GIHE: Albums & EPs of 2025

After sharing our Tracks Of 2025 last week, the Get In Her Ears team want to shine a light on some of the brilliant Albums & EPs that have been released during the past 12 months. These eclectic records resonated with us deeply and we hope they’ll do the same for all future listeners.

Huge thanks to all of the bands and artists who have submitted music to us this year. We appreciate how much love, determination, money and admin goes into creating your records and we feel privileged to have been able to share your art with our community.

So, in alphabetical order (and including multiple ‘Honourable Mentions’ at the end because we hate leaving people out) here are our top Albums & EPs of 2025…

 

ALBUMS

Blonde Maze – Second Sight

It wouldn’t really be an end of year round-up if I didn’t include New York artist Blonde Maze. Since immediately falling in love with her debut EP, Oceans, back in 2015, she’s consistently been my most listened to artist year on year for the last decade. I just find that their music brings such a blissful catharsis and soothing energy every time; whatever mood I’m in, however I’m feeling, it just helps me feel better. The sparkling uplifting splendour of this year’s Second Sight is no exception – it hits perfectly every time.
(Mari Lane – Managing Editor)

Blondshell – If You Asked For A Picture

Since seeing Blondshell live at Electric Brixton back in September, I think I’ve had her second album If You Asked For A Picture pretty much in constant rotation, seeking daily catharsis in the raw emotion and sparkling ‘90s-tinged musicality of each track. Offering honest and heartfelt reflections on both romantic and familial relationships, Sabrina Teitelbaum evokes a beautifully endearing vulnerability and all-too relatable insight into everyday anxieties. (ML)

Blue Loop – Cycles

Cycles is a deeply personal work from London-based electronic musician & producer Emma Hall aka Blue Loop; inspired by her experience of being diagnosed with breast cancer and undergoing chemotherapy treatment. Now in remission, Emma spoke candidly to us about the inspirations behind specific tracks when she was a guest on our Soho Radio show earlier this year. Whilst living through a life-altering diagnosis, Emma managed to create this moving, majestic record that fluctuates in mood, volume and tone in order to reflect her feelings during the different ‘cycles’ of her treatment. Whether she’s feeling rightfully resentful on shadowy single ‘The Knife’ or immersed in romanticism on ‘Luxury Chords’, Emma juxtaposes her emotions with precision and passion, reflected in her earnest lyricism and shape-shifting electronics. (Kate Crudgington – Features Editor)

Breakup Haircut – No Worries If Not!

London DIY legends Breakup Haircut formed at First Timers Fest and have been such huge favourites of ours ever since. I’ve lost count of the number of times they’ve played live for us since their first GIHE gig back in 2019. They’re just such a joy every time. Even at our gig with Strange New Places a couple of months back when Ishani was sadly unwell and couldn’t make it; Ripley, Delphine and Jordan still managed to put on an incredible show which I think perfectly epitomises their relentless DIY spirit. Their second album No Worries If Not! only came out last month, but it’s definitely in my top releases of the year. It fizzes with all the playful sardonic wit and scuzzy punk-pop energy we know and love throughout; whilst angst-driven undercurrents and fierce hooks indicate a more honed, sharper sound for Breakup Haircut. They may also win the prize for best song titles, with tracks including ‘The Algorithm’s Trying To Kill Me’ and ‘Two Spaghetti Meals’. (ML)

Daffo – Where The Earth Bends

The songwriting project of Brooklyn-based, Philly-raised Gabi Gamberg, Daffo has been a highlight of the year for me, with their debut album Where The Earth Bends pretty much on repeat since its release in September. Interweaving a scuzzy indie-pop musicality with a searing raw emotion and glistening heartfelt grace, it’s a deeply personal and beautifully resonant collection that showcases Gamberg’s unique gift for writing songs that really do feel like they reach out and gently caress how you’re feeling. The GIHE team also managed to catch Daffo live at The Great Escape in May this year, and watching such a gorgeous set alongside Hanni and Clara from ARXX and Rach from Comic Sans was a definite highlight of the weekend for me! (ML)

flinch. – misery olympian

Having played live for us twice this year – in June at The Cavendish Arms and recently at their special festive Flinchmas celebration at The Ivy House – Glasgow’s flinch. also spent 2025 releasing their second album. Building on the distinctive shimmering emo sound of 2021’s enough is enough, with misery olympian they cement themselves as complete favourites. From start to finish, the album oozes a scuzzy raw emotion and fizzing sense of honesty, with incredibly witty (and long!) song titles like ‘i wonder if colin from endoctrinology remembers me’. It’s one of my favourite albums, not just of this year, but probably from the last decade. (ML)

Floralis – Saboteur Club Anthems Vol. 1

Brighton-based artist Floralis makes dismantling fascism sound like a total BLAST on this eccentric and essential record. On the superbly titled Saboteur Club Anthems Vol. 1, the British born, Indo-Trinidadian transfeminine artist blends stomping dance-inspired rhythms and chant-worthy lyrics to create a collection of “anarchist electro punk” anthems that confront and reject capitalism, transphobia, misogyny and racism. From the bold opening beats of ‘black combat boots’ right the way through to the euphoric electronics of closing track ‘YOU’RE NOT DEAD’, Floralis is committed to sabotaging fascism in their own defiant style. She said that her “blood, sweat and tears” were poured into this record and that shines through on every track. (KC)

