab a ticket if you like what you hear. (KC)

Touch Excellent – ‘Record’
A tenacious anthem that takes aim at the failures of the healthcare system when it comes to treating women, non-binary and transgender folks, this is the debut single from Touch Excellent. Playfully self-describing themselves as “Ireland’s most transgender band (surely)”, Touch Excellent create raw, frenzied, politically-driven cacophonies that are designed to dismantle the systems that oppress us. ‘Record’ is inspired by the band members own experiences with the medical system, the recent Cervical Check scandal in Ireland, and the ongoing fight for reproductive rights around the world. (KC)

Cumgirl8 – ‘cicciolina’
I missed New York four-piece cumgirl8 when they played The Great Escape earlier this month, but their catchy, chaotic sounds have been ricocheting around my head anyway. ‘Cicciolina’ is a snapshot of what the band are all about, as they explain: “Cicciolina is an Italian icon, porn star and former politician that was elected to parliament in the 90s. She advocated for human rights and the eradication of nuclear weapons. Cicciolina said ‘make sex not war’ and used her divine power of femininity to troll the status quo while disrupting it from the inside. We feel her ideals are foundational to the cumgirl8 philosophy of subversive change, peace, and strength in vulnerability. We hope she loves our song, we love her very much. Cicciolina is cumgirl1.” (KC)

The Black Isle – ‘Jewel Box’
Bonding over a shared love of grunge and pop, Yorkshire-based band The Black Isle create fuzzed up, melodic guitar tunes. The band released their new EP, Vagus Nerve, today (31st May), so if you like the sound of ‘Jewel Box’, you should check it out here.(KC)

HAVVK – ‘Daylight Robbery’
I was super excited to hear about the return of total faves HAVVK! They played the first ever gig we hosted back in 2016, and have continued to charm us with their rich ethereal power ever since. ‘Daylight Robbery’ offers a grittier sound from the Irish duo, reflecting on the safe spaces we create for ourselves and the exhaustion and fear we can feel when these are invaded. A fierce anthem oozing the band’s trademark, cathartic rage and captivating grace. (ML)

Trout – ‘Gutter’
I love this bittersweet anthem from the excellently named Trout. The Copenhagen-born, Liverpool-based musician has just signed to Chess Club Records and returned from playing The Great Escape Festival, so 2023 looks set to be a great year for her. ‘Gutter’ is a tongue-in-cheek response to those who doubt what it’s like to live with depression, explored via grungy riffs and Trout’s layered vocals. (KC)

Ezra Williams – ‘Until I’m Home’
This is a tender offering from Irish non-binary musician Ezra Williams, taken from their debut album, Supernumeraries, which is set for release on 16th June via AWAL. Speaking about the track, Ezra explains: “I wrote this song on the train home from hanging out with my girlfriend at the time. I overthink everything, and cannot be left alone with my own thoughts for a second, or I’ll feel like the world is collapsing in on me.” We love Ezra’s music here at GIHE and look forward to hearing their debut record in full. (KC)

Pixie Cut Rhythm Orchestra – ‘Empty Envelope’
Mari has booked Pixie Cut Rhythm Orchestra to headline our Get In Her Ears gig in October and I am SO. EXCITED. They were recommended to me by Irish musician Fears a while ago, and I’ve had this track ‘Empty Envelope’ on repeat since then. Please grab a ticket to come and see them live at The Shacklewell Arms. We can have a little cry in the front row when they play it (disclaimer: this is optional). Tickets are cheaper in advance and available via DICE here. (KC)

Midwife & Vya Melinkolya – ‘Hounds Of Heaven’
I am obsessed with Midwife & Vya Melinkolya’s collaborative EP, Orbweaving, which they created during the time they spent together in the deserts of New Mexico where Midwife is based. From nights spent “herping” on empty roadsides looking for rattlesnakes, roadkill and spiders, to meaningful days in the studio, Orbweaving captures a moment of melancholy and metamorphosis for both artists. It’s one of my favourite EPs of the year so far. (KC)

JFDR – ‘Life Man’
‘Life Man’ is taken from Icelandic musician JFDR’s third album Museum, which came out at the end of last month. JFDR says “The song is about one of those moments; when you get a second to breathe and an overwhelming wave of existentialism hits you in the face.” Kate caught her set at St Mary’s Church in Brighton as part of The Great Escape Festival, which you can read all about here. (TW)

