GUIDE & PLAYLIST: The Great Escape Festival 2022

We’re excited to be heading back to The Great Escape Festival in just 3 days time (12th-14th May) to tread Brighton’s pebbled beach and trek around the city trying to catch some of the best new female, non-binary and LGBTQ+ music talent.

GIHE favourites ARXX, Brimheim, Fräulein, Bad Waitress, Mykki Blanco and Ailbhe Reddy 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 set times of the acts we’re keen to catch at the festival. You can get better acquainted with them by listening to our accompanying Spotify Playlist!

Get your tickets for The Great Escape here.

Don’t forget to check out the line-up for the Alternative Escape too!

 

Thursday 12th May

Fräulein
Playing at: Queens Hotel – 12:15pm-12:45pm

Bad Waitress
Playing at: TGE Beach Stage – 12:30-1:00pm

Grandmas House
Playing at: The MVT Stage – 12:30pm-1:00pm

HIGH SCHOOL
Playing at: Komedia Basement – 12:40-1:00pm

Tolu Makay
Playing at:
Prince Albert – 1:00-1:30pm
Brighthelm – 7:30-8:00pm

EFÉ
Playing at: Prince Albert – 2:00-2:30pm

flowerkid
Playing at: 2:00-2:25pm

Brimheim
Playing at: Waterbear 2:15pm-2:45pm

Kills Birds
Playing at:
TGE Beach Stage – 2:30pm-3:00pm
Horatios – 9:15-9:45pm

Ailbhe Reddy
Playing at: Revenge – 3:20-3:40pm

ARXX
Playing at:
The Hope & Ruin – 3:30-3:50pm
Brighton Youth Centre – 5:10pm

Mykki Blanco
Playing at: The Old Market – 5:15-5:45pm

Bleach Lab
Playing at: Latest Music Bar – 7:15-7:45pm

Spill Tab
Playing at: The Arch – 7:30-8:00pm

Kynsy
Playing at: The Hope & Ruin – 8:00-8:30pm

CASSYETTE
Playing at: Chalk – 8:15-:8:45pm

HUSSY
Playing at: Green Door Store – 8:15-8:45pm

MUNA
Playing at: Amazon New Music Stage – 8:15-8:45pm

Softcult
Playing at: Volks – 9:00-9:30pm

Billy Nomates
Playing at: Komedia Basement – 9:15-9:45pm

Goat Girl
Playing at: Amazon New Music Stage – 10:15-10:45pm

Let’s Eat Grandma
Playing at: The Old Market – 10:15-10:45pm

Lunar Vacation
Playing at: Green Door Store – 10:15-10:45pm

November Ultra
Playing at: One Church – 10:30-11:00pm

 

Friday 13th May

ZAND
Playing at: Revenge – 12:15-12:45pm

SPRINTS
Playing at: Prince Albert – 1:00-1:30pm

Bleach Lab
Playing at: Komedia Basement – 1:15-1:45pm

Gemini Aaliyah
Playing at: Latest Music Bar – 1:15-1:45pm

PEANESS
Playing at: Zahara – 1:15-1:45pm

ALEWYA
Playing at: TGE Beach Stage – 1:20-1:40pm

AMARIA BB
Playing at: Patterns downstairs – 1:30-2:00pm

CMAT
Playing at:
Prince Albert – 2:00-2:30pm
Komedia Basement – 10:15-10:45pm

Fräulein
Playing at: Zahara – 2:15-2:45pm

LIBRALIBRA
Playing at: The MVT Stage – 2:15-2:45pm

Panic Shack
Playing at: Brighthelm – 2:30-3:00pm

Kynsy
Playing at: Prince Albert – 3:00-3:30pm

tora-i
Playing at: TGE Beach Stage – 3:20-3:40pm

Bad Waitress
Playing at:
Green Door Store – 4:00-4:30pm
The Hope and Ruin – 11:00-11:30pm