Jacob Alon – In Limerence

Although I was pretty late to the Jacob Alon party, from the moment I heard the Scottish artist speaking to Annie Macmanus and Nick Grimshaw on the BBC Sidetracked podcast earlier this year, I immediately felt drawn to their beautiful sensitivity. Then, on listening to their exquisite album, In Limerence, I found myself completely spellbound. I was lucky enough to catch them live at Deer Shed festival, where they delivered each of their strikingly stirring offerings with a shimmering heartfelt splendour against a poignant backdrop of the Trans Pride and Palestinian flags; filling me with a warm sense of hope that the young people in the crowd were able to absorb the uplifting sense of queer joy and subtle resistance that radiated from the stage. Both live and on record, I can feel the raw emotion of each and every word of the entirety of In Limerence, inspired by Cob’s insight and conviction. I’m excited to be charmed by more of their captivating creations next year. (ML)

jasmine.4.t – You Are The Morning

Having featured as one of my Ones To Watch for 2025, jasmine.4.t has certainly been worth watching this year. With the release of her debut album, You Are The Morning, back in January on Phoebe Bridgers’ label Saddest Factory Records, sold out tours across Europe, Australia and the US and numerous support slots with Lucy Dacus; it’s been such a fantastic year for jasmine and every success is so, so well deserved. The album has probably been my most-listened to of the year. It’s just an exceptionally beautiful reflection on trans identity and queer belonging and a truly necessary and heartfelt ode to community and solidarity. I’ve been lucky enough to catch jasmine live a few times over the last couple of years – each time has been such a wonderfully moving and empowering experience and I can’t wait to see her again at Deer Shed festival this summer. (ML)

Lōwli – Window In The Woods

A moving, introspective offering that sees her processes unsettling memories and emotions with true serenity; Window In The Woods is the beautiful debut album from Irish composer & songwriter Lowli. Released via VETA records in October, through her tender keys, crystalline vocals and atmospheric electronics, Lowli gracefully guides listeners through her magnetic musical ruminations. I’ve mentioned (multiple) times both on air and online that she is one of my favourite new music discoveries this year and my admiration only increases each time I revisit Window In The Woods. It’s a record that’s equally as laced with melancholy as it is with hope and love, which means something new is gained from every listen. (KC)

Mae Martin – I’m A TV

I’ve been such a huge fan of Mae Martin since watching Feel Good five years ago helped me discover things about myself that I don’t think I’d realised yet. And then, since last year, I’ve been completely addicted to the Handsome podcast which they host with Tig Notaro and Fortune Feimster. It’s one of the few things I’ve ever come across that literally makes me laugh out loud every time. It’s just so deeply comforting and relatable and so, so silly in the best possible way. So, when they shared that they were going to be announcing their debut album, it felt perfectly serendipitous and I was intrigued. A stirring collection of lilting alt-folk reflections on relationships and identity, with I’m A TV, Martin proves themselves to not only be a fantastic actor, screenwriter and comedian, but also an accomplished musician and beautifully reflective songwriter. (ML)

NYX – NYX

By harnessing the sublime power of the collective human voice, the NYX drone choir have crafted a unique form of “psychedelic rebellion” on their eponymous debut album. Released via their own label, the ensemble – led by New Zealand-born composer & director Sian O’Gorman and made up of multi-talented vocalists & musicians – use electronics to manipulate their vocals and create their own idiosyncratic sounds; expanding the realms of what a traditional choir is capable of. I have been fortunate enough to witness the immense musical alchemy of NYX’s live performances several times; something which they have now truly harnessed on this debut solo offering. Inspired by Sian’s holistic and deeply human approach to singing, NYX have developed a collection of sounds that enrapture, inspire and intrigue the more that you engage with them. This is a profoundly moving record, best appreciated when listened to in one full sitting with headphones on and eyes closed. Total bliss. (KC)

Pigeon Dog – Beaks

Pigeon Dog’s debut album Beaks channels ’90s grunge with raw, Brody Dalle–esque vocals that grab you from the first note. The London three-piece blend warm tones with gritty guitar riffs and playful, tongue-in-cheek lyrics; proving they know how to have fun. The band mix catchy riffs and ear-wormy vocal hooks with rich harmonies, layering in ’60s psych-inspired synths for added texture. Their songs balance grit and groove perfectly, resulting in tracks that are both sultry and irresistibly catchy. Pigeon Dog know how to craft bangers that stick in your head while keeping the spirit playful and engaging.
(Ella Patenall – Contributor)

Roller Derby – When The Night Comes

I was lucky enough to work with German dream-pop duo Roller Derby helping them to spread the word about their second album, When The Night Comes, earlier this year; a task which wasn’t hard to do, as the album is just completely exquisite and impossible not to like. Showcasing the duo’s ability to meticulously interweave the luscious celestial vocals of Meyer with glistening multi-layered soundscapes and raw textures, it offers a truly captivating listen throughout. One of my definite highlights of the year was hosting not one, but two sold out shows with Roller Derby back in May. It was such a joy to be able to facilitate them being able to share their immersive, spellbinding sounds with adoring crowds at The Lexington in London and The Rossi Bar in Brighton, with perfect support from other favourites CATBEAR. A completely dreamy weekend. (ML)