SOLE – ‘en och en’
I have Kate to thank for discovering this tack! It comes from SOLE who is a Swedish artist, music producer and songwriter. This track is taken from her upcoming second album. I love the calming nature of it, with beautiful vocals that make you feel like you’re being lifted up by the music, transcending into a better place. (TW)

Headboy – ‘Cement’
London trio Headboy’s latest release, taken from their upcoming debut EP, Was It What You Thought?, which is set for release on 9th June via Blitzcat Records. This track focuses in on the significance of friendship amidst a backdrop of bright, intricate indie-rock. Speaking more on the lyrical inspiration behind ‘Cement’, the band said: “In the heat of a turbulent summer, misrule reigned. ‘Cement’ is about taking stock and refuge in the comfort of your friends and the people around you; and the rediscovery of friendship. It includes advice from lyricist Mars West’s grandfather – ‘don’t count the days it slows them down’ – a warning against wishing away life.” I’m looking forward to hearing the EP in full! (TW)

The Orielles – ‘Tableau 002’
Having just released their experimental new EP, The Goyt Method – an innovative re-working of last year’s album Tableau – long time faves The Orielles continue to showcase their insightful and sophisticated songwriting, and ability to create exquisite, avant-garde soundscapes. Find out more about the intriguing processes and techniques used to put the EP together, as well as reflections on memorable live shows and being women in the music industry, in our recent interview with Sid and Esmé from the band! The Goyt Method is out now via Heavenly Records. (ML)

DEWEY – ‘The Janitor’
This is the latest single from previous guest on our Soho Radio show DEWEY. ‘The Janitor’ is serving those wonderful otherworldly soundscapes that DEWEY does so well. I particularly love the catchy guitars and rhythms on this track, it’s got a real groove to it. DEWEY will be playing a free gig at East London’s Jaguar Shoes on the 1st June. (TW)

Lauren Auder – ‘we2assume2many2roles’
An intriguing exploration of the contradicting nature of human experience, I’m a big fan of this single from British-French artist Lauren Auder. Co-produced by GIHE fave Jessica Winter, mmph, Alex Parish and Auder herself, ‘we2assume2many2roles’ is a hazy alt-pop gem that marks an exciting new direction for the songwriter. (KC)

CATBEAR – ‘I’ll Meet You At The End’
London duo CATBEAR with their latest single. A ‘love song for the apocalypse’, ‘I’ll Meet You At The End’ reflects on the power of connection, even in the darkest of times. With its soaring, blissful allure I can’t get enough of this shimmering, immersive soundscape. (ML)

Softee – ‘Isn’t Enough’
The latest single from Brooklyn based artist Nina Grollman aka Softee, ‘Isn’t Enough’ showcases her ability to create sparkling alt-pop soundscapes with a stirring, heartfelt emotion. Oozing a glistening, immersive splendour throughout, her new debut album Natural explores complex themes of identity and transformation with a soulful, uplifting energy. (ML)

Ruti – ‘Luh Luh Love’
I had the total pleasure of catching Ruti on the first day of The Great Escape in Brighton earlier this month, and their vocals blew me away. I totally love this track of theirs ‘Luh Luh Love’. There’s such a gentle sweetness to it and a lovely depth and tone to Ruti’s voice. Feel good vibes. (TW)

Charlotte Carpenter – ‘Spinning Plates’
The first taster of Charlotte Carpenter’s upcoming debut album, ‘Spinning Plates’ offers a poignant reflection on the power structures and misogyny within the music industry. I’m a big fan of the impassioned blues-soaked splendour of this striking call to arms to fellow women and marginalised groups within the industry. (ML)

Carpenters – ‘Yesterday Once More’
Just wanted to play a Carpenters song as I was lucky enough to interview Lucy O’Brien recently about her new book about legendary artist Karen Carpenter. Lead Sister is a truly moving account, recalled with stirring empathy by Lucy – whilst not ignoring the sadness of Karen’s story (one which can be quite affecting, especially for anyone who has personal experience of eating disorders), it highlights Karen’s voice, her strength of spirit and passion for what she loved (like drumming!) (ML)

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5GVdoLhH9nI7qErVfBXkwQ?si=eb3869b24f8c4706

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The Great Escape 2023: Photos & Highlights

We were back at The Great Escape Festival last weekend, running around Brighton catching some of our favourite female, non-binary and LGBTQ+ artists in new music! Spread across multiple venues in the city, the festival showcases an eclectic line-up of talent, and our Features Editor Kate Crudgington and official photographer Jon Mo were there to capture some of the highlights of the prolific three day event.