Rachel Chinouriri
Playing at: Amazon New Music Stage – 6:15-6:45pm

Connie Constance
Playing at: Casablanca – 6:30-7:00pm

Projector
Playing at: The Tempest Inn – 7:00-7:30pm

Witch Fever
Playing at: Volks – 7:00-7:30pm

GROVE
Playing at: Coalition – 7:15-7:45pm

HIGH SCHOOL
Playing at: Horatios – 7:15-7:45pm

Priya Ragu
Playing at: Amazon New Music Stage – 7:15-7:45pm

Stella Donnelly
Playing at: Chalk – 7:15-7:45pm

CIEL
Playing at: Paganini Ballroom (The Old Ship) – 7:30-8:00pm

A.A. Williams
Playing at: The Old Market – 8:00-8:30pm

flowerkid
Playing at: Zahara – 8:00-8:30pm

LIDO PIMIENTA
Playing at: Jubilee Square – 8:15-8:45pm

APRIL
Playing at: Patterns Upstairs – 9:00-9:30pm

EFÉ
Playing at: Komedia Studio – 9:15-9:45pm

ENNY
Playing at: Brighton Dome Concert Hall – 9:15-9:45pm

Panic Shack
Playing at: Three Wise Cats (Casablanca) – 9:15-9:45pm

Prima Queen
Playing at: Horatios – 9:15-9:45pm

ARXX
Playing at: The Mucky Duck – 9:45pm

Let’s Eat Grandma
Playing at: Amazon New Music Stage – 10:15-11:00pm

Lime Garden
Playing at: TGE Beach Stage – 10:15-11:00pm

Wallice
Playing at: Horatios – 10:15-10:45pm

Momma
Playing at: Horatios – 11:15-11:45pm

Nuha Ruby Ra
Playing at: Komedia Studio – 12:15-12:45am

Porij
Playing at: Komedia Basement – 12:30-1:00am

 

Saturday 14th May

Maria Uzor
Playing at: Revenge – 12:10-12:40pm

Dream Nails
Playing at: Three Wise Cats (Casablancas) – 12:15-12:45pm

HAWXX
Playing at: Volks – 1:00-1:30pm

C’est Karma
Playing at: Prince Albert – 1:15-1:45pm

Fräulein
Playing at: Volks – 2:00-2:30pm

Softcult
Playing at: Green Door Store – 2:30-3:00pm

WOOM
Playing at: One Church – 3:00-4:00pm

Gemini Aaliyah
Playing at: Zahara – 3:30-4:00pm

Stella Donnelly
Playing at: 3:35-4:00pm

Jessica Winter
Playing at: The Arch – 6:15-6:45pm

CASSYETTE
Playing at: Concorde 2 – 6:30-7:00pm

Kay Young
Playing at: The Arch – 7:15-7:45pm

Sinead O’Brien
Playing at: Coalition – 7:15-7:45pm

Gen and the Degenerates
Playing at: The Hope and Ruin – 9:00-9:30pm

SPRINTS
Playing at: Prince Albert – 9:00-9:30pm

Coach Party
Playing at: Coalition – 9:15-9:45pm

LIDO PIMIENTA
Playing at: One Church – 9:15-9:45pm

Rachel Chinouriri
Playing at: Patterns downstairs – 9:30-10:00pm

Kate Crudgington
@KCBobCut

PLAYLIST: March 2022

The Get In Her Ears team have put together an eclectic mix of guitar tunes, post punk anthems, indie gems & immersive 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.

Charlotte Adigery x Bolis Pupul – ‘Ceci n’est pas un cliché’
‘Ceci n’est pas un cliche’ by Charlotte Adigery and Bolis Pupul, whose debut album Topical Dancer came out earlier this month. I had the absolute pleasure of interviewing Charlotte, where we talked about the new album, the therapeutic process of making music and the use of laughter to tackle complex topics and her lovely little baby Rocko also joined us for the chat. You can listen back to that interview on our latest Soho Radio show. (Tash Walker)

Julia-Sophie – ‘Dial Your Number’
The latest single from one of our favourites Julia-Sophie, whose new EP, it feels like thunder, has just dropped and it doesn’t disappoint. It comes as part of a trilogy of releases through Beat Palace Records, the new label set up by Anna Prior of Metronomy which has a heavy focus on championing women artists. Julia-Sophie will also be headlining our gig at The Shacklewell Arms on 1st June with support from Dewey and Maria Uzor. Grab your ticket via DICE here. (TW)