Scrounge – Almost Like You Could

The follow-up to their debut mini-album Sugar, Daddy (2022), Almost Like You Could is the first full-length offering from South London post punk duo Scrounge. Together, lead vocalist & guitarist Lucy Alexander and drummer & vocalist Luke Cartledge move through chaos and despondency towards hope and redemption on this biting, vital collection of tracks. Whether Lucy is reflecting on the never-ending process of “coming out” as an queer person on ‘UTG’, or Luke is lamenting about urban isolation on ‘Nothing Personal’, Scrounge manage to hit the right nerve every time. Released via Ba Da Bing! Records, Almost Like You Could is a potent reminder that Scrounge remain driven by the desire to create meaningful art that represents who they are, as well as the voices of the allies and DIY communities they’re part of – something that we back all the way at GIHE. (KC)

Snocaps – Snocaps

Being a huge fan of both Waxahatchee and Swearin’, I was pretty exited to hear about new supergroup Snocaps. Featuring Katie Crutchfield and her twin sister Allison, along with MJ Lenderman and Brad Cook, this collaboration really is the stuff actual dreams are made of. This debut album flows with such a gorgeous, fuzzy allure and gloriously twee folk-strewn musicality and I cannot get enough of its beautiful, lilting energy. (ML)

Strange New Places – Second Puberty

The debut record from Belfast queer punks Strange New Places, Second Puberty has definitely been one of my most listened to albums of 2025. Another band who I was lucky enough to be able to host in both London and Brighton back in October, live they brought a joyous queer energy and a really life-affirming sense of unity, whilst the album as a whole offers a fierce celebration of queerness and neurodivergence. From heartfelt odes to friendship in the form of ‘Coraline’ and ‘YATPYFL’ to ‘Sleep For Dinner’s scuzzy reflection on burnout and depression and the empowering self-love anthem ‘Full Of Myself’; it celebrates the power of community, offering a a reassuring voice of solidarity and unity at a time when we so desperately need it. (ML)

Wombo – Danger in Fives

Kentucky-based, art-rock trio Wombo blend prog, indie, experimental, and psych influences with intelligent musicianship and bold artistry. Their tracks range from accessible to delightfully challenging, with soft, airy vocals floating over unusual, wonky guitar parts and driving basslines. Nothing is straightforward or predictable, yet the band manages to keep even their most experimental moments melodic and earwormy – with the occasional touch of dissonance, keeping you on edge. Angular and gritty guitars and inventive melodies mark Wombo as a band unafraid to push boundaries while still creating music that sticks. Danger in Fives is a great portrayal of what they are capable of. (EP) 

EPs

Junk Whale – See you around, I guess?

Having been big fans of Oxford’s grunge-pop faves Junk Whale since first hearing their 2022 debut, the fantastically named Caught In The Act Of Looking Weird, I was super excited when they released a gorgeous new EP back in May. Since then, See you around, I guess? has been another collection I’ve found myself playing non-stop, unable to get enough of its scuzzy raw emotion and lilting indie-pop energy. Despite covering poignant themes such as grief and mental illness, the EP as a whole oozes an uplifting effervescent spirit, each track offering an instantly catchy jangly earworm (and not a repeating chorus in sight!) The band supported Strange New Places at their London gig for us and really are a true force to be reckoned with live – there was “hairography” and everything. (ML)

THE NONE – CARE

I chose Birmingham-based experimental punk supergroup THE NONE as one of my Ones To Watch for 2025 after hearing their abrasive, politically driven cacophonies in the flesh at Supersonic Festival the previous year. CARE is the follow up to their debut EP, MATTER, and it’s another ear-eroding collection of visceral vocals, hefty riffs and pulverizing percussion. Front person Kai Whyte has a formidable voice; paired with a talent for writing engaging lyrics that cut through the masterfully intense, frenetic sounds that their bandmates Gordon Moakes, Jim Beck and Chris Francombe create. From the rallying cry of opening track ‘My People’ to the relentless riffs of closer ‘On Automatic’, CARE is both an assault on the senses and a vital reminder to aggressively challenge the status quo. I urge you to go and see this band live. You will be blown away by their talent. (KC) 

Problem Patterns – Boring Songs For Boring People

Equally informed by their desire for provocation, self-deprecation and amplification; Boring Songs For Boring People is another urgent and essential offering from Belfast queer punks Problem Patterns. Released via Alcopop! Records, the EP sees the four-piece reflect on the trials and tribulations of being in a DIY band and their frustrations at the performative behaviour of industry officials and musicians in the spotlight. In true Problem Patterns style, they tackle these subjects with cathartic screams, witty lyrical refrains and relentless riffs; undermining the idea that Alanah, Beth, Bev and Ciara could ever be accused of living up to the EP’s title. Whether they’re overcoming burnout on the record’s title track or shouting back against noisy neighbours on ‘Classic Rock Has Become My Prison’, Problem Patterns transform the mundanity of everyday life into intensely catchy punk anthems that provide the necessary rage, joy and catharsis we’ve been craving. (KC) 

Sijya – Leather & Brass

An idiosyncratic blend of digital and analogue synth textures and drifting atmospheric vocals; Leather & Brass is the second EP from South Asian composer and producer Sijya. Released via One Little Independent Records, this collection of tracks is a testament to her artistic resilience and experimental energy. Across the EP, Sijya’s immersive electronics intuitively expand and contract, providing her with the much-needed emotional space she craves in her music. Her ambiguous lyrical motifs afford listeners the same catharsis, as they float seamlessly over shape-shifting soundscapes like ‘I only want to crash’ and ‘Why do you fight me’. Leather & Brass is an essential listen for anyone who is looking for escapism through eccentric, intriguing electronica. (KC)