Of course, clashes, queues and timing issues meant we inevitably missed some artists – including Lambrini Girls, Brimheim, Cristale, Grove and Jessica Winter – but we did catch a glimpse of Courtney Love standing outside of Chalk on the first day of the festival, so that kind of makes up for it? Read on to find out more about the shows we did manage to see…

 

Alt-Pop is thriving via Sans Soucis, ARXX, Seraphina Simone and SPIDER

Alt-pop comes in many genre-blending guises and we saw it flourish in the form of four different artists at the festival: Sans Soucis, ARXX, Seraphina Simone and SPIDER.

Catching Sans Soucis‘ set upstairs at Patterns on the seafront was a superb way to kick off our Great Escape experience. Having been fans of the Congolese-Italian songwriter and producer since they released their debut album, On Time For Her, back in 2021, it was a joy to watch them thrive on stage in spite of the technical difficulties that delayed the start of their set. Opening with the infectious warmth of ‘I’m On’, Sans Soucis filled the room with their lush vocals and glitchy-yet-melodic sounds.

We’re running out of ways to articulate how talented Hanni and Clara aka ARXX are. Playing their biggest hometown show to date at The Beach stage, the Brighton duo blasted their energetic blend of alt-pop right across the pebbles. Their between-song banter is equally as entertaining as the rest of their performance. Whether they’re having their “Dua Lipa moment” on ‘God Knows’, getting the crowd to chant along to the anthemic ‘Ride Or Die’, or explaining that the youthful crowds on their recent tour with Yungblud didn’t know who Cher was – ARXX are masters of their comedic and musical craft. Having been long time supporters of this dynamic duo here at GIHE (they’ve headlined our gigs and been guests on our radio show) our hearts were swelling with pride as we watched them shine under the spotlight.

Providing something totally different, London-based songwriter Seraphina Simone delivered her bittersweet musings on love, obsession and growth to attentive fans in Patterns’ basement. Performing songs from her melancholy-tinged EP, Milk Teeth, Seraphina’s sounds shimmered across the venue, aided by drummer Sophie Galpin’s tentative beats. (Self Esteem fans will recognise both musicians, as they’re part of Rebecca Lucy Taylor’s touring band).

A real highlight of the weekend was watching Irish alt-pop polymath SPIDER openly enjoy storming around the stage at The Green Door Store. Playfully taunting the “industry guys at the back” to move forward and dance along to her high energy anthems, the songwriter and producer delivered anti-birthday anthem ‘I’M FINE! I’M GOOD! I’M PERFECT!’, the brooding ‘GROWING INTO IT’ and the defiant grit of ‘AMERICA’S NEXT TOP MODEL’ with vibrant and infectious attitude. Passionate about instigating change as a young black woman making genre-blending music, SPIDER’s charisma shone through between her tracks, as she spoke about not letting the industry or the voices on the internet diminish her successes. She was a joy to interview on our Soho Radio for our Great Escape Special show (listen back here) and we look forward to seeing what she does next.

The Future is here in the form of HotWax

Rumour has it that these three teens from Hastings were one of the reasons that Hole’s Courtney Love was in town. Together, Lola, Tallulah and Alfie aka HotWax are a captivating blur of energy on stage, delivering their heavy grunge riffs with impressive and authentic flair. We caught up with them for a chat before their headline set at The Lexington in London back in April (read here), but their packed set at The Beach stage excelled that performance. Highlights included their visceral new anthem about the contraceptive implant ‘Rip It Out’, the riotous ‘Treasure’ and the title track of their upcoming debut EP, ‘A Thousand Times’.