Ethel Cain – ‘Gibson Girl’
Since I heard her single ‘Crush’ last year, I have been compulsively listening to American songwriter Ethel Cain. Her heady, devastating tunes throw me off-kilter whenever I hear them and this track is no exception. Taken from her highly anticipated debut album, Preacher’s Daughter, which is set for release on 12th May, ‘Gibson Girl’ is a lustful, deeply provocative offering inspired by American model Evelyn Nesbit. Cain offers some more perspective on the track: “Being a woman is about never quite reaching a goal that someone else set for you. Under pressure to fit an impossible standard, I find myself daydreaming about what it would be like to be perfect in a way I can’t ever possibly achieve. I’ve always been in love with Evelyn Nesbit, the Gibson Girl, and thought she was the absolute pinnacle of feminine poise and grace. Whenever I start to lose myself and forget what I’m capable of, I just turn to her and she’s the greatest reminder.” (Kate Crudgington)

Ailsa Tully – ‘Salt Glaze’
The latest single from Welsh artist Ailsa Tully, ‘Salt Glaze’ offers a poignant reflection on the time that Tully and her partner spent in her late Grandmother’s house during the January lockdown last year. A truly immersive soundscape emanating a comforting warmth and exquisite captivating grace. You can watch the very cute video for ‘Salt Glaze’ here. (ML)

Tomberlin – ‘Tap’
I haven’t been able to stop listening to American songwriter Tomberlin since her single ‘Happy Accident‘ dropped into my inbox last month. Her poetic lyrics are so simple, yet they feel so profound and graceful when she sings them. This track is taken from her upcoming album, I Don’t Know Wo Needs To Hear This, set for release on 29th April via Saddle Creek, and it’s a beautiful musing on trying to disconnect from the digital world and focus on genuine human interaction – something we’ve all been craving since 2020. I think her opening line about over-using Instagram is superb: “Tap the heart until I hate myself / Hit the square, and rearrange myself / I don’t like it what it does to me / Never makes me want to laugh, or sing.” I can’t wait to hear Tomberlin’s songs live at St Matthias Church on 5th April. (KC)

Fears – ’16’
Transforming her ruminations on a troubled past relationship into an elegant, exquisitely raw offering, ’16’ is the latest release from Irish musician & producer Constance Keane aka Fears. Released via her own imprint TULLE, the track is a combination of meditative synth loops, tentative beats and the instrumentals of her late friend, classically trained cellist and trans rights activist Sophie Gwen Williams. These elements mesh together to create a truly soothing, magnetic soundscape. Accompanied by a beautiful video, shot & directed by Zoe Greenway – who performs alongside Keane in punk band M(h)aol – the visuals are a poignant tribute to Williams too. (KC)

Hannah Schneider – ‘Mirror Sphere’ (ML)
‘Mirror Sphere’ is the new single from Danish artist Hannah Schneider, who is also one half of GIHE faves AyOwA. Whilst more stripped back than we’ve come to expect from Ayowa, this solo venture maintains all the glistening majestic splendour and cinematic grace that we associate with Schneider, creating an enchanting hybrid of sounds. (ML)

Real Big Sky – ‘Long Lost’
A brooding, atmospheric musing on feelings of loneliness and isolation, Gothenburg four-piece Real Big Sky have shared their debut single ‘Long Lost’. Full of moody guitar sounds, shiver-inducing cymbal smashes and melancholic vocals, the track is a captivating slice of dark indie noise. I can’t wait to hear the band’s self-titled debut album, which is set for release on the 13th of May. (KC)

Scrounge – ‘This Summer’s Been Lethal’ (ML)
South London duo Lucy and Luke aka Scrounge have now announced the release of their upcoming debut album, and we couldn’t be more excited. Taken from the album, ‘This Summer’s Been Lethal’ builds with a bewitching tension and potent beats, creating a stark soundscape. Oozing the duo’s trademark deep stirring allure and dark, compelling energy, an added uptempo edge propels the track, inciting a small glimmer of hope in these uncertain times. A swirling, immersive wall of sound, here Scrounge have showcased how they are consistently honing their sound; adding innovative layers to create resonant, cathartic anthems for the present day. (ML)

Oceanator – ‘Stuck’
I’m a big fan of this new single from Brooklyn artist Oceantor, taken from her excellently titled new album, Nothing’s Ever Fine, set for release on 8th April via Big Scary Monsters. I love the charging rhythms and doomy riffs on ‘Stuck’, which as Oceanator explains, is “about that feeling of all your collective traumas, disappointments, and general sadness just accumulating over the years and weighing you down more and more.” (KC)