TTSSFU – Blown

By opening her second EP with a track titled ‘Cat Piss Junkie’, Manchester-based artist Tasmin Stephens aka TTSSFU has cemented herself as a candid new icon of guitar music. Full of her lush vocals and dreamy, shoegaze-inspired sounds, Blown is an ode to Tasmin’s growing pains as both an artist and a young woman; full of her reflections on friendship, unrequited romances and messy nights out. She is adept at tackling shame, humour and vulnerability in her lyricism; underscoring this with hazy, reverb-strewn guitars and heady dream-pop melodies. From the lush sounds of ‘Forever’ and ‘Call U Back’ through to the sweet discordance of ‘Being Young’, she faithfully captures the indecisive and exciting energy of being in your 20s and navigating the uncertain world around you. She is also just really funny, which you’ll see if you read this conversation I had with her for The Line Of Best Fit earlier this year. (KC)

 

Honourable Mentions

adults – the seeds we sow are sprouting buds nonetheless
Agnes Haus – Inexorable Ascent
BACKXWASH – Only Dust Remains
Bonnie Trash – Mourning You
The Dead Zoo – Suspects
Eilis Frawley – Fall Forward
Ethel Cain – Willoughby Tucker, I’ll Always Love You
feeo – Goodness
Glixen – Quiet Pleasures
Hilary Woods – Night CRIÚ
Japanese Breakfast – for melancholy brunettes and sad women
Jessica Winter – My First Album
Julien Baker & Torres – Send A Prayer My Way
Kae Tempest – Self Titled
Kathryn Mohr – Waiting Room
Klein – Sleep With A Cane (Mixtape)
Lucy Dacus – Forever Is A Feeling
Mari Somerville – Luster
Nastazia Bazil – From Beirut To Anywhere
The New Eves – The New Eve Is Rising
Penelope Trappes – A Requiem
The Schla La Las – The Schla La Las Are Out To Have Fun
Slung – IN WAYS
Various Artists – vari/ations – Ode to Oram
WISP – If Not Winter

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Introducing Interview: Junk Whale

Having been big fans of Oxford’s grunge-pop faves Junk Whale since first hearing their 2022 debut (and fantastically named), Caught In The Act Of Looking Weird, we were super excited when they released a gorgeous new EP back in May. Over the last couple of months, I’ve been pretty much listening to See You Around, I guess? non-stop, unable to get enough of its scuzzy raw emotion and lilting indie-pop energy. Despite covering poignant themes such as grief and mental illness, the EP as a whole oozes an uplifting effervescent spirit, each track offering an instantly catchy jangly earworm (and not a repeating chorus in sight!). The band expand: “Lyrically, this might be our darkest release yet, written under the cloud of lockdown malaise and personal setbacks. But musically, it’s probably our most upbeat and energetic.”

To celebrate the EP’s release, and ahead of them playing live for us on 10th October at New River Studios supporting Belfast queer punks Strange New Places, we caught up with Junk Whale to find out more about the EP, their inspirations and the joy of playing gigs with plenty of non-men. Have a read, listen to the EP, and nab a ticket for 10th October now!


Hi Junk Whale! Welcome to Get In Her Ears! How are you all doing today?
We’re doing great, excited to be asked to do this!

Are you able to tell us a bit about what initially inspired you to start creating music and how you all came together as a band?
Hannah and I (Josie) have known each other since we were teenagers and played in a band together before Junk Whale called Four Thousand Dollar Ham Napkin. After that, ended we decided to challenge ourselves by writing, recording and releasing a brand new song every week for a year. It was a mad thing to do, no one was forcing us to do it and pretty much no one listened to the results! But that project was the start of Junk Whale. We met Jenny and Ali through the Oxford music scene and as soon as the four of us were together it stopped being this silly little recording project and started feeling like a really special band that we were all creatively involved in.

I love your scuzzy, emotion-filled indie-pop songs – who or what generally inspires your distinctive sound? 
We all love bands who mix noisy guitars with melodic hooks, bands like Dinosaur Jr., Sunny Day Real Estate, Sleater-Kinney, so naturally we’ve taken a lot of inspiration from those types of bands. Also, we’ve been really inspired by the local Oxford DIY music scene and all the weird and wonderful bands we’ve seen or played gigs with here. When we were starting out, Smash Disco were putting on these great punk and hardcore shows, and we’ve all played in bands doing that kind of music, so I think that’s where some of the emotional intensity and the rougher edges of the music come from. And then there’s Divine Schism, who put on a ton of really varied shows, but especially the more indie-rock-type stuff that we naturally slot in with really comfortably. When there’s a good local scene it really pushes you creatively to try to keep up with your friends’ bands.

You’ve just released your awesome new EP See You Around, I Guess which you’ve described as, lyrically, your “darkest release yet” –  are you able to tell me a bit more about the writing of the album and the themes running through it?
A lot of the songs on the EP were written during lockdown, and as well as the obvious massive cloud of doom hanging over everything, we all had our own personal stuff going on that coloured the lyrics. Jenny, Hannah and I all contributed lyrics to the songs on this EP – we tend to write about topics that are personal to us, so grief, mental illness and friendship break-ups were some of the things we wrote about this time.