CLT DRP are a live force to be reckoned with

It was one-in-one-out when we arrived at The Black Lion to catch CLT DRP (pronounced ‘clit drip’) on Thursday night, but we managed to squeeze into the venue just in time to catch their set – and WHAT. A. SET. Blending punk vocals with idiosyncratic guitar FX and truly phenomenal drumming, Annie, Scott and Daphne commanded their enthusiastic crowd from the moment the first bead of sweat hit the floor. The Brighton trio played four sets in one day across town, but there was no hint of fatigue as they ripped through tracks from their debut album, Without The Eyes, and finished with a knockout rendition of their latest single ‘New Boy’. It feels cliché to say it, but CLT DRP are a band that need to be seen live to be fully appreciated. Totally unique.

The Houndstooth 10 year anniversary showcase at St Mary’s Church was stunning

Arriving just in time to see Penelope Trappes disappear in a puff of smoke behind her keyboard at St Mary’s Church, we stayed in the ornate venue to watch sets from Icelandic songwriter JFDR and electronic artist Hinako Omori. All three musicians have released albums via the Houndstooth label, which boasts an eclectic and impressive roster.

JFDR‘s clear vocals, altruistic lyrics and tender instrumentation effortlessly filled the arches of the church. Sharing stories and musings between her tracks ‘Life Man’ and ‘The Orchid’, both of which are lifted from her recent album Museum, the musician was full of gratitude to be in Brighton playing to such an attentive congregation of listeners.

Hinako Omori‘s set followed and it was truly majestic. Heavily inspired by the physiological effects that sound frequencies have on the body and the Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku (“forest-bathing”), Omori’s music seeks to understand and enhance the human condition in intricate and invigorating ways. Playing continuously for thirty minutes, the London-based musician delivered a combination of sounds from her debut album, a journey…, and her warm, expansive synths and soft, lilting vocals transported listeners into a state of calming bliss.

Guitar music is alive and well in the form of Whitelands, Coach Party, Human Interest & ĠENN

Whenever we read an article that claims “guitar music is dead” or that “guitar bands are a dying breed”, we roll our eyes and move on. Trust us when we say that it is alive and well, because we saw proof of it across The Great Escape lineup (including HotWax who we mentioned earlier)

We caught a glimpse of London-based shoegazers Whitelands at the packed Paganini Ballroom. Their hazy, melancholic guitar tones shimmered across the room, with latest single ‘Setting Sun’ proving to be a set highlight.

Isle Of Wight four-piece Coach Party played three sets across the weekend, bringing their grunge-infused cacophonies to a full crowd in the Komedia basement. The band ripped through their set, which included tracks ‘Micro Aggression’ and latest single ‘All I Wanna Do Is Hate’.

London post punks Human Interest poured their sweat and blood (literally) into a knockout set at Revenge. The four-piece delivered swaggering anthems like ‘Cool Cats’ and ‘Mixing Paint’ with impressive confidence, relishing the applause that the crowd granted them after each track.

We enjoyed the instinctive, brooding sounds of Brighton-based, Maltese band ĠENN so much, that we went to see them perform twice. The chemistry between band members Janelle, Sofia, Leanne and Leona was magnetic, as were Leona’s distinctive and powerful vocals. The band were also joined on stage by John Newton (vocalist and drummer of knockout duo JOHN) for a visceral duet during each of their shows at The Old Ship Courtyard and Zahara.

Problem Patterns are everything

Whether it’s Bev storming into the crowd to shout in your face, Alanah staring you down with her intense glare from the stage, Ciara’s incredible bass face, or drummer Beth politely telling you to “fuck off” from behind her kit if you’re “homophobic, sexist, transphobic or racist”, there’s so much to love about Problem Patterns‘ live show.

Performing upstairs at the Prince Albert pub, the chemistry between the Belfast Riot Grrrls was a total joy to behold. Smashing through politically driven anthems like ‘TERFs Out’, ‘Who Do We Not Save?’ and ‘Y.A.W (Yes All Women)’, the four-piece switched between instruments and shared vocal duties throughout the set, not once losing the incredible momentum they’d built. Members of Fraulein, ARXX and The Oozes were all in the crowd beaming up at them as they thrashed their way through a knockout show.

We cannot wait for Problem Patterns to return to London to headline for us at the Sebright Arms on 17th November. Grab your tickets here.