Francis Of Delirium – ‘The Fun House’
“This is a call to arms” sings Jana Bahrich aka Francis Of Delirium in the opening to this single, instantly commanding listeners with her grungy riffs and clear vocals. A reflection on the manic and disorientating mindset that’s been accepted as “the new normal” over the past two years, Bahrich’s track is a cathartic rush of angst that questions what’s “left to believe” in such an overwhelming world. (KC)

Horsegirl – ‘Anti-glory’
I love this playful, rumbling cacophony from Chicago post-punk outfit Horsegirl. Taken from their debut album, Versions of Modern Performance, which is set for release on 3rd June, the band – formed of best friends Penelope Lowenstein, Nora Cheng and Gigi Reece – wrote ‘Anti-Glory’ “almost by accident” whilst messing around with an old song during rehearsals. When speaking about the track, the band say: “As always, this song and album are for Chicago, our friends, our friend’s bands, everyone who can play the guitar, and everyone who can’t play the guitar.” I like that! (KC)

Proper. – ‘Huerta’
Happy album release day to Brooklyn trio Proper.! The band have shared their new album, The Great American Novel, which is a punk infused concept record about how black genius is routinely overlooked and ignored. On this track ‘Huerta’, lead vocalist Erik Garlington evaluates his thoughts about his Mexican heritage, offering listeners an insight into what it means to censor or ignore parts of yourself and the impact this can have on your own identity, as well as the wider perception of this identity in predominantly white spaces. “If these audiences are going to be a voyeur to the Black experience, I want them to hear this record and learn about our identity crises,” Garlington continues about the band’s new album. Proper.’s unfiltered approach on ‘Huerta’ and The Great American Novel is a cathartic and necessary antidote to this voyeurism. (KC)

Petrol Girls – ‘Baby I Had An Abortion’
Highlighting the truth that everyone should have access to an abortion, without shame, ‘Baby, I Had An Abortion‘ oozes a brutal, unapologetic honesty, propelled by the gritty, seething force of Ren Aldridge’s vocals. An immense, empowering statement reflecting on Aldridge’s own experiences of having an abortion in 2018, it offers a poignant ode to bodily autonomy. A raging cacophony fuelled by a riotous catharsis that emits both joy and anger. (ML)

Problem Patterns – ‘Y.A.W’
A powerful, necessary anthem for women and girls who have spoken out against violent misogyny only to be told they’re “just a bitch who can’t take a joke,” it was a privilege to premiere Belfast Punks Problem Patterns video for their poignant new single ‘Y.A.W’ earlier this month. An acronym for ‘Yes All Women’ – antagonising the social media excuse ‘Not All Men’ – the track seethes with a righteous fury, underscored by Ciara’s King’s buzzing basslines, Beverley Boal’s striking guitar riffs, Bethany Crooks’ thudding beats and Alanah Smith’s crystalline vocals. It’s a visceral rumination on the universal rage and despair that permeates our consciousness in the wake of public violence towards women, in particular, the misogynist killings of Sarah Everard and Aisling Murphy. Watch the video here. (KC)

LibraLibra – ‘Here’s To You Mr Robinson’ (ML)
GIHE faves LibraLibra today release their second EP, Modern Millenial. Taken from the EP, latest single ‘Here’s To You Mr Robinson’ offers a satirical FU to the UK Government and any other right wing cretins. Initially inspired by the Tommy Robinson milkshake-in-face incident, it’s driven by a frenzied electro-driven whirr as the impassioned vocal prowess of front-person Beth Cannon soars. Another colossal cacophony showcasing the immense genre-defying power of this band on the rise. (ML)

Projector – ‘Play Along’
A brooding exploration on “the cognitive dissonance that allows you to feel like you are god’s gift, whilst simultaneously feeling like a piece of shit,” I love this new track from Brighton trio Projector. Splicing the dual vocals of Edward Ensbury and Lucy Sheehan with angular riffs, restless rhythms and ominous synths, the track marks new sonic territory for the band and I’m looking forward to seeing what they do next. (KC)