And how would you say the whole recording process has differed from your 2019 eponymous album and 2022’s amazingly named EP Caught In The Act Of Being Weird?
The recording process for both EPs was pretty similar, Ali did the bulk of the engineering himself and we recorded each instrument separately. The album was a little different, we smashed through the whole thing in a couple days, mostly recording live with our pal Luke to help us. I think that probably gave the album a slightly different energy – we played everything about twice as fast because we were all on an adrenaline/sugar rush -, but it has been nice to be able to take our time with these recordings. I think it especially shows in the arrangements on things like vocal harmonies, that’s something we really pride ourselves on. And we’re very lucky to have such a talented sound engineer like Ali in the band! Junk Whale recording mostly consists of consuming a frankly irresponsible amount of snacks and fizzy drinks. One of my favourite memories of recording the new EP was when Ali, Hannah and I took a break to play football in a field near where we were recording – Jenny filmed us playing and used it for the ‘Bleeding Out’ video.

You’ve played loads of great gigs over the years, including supporting DIY heroes Martha and recently playing with GIHE fave Ray Aggs, but is there a particular show that stands out as a highlight for you? 
A stand out show for me was with Doe and Milk Crimes in 2019. Doe were (and are still) a band I really looked up to and who influenced my songwriting immensely, so playing with them was kind of a dream come true. Turns out they’re absolutely lovely humans too – sometimes you should meet your heroes! It was an also an emotional night for me because I’d only recently come out as trans to my bandmates and a few other close friends, and it was the first time I’d worn femme clothes and presented myself in public as ‘not-a-man’, so it’ll always be a special one for me.

And, sadly I have yet to manage to see you live (!) – for others who’ve not had the chance, what can fans expect from your live shows?
We love to rock out – sometimes this means going too hard too early and leaving myself out of breath by about the third song! We just like having fun, playing the music we love with our pals, and hopefully that results in a good time for the audience. Also, expect endearingly awkward stage banter, we really haven’t mastered that yet.

When you’re out on the road / playing gigs, are there any particular essentials you like to have with you to keep you going?
On our recent weekender with Nathy SG, we mostly survived on protein bars, Candy Kittens and fizzy drinks in only weird flavours. Ali’s puzzle books, Hannah’s Star Trek eps and my enormous collection of car CDs kept us going too!

As we’re an organisation focused on supporting new music by people of marginalised genders, I just wanted to ask how you feel the industry is for these communities at the moment? Do you feel that much has changed over the years in its treatment of women and queer artists?
We’ve not really involved ourselves with the ‘industry’, whatever that means. We only want to play gigs with bands and promoters who share our values and support women and queer artists. I don’t remember the last time we played a gig where we were the only band featuring non-men. In fact, the last few gigs we’ve played we haven’t even been the only band with a non-cis member – I don’t know if this is a sign of progress in general or just a sign that we’re choosing the right gigs to play, and maybe we’re just lucky that Oxford has such a diverse and inclusive music scene, but I think it goes to show that you don’t have to settle for shitty treatment if you don’t want to.

And are there any other bands / artists that you’d recommend we check out at the moment?
Top Shortage! They are one of the best bands in Oxford at the moment – they’re an amazing live band, especially their front-woman Noa who is just a mesmerising performer. They don’t have any recordings yet but hopefully some are on the way. And Leibniz from Brighton, they sound like all the grungey, heavy bands we loved when we were teenagers and they go HARD live. Also Fashion Tips from Newcastle & Leeds, who play very loud and danceable electro punk.

Finally, following your lovely EP, what does the rest of 2025 have in store for Junk Whale? 
We’re working on lots of new material and might even have some new recordings in the works. And we had so much fun on our weekend tour with Nathy SG and we’d love to do more gigging this year, there are so many places we haven’t played yet. Book us to play in your city!

Huge thanks to Junk Whale for answering our questions!

Make sure you check out Junk Whale’s gorgeous new EP, See You Around, I Guess? on bandcamp now, and also come along to catch their energetic and “endearingly awkward” live show supporting Belfast queer punks Strange New Places at New River Studios, along with Breakup Haircut, on 10th October. Tickets on Dice now!

Photo Credit: Ian Hanham

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PLAYLIST: June 2022

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

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

 

Petrol Girls – ‘Baby, I Had An Abortion’
The entirety of Petrol Girls’ new album Baby offers a totally necessary soundtrack for right now; each and every track a truly poignant reflection driven by a raging sense of urgency. I just wanted to highlight ‘Baby, I had An Abortion’ again, in the wake of the horrific overturning of Roe Vs Wade in the United States. An immense, empowering statement reflecting on vocalist Ren Aldridge’s own experiences of having an abortion in 2018 (having found out she was pregnant the morning that the Eighth Amendment was repealed in Ireland), ‘Baby, I Had An Abortion’ offers a stirring ode to bodily autonomy. A raging cacophony fuelled by a riotous catharsis; urging us to fight against the confines of this damaging patriarchal society and heinous pro-life laws.

At this time, it’s also important to remember that it’s not only in America that people are being denied access to safe abortions: with this release, Petrol Girls raise money for Abortion Without Borders – they’re a network of organisations that fund and support people in Poland to access abortion in neighbouring countries or at home with pills. Abortion laws were further tightened in Poland last year making it only legal in extremely limited circumstances. You can also donate to Abortion Support Network – helping people who need to access safe abortions in Ireland, Northern Ireland and other parts of Europe – here.
(Mari Lane)

Petrol Girls ft. Janey Starling – ‘Fight for Our Lives’
To echo what Mari has said, this track from Petrol Girls’ vital new album Baby, put a lump in my throat the first time I heard it. When Ren Aldridge screams “We’re on the streets again / another bed sheet painted with the blood of a sister” her rage is palpable, her fury undeniable. DIY punk and Kerrang-award-winning activist Janey Starling delivers an equally powerful guest vocal, and together their righteous anger acts as a call to arms to challenge the systems that try to deny women bodily autonomy and justice for the violence they continue to be subjected to. As well as the international organisations Mari has mentioned above, you can follow Level Up to find out more about how you can help achieve gender justice here in the UK.
(Kate Crudgington)