We recommend you get tickets to see FLOSSING live ASAP

New York-based musicians Heather Elle and James Maclay aka FLOSSING were the final band we caught at the festival, and we were deeply impressed by their smouldering, angst-ridden sounds. Through their blend of pulverizing bass lines, experimental electronics and eclectic, heavy beats, the duo explore themes of self-acceptance, sexuality and the duplicitous nature of love and attraction. Heather – who has previously played in Bodega and The Wants – is truly mesmeric on stage. A disciplined yet expressive performer, their vocals buzzed around and resonated within the walls of the dark venue Chalk, especially during tracks like ‘Switch’. We didn’t get any pics unfortunately, so you definitely need to catch the band live next time they’re in the UK to witness it yourself.

 

Words: Kate Crudgington / @kate_crudge
Photos: Jon Mo / @jonmophotography

Kate Crudgington3 Comments

GUIDE & PLAYLIST: The Great Escape Festival 2023

Event: The Great Escape

Where: Brighton (various venues)

When: Thursday 10th – Saturday 13th May 2023

Ticket Info:
Full Weekend ticket: £105 / 2 Day ticket: £80.00 / Day ticket: between £40-55 (ticket link here)

General Info:
We’re excited to be heading back to The Great Escape Festival to tread Brighton’s pebbled beach and trek around the city trying to catch some of the best female, non-binary and LGBTQ+ new music talent! Spread across three days, the festival aims to showcase an eclectic array of artists to excited fans and music industry members. There’s also conferences and other music events running alongside the main festival.

In the lead up to Brighton, there’s a series of showcases in Glasgow and Dublin for The Road To The Great Escape. They will run from the 6th-9th May. Full info here.

Running parallel to the main festival is The Alternative Escape! Check out the venues that are getting involved and the full line-up for it here.

The Late Escape will also kick in once everything else is in full swing. It will feature after hours sets from dance and electronic artists at a number of Brighton venues on Friday May 12th and Saturday May 13th. More info here.

Who’s Playing: Full line-up & timetable here

GIHE favourites ARXX, Brimheim, Problem Patterns, Human Interest, Seraphina Simone and CLT DRP will all be singing by the seaside over the long weekend, but we’re excited to discover some brand new artists too. Below is a list of acts we’re keen to catch at the festival.

You can get to know them better by listening to our accompanying Spotify Playlist at the end of this feature, or you can listen back to our Soho Radio x Great Escape special show with SPIDER here.

Who GIHE recommend you catch:
Whitelands, Brimheim, Problem Patterns, Phoebe Go, JFDR, Cristale, ARXX, Girls Of The Internet, Alice Low, Blondshell, DEBBY FRIDAY, Witch Fever, CLT DRP, Coach Party, SPIDER, SPRINTS, Alice Longyu Gao, Gena Rose Bruce, Cumgirl8, Nuha Ruby Rah, Seraphina Simone, cumgirl8, CATBEAR, Trout, Lambrini Girls, Berry Galazka, GROVE, PVA, Delilah Holliday, Moonchild Sanelly, Mandy Indianna, Jessica Winter, PVA, Maeve, NikNak, King Hannah, The Oozes, FLOSSING, Heartworms, RUTI, Bobbi Lu, Amrit Kaur, King Isis, Baque Luar, Alien Chicks, GENN, Projector, Helen Ganya, Rauchen, O., LUCI, Gen & The Degenerates, NEY LIQA, Sans Soucis, October & The Eyes, Hinako Omori, Penelope Trappes, Jessie Marcella, Marysia Osu, CIEL, Dull, English Teacher, Flip Top Head, Teen Jesus and the Jean Teasers, Mindy Meng Wang & Tim Shiel, Boyish, HANYA, HotWax, Human Interest, Lime Garden, Nice Biscuit, The Big Moon, The Last Dinner Party.

Download the official Great Escape app for the full schedule & line-up

For more information visit The Great Escape’s official website

Check out our Great Escape Festival Playlist below!

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PLAYLIST: March 2023

The Get In Her Ears team have put together another eclectic mix of indie & alternative anthems, alt-pop tunes and electronic sounds for your listening pleasure. We skipped February’s edition of the Playlist, so March is packed with loads of new music! Take some time to scroll through our track choices below and then press play at the end of this post.

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

Fraulein – ‘Pet’
Is it even a GIHE Playlist if we don’t include a Fraulein track? Since Mari first introduced Joni & Karsten to the GIHE team in 2020, we’ve been fans of everything the grunge duo have released, including this new track ‘Pet’. It was a pleasure to have them in the studio chatting about it on our February Soho Radio show, which you can listen back to here.
(Kate Crudgington)

Hot Wax – ‘Treasure’
Full of buzzing basslines, commanding beats and raucous guitar sounds, this track from Hastings trio HotWax flicks between melodic verses and riff-heavy breakdowns, providing listeners with a welcome rush of blood to the head. The band are gearing up for their own mini UK tour this month, before joining The Pearl Harts as main support in May. (KC)

Brix Smith – ‘Fast Net’
The awesome latest single from rock legend Brix Smith, ‘Fast Net’ is propelled by a fierce energy and gritty punk-fuelled spirit. Racing with pummelling hooks alongside Smith’s soaring honey-sweet vocals and immersive charisma, it offers a raging reflection on facing up to your vulnerabilities. ‘Fast Net’ is taken from Smith’s debut solo album, Valley Of The Dolls, out now. (Mari Lane)

Hannah Jadagu – ‘What You Did’
I love this hazy guitar tune from Texas-based musician Hannah Jadagu, who only recently appeared on my radar. Taken from her upcoming debut album Aperture, which is set for release on 19th May via Sub Pop, Jadagu’s bittersweet vocals and reverb-laden riffs are totally infectious. I can’t wait to hear the record in full. (KC)

Lunch Machine – ‘Pipedream Graveyard’
On ‘Pipedream Graveyard’, Belfast-based alt rockers Lunch Machine blend the angst of 90s grunge and melodic pop sensibilities to push past feelings of apathy. Marking their first piece of new music in five years, the track is a grunge-infused take on the futility of planning for the future whilst the planet is slowly collapsing around us. (KC)

Earthlung – ‘Joy¿’
Full of sardonic spoken-word style vocals, cutting lyrics and distorted riffs, this single from Brighton-based band Earthlung is a search for meaning and relief amidst the mind-numbing everyday tasks we undertake in order to keep living our best lives. (KC)

English Teacher – ‘Song About Love’
Out now via Speedy Wunderground, ‘Song About Love’ is the latest single from Leeds band English Teacher. As the sultry smooth vocals of front woman Lily Fontaine flow alongside chiming hooks and steady beats, it offers a wonderfully infectious exploration into the romance that can be found in the mundane; a whirring ode to “doing the chores, instead of doing someone else.” Watch the fantastic, Sims-inspired, video for ‘Song About Love’ here. (ML)

cruush – ‘Stick In The Mud’
“I guess you can say our music has the sweet elements of having a crush on someone, but the screeching of an industrial car crusher…” explains cruush’s vocalist Amber Warren. Say no more, Amber, I love it! This track is taken from the Manchester-based shoegaze band’s upcoming EP Wishful Thinker, which is set for release on 14th April via Heist Or Hit. (KC)

Red Sun Alert – ‘Huge’
Taken from their recent EP Assume Power, this track from Cork-based post-hardcore band Red Sun Alert is an angst-ridden banger. Their new record is full of raging riffs, relentless beats and anthemic vocals, so definitely check it out if you like the sound of this. (KC)

Problem Patterns – ‘Who Do We Not Save?’
The first piece of new music since their visceral 2022 anthem ‘Y.A.W‘ (Yes All Women), I’m a big fan of Belfast-based DIY punks Problem Patterns’ latest single. Released via Alcopop! Records who the band have recently signed to, ‘Who Do We Not Save?’ takes aim at the incompetent Tory government and their continued attempts to privatise the NHS. Giving their listeners a space to release their pent up frustrations, fears and disappointments is a core value of Problem Patterns’ music, and with this track the band have provided another cathartic aural antidote to offset the anxiety of the uncertain times we’re currently living through. (KC)