Deux Furieuses – ‘Bring Down The Government’
Having received acclaim from the likes of Radio X’s John Kennedy and currently members of Brix Smith (The Fall)’s band, punk duo Deux Furieuses have now shared a riotous new single. Raging with a fierce power and fervid sense of urgency, ‘Bring Down The Government’ is driven by a seething, blazing energy, building to an immense rallying cry to take a stand against Johnson’s government and the devastating effect it’s had on so many lives. (ML)

Agender – ‘Womb 2 Wound’
LA-based four piece Agender make “schizo, synthy, paranoid, post-punk with a dash of dysmorphic desire” and I am INTO IT. This track is taken from their recent album, No Nostalgia, and I’ve had the lyric “Fuck my biological clock / with my philosophical cock” ricocheting around my skull since I first heard it. The band are also due to release a remix EP in collaboration with JD Samson and Harvey Sutherland later this year! (KC)

Big Joanie – ‘Happier Still’
Big Joanie are BACK and we are THRILLED that they’ve shared this joyful new anthem. Released via Daydream Library Series/Kill Rock Stars, it’s a real rush of guitar-driven energy, inspired by the breakthrough that comes after a period of depression. Big Joanie have just played Glastonbury and performed as part of Grace Jones’ Meltdown festival at Southbank Centre, and we can’t wait to see what they do next. (KC)

Don Chi ft. Rosco Sauce – ‘Angry’
Mari & I had the pleasure of travelling over to Belfast to DJ at the Women’s Work Showcase in May (read our review here) and we were overwhelmed by the amount of music talent on the line-up (Problem Patterns, SPRINTS, Clara Tracey, Fraulein) and rapper Don Chi really impressed us with her effortless flow and hazy beats, which this track ‘Angry’ is full of. (KC)

Ghum – ‘Bitter’
Having been firm favourites here at GIHE for a number of years, London band GHUM have now released their much-awaited debut album, Bitter. Oozing a gritty, swirling energy as front person Laura’s vocals soar throughout, each track carries the band’s trademark ethereal allure and dark, hypnotic splendour, showcasing their ability to consistently hone their sound and bewitch listeners worldwide. Read our recent interview with Ghum here. (ML)

Brutus – ‘Dust’
Belgian trio Brutus are back with this new single ‘Dust’, born from the frustration caused by a demanding and unbalanced friendship. Stefanie Mannaerts’ defiant vocal leads the way, complimenting her powerhouse percussion and the charged, thundering riffs of guitarist Stijn Vanhoegaerden and bassist Peter Mulders’. The band have just announced a string of UK tour dates this November, including The Garage in London on the 22nd. Grab a ticket here. (KC)

Nova Twins – ‘Choose Your Fighter’
We’ve been big fans of Nova Twins here are GIHE for a few years and we’re thrilled to see them taking over the world with their uniquely heavy sound. This track is taken from their second album, Supernova, and it’s a blisteringly loud mix of Georgia’s deliciously distorted basslines and Amy’s visceral vocals. I had the privilege of writing the script for their Kerrang TV show ‘Nova Twins Presents The Anthems’ – a proper dream come true for someone who loves new music and who watched the channel as a teenager! (KC)

ARXX – ‘Couldn’t Help Myself’
The latest single from total faves ARXX offers a swirling slice of honey-sweet pop. A positive reflection on the freedom that can come from a break-up, it builds with a fizzing energy and the sassy allure of Hanni’s vocals to a colossal pure-pop banger, oozing a danceable, empowering drive. We cannot wait for ARXX to headline The Shacklewell Arms for us on 22nd July, with support from Fraulein and Lusa Morena. Tickets selling fast, so grab one here! (ML)

Ailbhe Reddy – ‘A Mess’
A lighthearted reflection on an early, chaotic relationship, ‘A Mess’ is the latest single from Irish-born, London-based alt-folk artist Ailbhe Reddy. Full of energetic guitar riffs, relatable lyrics and Reddy’s clear vocals, the track is a buoyant rumination on the cyclical nature of bad habits, the lasting effect of a seemingly throwaway comment and a lively effort to move past it. (KC)

ADDIE – ‘Crush Me’
This is a great tune from 19 year old singer-songwriter-producer-bassist Adeline Vamenta aka ADDIE. She’s just released her debut album, Crater Lake, which this single ‘Crush Me’ is taken from. Every instrument on the record was played by a woman or non-binary musician, which is probably why it sounds so good… (KC)

Planningtorock – ‘Gay Dreams They Do Come True’
June is Pride month, and as our friend & co-founder Tash Walker reminds us each year, it’s a time to celebrate our LGBTQIA+ siblings, commemorate important milestones and to call out the systems and the people in power who are trying to restrict the rights of the LGBTQIA+ community. Tash inspires us everyday, but their work on The Log Books Podcast and as a Co-Chair for Switchboard truly marks them out as an incredible force for change in both the LGBTQIA+ and wider spheres. I know Tash is a big fan of Planningtorock, so I thought I’d sneak this banger on to our playlist to celebrate all that they do. Big love to Tash and to all of our LGBTQIA+ followers this Pride month & all year round. x (KC)