SPIDER – ‘America’s Next Top Model’
Written in response to the backlash she received and the whitewashing she witnessed on popular online platforms, SPIDER chooses to thrive in the face of adversity on her new track, ‘America’s Next Top Model’. Taking aim at her critics via abrasive riffs and candid lyrics, the London-based, Irish musician & producer has channelled her vitriolic energy into another empowering anthem and accompanying video, which acts as a defiant cry for better black representation in alternative music scenes. (KC)

Momma – ‘Bang Bang’
New York City four-piece Momma are back – with a bang – on their latest single. This track was co-written by band members Etta Friedman and Allegra Weingarten when they both caught Covid-19 last year. Making the most of their time in isolation, the pair got drunk together and ended up writing a fun song about great sex, with ‘Bang Bang’ being the result. All of Momma’s songs are mega catchy and this one is no exception. (KC)

Lilies In My Brain – ‘Blue Sky’
Inspired by everyone from Alkaline Trio, to Angel Olsen and Wet Leg, South London-based four-piece Lilies In My Brain create shimmering indie-pop anthems. This track is taken from their album, 21 = 2a + 7, which the band released back in 2021. They’re currently working on their second album, which they’re planning to release later this year. (KC)

Perlee – ‘Lampshade’
Inspired by everything from the nature of unconditional love to the banality of capitalist society, Berlin-based Irish band Perlee are preparing to release their debut album, Speaking from Other Rooms on 21st April. This track is lifted from the record, and its full of glistening guitars and dreamy vocals. (KC)

Lunar Vacation – ‘Only You’
Following the release of their debut album in 2021, ‘Only You’ is the latest single from Atlanta-based Lunar Vacation. Rippling with beautifully lilting melodies, it shimmers with a stirring emotion and sparkling, cinematic grace, offering an irresistibly effervescent slice of indie-pop with shades of the likes of Alvvays and Best Coast. (ML)

Lusa Morena – ‘Where’s The Spark (If Not In You)’
Having wowed us with the fierce charisma of their live show at The Shacklewell Arms last year, London-based five piece Lusa Morena have recently released a twinkling new single. Reflecting on society’s frequent dismissal of – and stigma around – feelings of depression or mental health struggles, ‘Where’s The Spark’ is a beautifully moving ballad, oozing sweeping, glossy riffs alongside front woman Bárbara’s rich, luscious vocals. (ML)

Aisha Badru – ‘Lazy River’
Flowing with a lilting energy, ‘Lazy River’ reflects on the journey of emotional healing and the time that this can take. Rippling with the shimmering grace of Badru’s vocals and a twinkling folk-strewn musicality, it oozes an exquisite stirring splendour. Learning To Love Again, the upcoming new EP from Aisha Badru, is set for release in June. (ML)

JFDR – ‘Spectator’
I notice something different each time I listen to this beautiful track by Icelandic experimental songwriter JFDR. Her tender voice and concise, gentle lyrics compliment the glimmering synths perfectly. ‘Spectator’ is lifted from her upcoming album Museum, which is set for release on 28th April via Houndstooth Records. Speaking about the track, JFDR explains “‘Spectator’ is an anthem for the codependent, a lullaby for the ones slightly codependent and for those who have never felt it; a mirror into the raw thought process of someone deep in the trenches of it.” (KC)

Midwife & Vyva Melinkolya – ‘NMP’
I never tire of listening to Midwife’s melancholy sounds, and this new collaborative effort with Vyva Melinkolya is no exception. ‘NMP’ is taken from the duo’s upcoming 5-song album, Orbweaving, which will be released on 12th May via The Flenser. The record is described as “a web like structure – a gauze of sorrow and visceral connective thread” that combines their experiences of hopelessness, calling on a higher power, being alone, and the sublime horror of the natural world. I can’t wait to hear it. (KC)

LANA DEL RABIES – ‘Prayers of Consequence’
The opening track to her recent album STREGA BEATA – which loosely translates as “Blessed Witch” – I love this gloomy, evocative track from Lana Del Rabies. A creator of corrosive, brooding experimental sounds, the Phoenix-based producer and multimedia artist’s new record is a cathartic medium for her innermost thoughts on the human condition, grief and navigating tragedy. You can listen to the album and read about some of the music that inspired her to write it in our Five Favourites feature here. (KC)