GLITTERMXXTH – ‘HIM’
Inspired by everything from Grimes and Pussy Riot to matcha tea and hairless cats, ‘HIM’ is the latest single from producer & multi-instrumentalist GLITTERMXXTH. Their cyber-punk sounds are inspired by “the dirty, different and delicious alternative.” (KC)

Tiiva ft. Hellikisto – ‘IDORU’ (Grimes Cover)
I love this dreamy cover of Grimes’ 2020 single ‘IDORU’ by wonderfully talented producer and artist Tiiva. It’s a perfect tune for the (hopefully) warm summer evenings ahead. (KC)

all cats are beautiful – ‘Heartbeats’
With their rendition of The Knife’s ‘Heartbeats‘, all cats are beautiful (acab) offer a truly enchanting dreamscape. Flowing with delicate, twinkling hooks alongside the duo’s luscious harmonies, it’s a stripped back, yet instantly immersive, version of the original, adding the duo’s own unique resplendent grace and spellbinding allure. (ML)

Nikki & The Waves – ‘E.L.C.’
Manchester band Nikki & The Waves are fast becoming new faves, and have just released their new EP, Songs To Play Tennis To. Taken from the EP, latest single ‘E.L.C.’ (exceptionally lovely corduroy) offers a celebration of every indie kid’s favourite fabric. Propelled by the band’s trademark vibrant funk-fuelled groove and fizzing, blissful allure, it’s a perfectly danceable summer anthem. We can’t wait for Nikki & The Waves to headline for us at The Victoria on 12th August (with support from BAXTR and Panic Pocket) – get your tickets here. (ML)

Gemma Cullingford – ‘Tongue Tied’
With a new album set for release in September, Gemma Cullingford (of Sink Ya Teeth) has recently shared title track ‘Tongue Tied’. A reflection on feeling shy and being lost for words, it offers a danceable vibrant soundscape. Building with a frenzied drive, it interweaves zesty electronic hooks with Gemma’s distinctive sensuous vocals. We can’t wait for Gemma Cullingford to headline for us at The Shacklewell Arms on 10th September – a joint headline show with Alice Hubble, support will come from Yay Maria! Tickets here. (ML)

Helen Ganya – ‘Beautiful Country’
Taken from her recent EP, Heart Mirage, this poignant single from Helen Ganya (previously known as Dog In The Snow) is described as “a little tongue-in-cheek heartbreak on the illusion of meritocracy.” Underscored by Ganya’s reflections on the anti-Asian hate that resurfaced during the pandemic, the track is a an upbeat musing on what it means to be judged by the society you live in. (KC)

Katie Malco – ‘Animal’ (Alternate Version)
I was a bit late to the “Katie Malco is great party” but I remember thinking “this is a bit of me” the first time I heard her song ‘Animal’. She’s recently released this alternative version, and it’s just as good as the original. Check out her album Failures (2020) if you like the sound of this. (KC)

Rat Tally – ‘Spinning Wheel’
I love the soft anger that permeates Chicago-based Addy Harris aka Rat Tally’s latest single ‘Spinning Wheel’. Taken from her upcoming album In My Car, which is set for release on 12th August, the track is a hazy blend of atmospheric riffs, bittersweet vocals and introspective lyrics. (KC)

SASAMI ft. J Mascis – ‘Tried To Understand’
I have been obsessed with LA-based SASAMI’s album SQUEEZE since it was released earlier this year. It’s a mad, thrilling mix of metal, folk and grunge; something which is encapsulated on this superb remix of ‘Tried To Understand’, featuring J Mascis of Dinosaur Jr. (KC)

Bonnie Trash – ‘Teeth’
Bonnie Trash is the new “drone-rock” project of Canadian-Italian twin sisters Emmalia and Sarafina Bortolon-Vettor. Their latest single ‘Teeth’ is a delicious blend of distorted guitars and beguiling vocals, lamenting an ambiguous toxic love story. The band are due to release their debut album later this year via Hand Drawn Dracula. (KC)

A.A. Williams – ‘Evaporate’
A heavy, graceful musing on the darker side of the emotional spectrum, I love this track from London-based songwriter and multi-instrumentalist A.A. Williams. Taken from her upcoming second album, As The Moon Rests, which is set for release on 7th October via Bella Union, ‘Evaporate’ is a brooding blend of dramatic volume fluctuations and Williams’ effortless vocals, which mirror the raw sensitivity of her introspective lyrics. (KC)

Junk Whale – ‘Pilebox’
Oxford band Junk Whale have now announced the release of their new EP, Caught In The Act Of Looking Weird, next month. Taken from the EP, latest single ‘Pilebox’ pays homage to being yourself in the face of adversity. Propelled by a fuzzy, emo-tinged energy, raw impassioned vocals flow throughout as the track builds with a jangly allure to an anthemic blast of angst-driven splendour. Watch the new video for ‘Pilebox’ here. (ML)

Slagheap – ‘Destination Boyfriend’
Having just treated us to their wonderfully quirky charisma live, headlining our night at The Victoria last Friday, Bristol’s Slagheap have recently shared new single ‘Destination Boyfriend’. A joyously discordant yet euphoric celebration of femininity and feeling comfortable in your own skin, regardless of how far from the ‘norm’ you may stray, it reflects on the different paths that bisexuality may take you on, racing with a scrappy, jangly energy as clashing beats sizzle alongside swirling, scuzzy hooks. Appetites, the upcoming new EP from Slagheap, is set for release on 5th August. (ML)

YINYANG – ‘Happy Money’
The latest single from Irish artist Lauren Hannan, aka YINYANG, ‘Happy Money’ offers a poignant reflection on the struggles of depression and the frustration felt that happiness can often be dependent on expensive over-the-counter medication. Propelled by glitchy hooks and Hannan’s soaring rich vocals, it oozes a fierce impassioned drive and deep blistering beats with shades of GIHE fave Noga Erez. (ML)

J. Zunz – ‘Cruce’
Despite my overall positive, sunny disposition – I am a gloomy girl at heart – and that’s why I enjoy listening to the dark electronic sounds of Mexican artist J. Zunz so much. This track is taken from her recent album Del Aire. She’ll be playing alongside some amazing artists (Divide & Dissolve, No Home, A.A. Williams, Grove, Rachel Aggs, NYX Drone Choir) at this year’s Supersonic Festival. Full details here.