MANDY, INDIANA – ‘Pinking Shears’
A brittle, abrasive blend of beats, noise and bittersweet French vocals, this track from Manchester-based four-piece MANDY, INDIANA seethes with a palpable frustration. The track is taken from their upcoming debut album, i’ve seen a way, which is set for release on 19th May via Fire Talk Records. (KC)

DEBBY FRIDAY – ‘Hot Love’
Taken from her upcoming debut album, GOOD LUCK, which is set for release via Sub Pop on 24th March, ‘Hot Love’ is another industrial-tinged, explosive electronic banger from DEBBY FRIDAY. The Nigerian-born, Toronto-based artist continues to provide the soundtrack for messy nights on the dancefloor, and the impact that the intoxicating and toxic people we meet in the hedonistic process. (KC)

ARXX – ‘God Knows’
The latest single from absolute faves, Brighton’s ARXX, ‘God Knows’ offers a perfectly heartfelt and instantly catchy anthem. Embracing their love of all things pop, it veers away from the more gritty sound of previous offerings whilst maintaining the duo’s distinctive emotion-strewn power. Of the track, they explain: “We really pushed ourselves to step into Dua Lipa’s shoes. We were able to live our Cher dreams and dive into the world of auto tune and swoopy synths.” ARXX’s upcoming debut album, Ride or Die, is out on 31st March – pre-order here. Catch ARXX live on tour over the next couple of months (I can’t wait to catch them at Rough Trade East on my birthday!) (ML)

Gabi Garbutt and Du Blonde – ‘Panic’
A perfect collaboration between Gabi Garbutt and acclaimed artist Du Blonde, ‘Panic’ is propelled by a swirling post-punk energy alongside sugar-sweet pop melodies as the two vocals fuse together with a shimmering charm, creating a truly blissful, instantly infectious, indie-pop anthem. Watch the wonderful DIY video for ‘Panic’ here. (ML)

Tiiva – ‘Teenage Dirtbag’ (Wheatus Cover)
Taking a classic 00s anthem and putting their own euphoric spin on it, London-based producer Tiiva’s cover of Wheatus’ ‘Teenage Dirtbag’ is a celebration of queer love. Full of quirky synths and dreamy vocals, the track reflects Tiiva’s own feelings about coming-of-age as a queer person. “I wanted to cover something that I could sing about and be like, ‘yeah that’s me, that’s how I feel’,” Tiiva explains. “The lyrics feel hyper real, my first crush on a girl, feeling invisible in my queerness and wanting to be accepted, to be cool. I feel like this song is such an anthem but also so fun, celebrating how to just be yourself and enjoy it, that’s what the song means to me, and I wanted to share that.” (KC)

Panic Pocket – ‘Mad Half Hour’
The first taste of their upcoming album of the same name, Panic Pocket’s latest single ‘Mad Half Hour’ offers a joyous ode to Spice Girls legend Geri Haliwell, oozing all the playful tongue-in-cheek energy that we’ve come to know and love from the London duo. An instantly catchy slice of fizzing punk-pop, it will have you singing along on first listen; so, don your thigh high boots, scream ‘Girl Power!’ and relish in the nostalgic bliss of this witty anthem. (ML)

Jen Cloher – ‘Mana Takatāpui’
This poignant single from Australian artist Jen Cloher, ‘Mana Takatāpui’ offers a blissful celebration of the indigenous Polynesian people of Aotearoa, New Zealand, the Māori LGBTQ+ community. Showcasing Jen’s trademark luscious soothing vocals alongside a shimmering musicality, it builds with an uplifting energy to a truly joyous unifying anthem. I Am The River, The River Is Me, the upcoming new album from Jen Cloher, is out now via Milk! Records / Marathon Artists (ML)

Girl Ray – ‘Everybody’s Saying That’
Reflecting on themes of new love and self-doubt, ‘Everybody’s Saying That‘ is the latest single from London trio Girl Ray. Swirling with a disco-inspired energy, oozing the band’s colourful charisma and uplifting charm, I just love its funk-fuelled hooks and sparkling danceable allure – a perfect uplifting anthem, that will elevate your spirits, leaving you ready to hit the dancefloor/roller-disco/bedroom with a revived sense of optimism. (ML)

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