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Five Favourites & Video Premiere: Junk Whale – ‘Pilebox’

Following infectious recent single ‘Happy Birthday’, Oxford band Junk Whale have now announced the release of their new EP, Caught In The Act Of Looking Weird, next month. Taken from the EP, latest single ‘Pilebox’ pays homage to being yourself in the face of adversity. Propelled by a fuzzy, emo-tinged energy and scuzzy hooks, raw impassioned vocals flow throughout as the track builds with a jangly allure to an anthemic blast of angst-driven splendour. Of the track, the band explain:

“It started as an attempt to write a song that sounded like a mashup of Pile and Jawbox (hence the title), although it ended up not really sounding like either. It’s about the joy of living life on your own terms and trying not to worry about fitting into anyone else’s expectations of you.”

We think one of the best ways to get to know a band is by asking what music inspires them. So, to celebrate the release of a quirky brand new video for ‘Pilebox’ and the upcoming EP, we caught up with members of Junk Whale to ask about the music that has inspired them the most. See below for their choices of their five favourite songs, and watch the new video for ‘Pilebox’ at the bottom of this feature.

The Cribs – ‘Things You Should Be Knowing‘ (Jenny – bass/vox)
When I wrote the guitar bit that became ‘Airbed’ from the EP, I sat down and basically just tried to write a song that sounded like The Cribs. One of the reasons I was keen to join Junk Whale was I heard that Hannah & Josie were also huge Cribs fans. Needless to say, I love them. They’re so consistent in their ability to produce bangers even now, but their first album is still closest to my heart. It’s so delightfully ramshackle, and has such an infectious energy – listening to it makes me feel young and reckless again (and it makes me feel old to be writing that). It sounds like they’re having loads of fun without even having to try, as if they’re just mucking about in the garage, and even though they’re playing massive venues and festivals now, I’d still favour the ramshackle mucking about sound any day. 


Illuminati Hotties – ‘Knead’ (Ali – vox/production)
Illuminati Hotties are one of the few bands I’ve discovered recently that I’ve really connected with. This song does a really great job of balancing elements of indie rock, pop and grunge which is more or less what we’re trying to do in Junk Whale. Their lead singer, Sarah Tudzin, is a professional audio engineer and produces their songs; she does an amazing job and is a real inspiration for me.

Doe – ‘Julia Survived’ (Josie – guitar/vox)
I first saw Doe in 2016, supporting Muncie Girls in Brighton (also on the bill was another Junk Whale fave, Fresh). I left with a cassette copy of their First Four compilation, and over the next few weeks I rendered it more or less unlistenable by playing it over and over again. At that point, Hannah’s and my pre-Junk Whale band was coming to an end and we were thinking about our next project together. Somehow, Doe had managed to capture exactly the kind of music that we wanted to make. Every song on that comp is great, but ‘Julia Survived’ has always stood out to me. It has that visceral punch of emotion that I crave in music, and the overlapping vocal harmonies were definitely a big influence on our songwriting. Nicola Leel is up there with Corin Tucker from Sleater-Kinney in my “people I wish I could sing like” rankings.

Taking Back Sunday – ‘You Know How I Do’ (Hannah – guitar/vox)
I first got into Taking Back Sunday when I was in sixth form because the drummer in my band really wanted to cover ‘Cute Without the E’ and I’ve never looked back. Their first album, which this track opens, is pretty much without flaw in my eyes and I struggled to pick just one song from it. Something I really love about it is the sheer quantity of vocals; Adam Lazzara barely lets up for a second, singing over almost every section of every song, with John Nolan pitching in frequently for some really effective back-and-forth segments. I think we have a pretty different sound to Taking Back Sunday, but they’re always on my mind whenever I’m trying to structure a song, and especially when I’m writing vocal parts.

Dinosaur Jr. – ‘Little Fury Things’ (Josie – vox/guitar)
First hearing You’re Living All Over Me as a teenager was a genuinely life-changing moment. It exemplified everything I love about guitar music: heavy riffs, soaring solos, ear-scraping noise and, most of all, beautifully expressive rhythm-playing. It was the latter that had the biggest influence on my playing; messing around with different harmonies and chord combinations is my favourite thing to do with a guitar and has formed the basis of my songwriting. ‘Little Fury Things’ is the best example of this. After the pummelling drum intro and aural chaos of the opening section, the plaintive guitar and melancholy vocals of the verse completely disarm you. To me, this song is the best demonstration of the immense dynamic power of a distorted electric guitar.


Huge thanks to Junk Whale for sharing their Five Favourites with us! New EP, Caught In The Act Of Looking Weird, is set for release on 8th July via Reckless Yes. Watch the brand new video for latest single ‘Pilebox’ here:

Photo Credit: Tom Turner

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