Body Type – ‘Buoyancy’
A rousing, energetic slice of indie punk, this fun new single from Australian trio Body Type is taken from their debut album, Everything Is Dangerous But Nothing’s Surprising, which is set for release on 20th May 20th. Inspired by a text exchange between bandmates Annabel Blackman and Georgia Wilkinson, ‘Buoyancy’ lives up to its namesake and is all about “grappling with internal inconsistencies and moral ambiguities in an incoherent style.” The band also say it’s “a personal reminder that when certain things are rendered uncertain, those you love are an eternal rudder.” C.U.T.E. (KC)

Breakup Haircut – ‘Out Of My Way (I’m Not Getting On The Nightbus’) (ML)
Having wowed us live with their scuzzy, joyous punk-pop at our January gig at The Victoria, Breakup Haircut have now shared a jangly new offering, dedicated to those of us who may not be too fond of big social gatherings. ‘Get Out Of My Way (I’m Not Getting On The Nightbus)’ flows with a jangly, uplifting energy and snarly wit as the band’s colourful charisma shines through. Breakup Haircut are set to release their debut album on 15th July via Reckless Yes. (ML)

girlhouse – ‘paul blart mall cop’
An honest musing about her experience of living with depression, this is a tender but buoyant new offering from US bedroom-pop artist Lauren Luiz aka girlhouse. Through her confessional lyrics and catchy melodies, she explores what she calls “the ultimate dilemma as a person that has dealt with depression for the majority of their life – not wanting to live but not wanting to die.” Despite its heavy context, girlhouse delivers her observations with earnest and cathartic flair. (KC)

BEORMA – ‘Without You’
A bittersweet reflection on losing someone you love and as a result a part of yourself, Birmingham-based band Beorma have shared their latest single ‘Without You’. Mixing R&B and indie pop sensibilities with a smooth heartfelt vocal, the track is an unexpectedly upbeat listen, brimming with emotion and a melody that warmly rushes the senses. (KC)

Amaroun – ‘Brown Skin Beauty’
A poignant offering reflecting on a personal journey of building in confidence to having the freedom to feel comfortable in your own black queer skin, this latest single from GIHE fave Amaroun flows into the ears with a sweeping ethereal soundscape. As her soaring, luscious vocals ripple atop the shimmering musicality, a truly blissful offering oozing a sparkling majestic grace is created. Mars, the upcoming debut album from Amaroun, is set for release on 3rd June. (ML)

King Hannah – ‘All Being Fine’
Having just released their debut album, I’m Not Sorry, I Was Just Being Me, Liverpool duo King Hannah have been firm favourites here at GIHE for a while now. Latest single ‘All Being Fine’ flows with an eerily captivating energy alongside Merrick’s trademark rich, sultry vocals. Building with a dark, iridescent splendour, it oozes a gritty, spellbinding allure, showcasing King Hannah’s unique, majestic grace and exquisite ability to create soundscapes with a truly compelling ethereal power. (ML)

Jenny Hval – ‘Year of Love’
In the run up to seeing Jenny Hval in April, I’ve been filling my ears with the fruits of her latest album Classic Objects, including this song ‘Year of Love’. It’s such a gentle song with those distantly haunting vocals of Hval swooping over like melodic drones, bliss. (TW)

Pongo – ‘Doudou’
‘Doudou’ is the latest release from Angolan-Portuguese artist Pongo who has often been described as the new diva of kuduro – and for good reason! Since her debut, Pongo has never stopped renewing the heritage of this genre by feeding it with sounds from all over the world. Just like this one. (TW)

Track Of The Day: LibraLibra – ‘Here’s To You Mr Robinson’

Having previously blown us away with the unique energy of their live shows, as well as receiving acclaim from the likes of BBC 6Music, BBC Radio 1 and Clash for their pop-infused riotous offerings, GIHE faves LibraLibra are now set to release their second EP, Modern Millennial.

Taken from the EP, new single ‘Here’s To You Mr Robinson‘ offers a satirical FU to the UK Government and any other right wing cretins. Initially inspired by the Tommy Robinson milkshake-in-face incident, it’s driven by a frenzied electro-driven whirr as the impassioned vocal prowess of front-person Beth Cannon soars. Fusing together a bewitching honey-sweet allure with a fiercely gritty drive, it swirls with a ferocious energy and fizzing sense of urgency that demands multiple listens. An utterly necessary, instantly catchy raging anthem against the ‘Tory Purgatory’ we seem to be stuck in. Another epic, colossal cacophony showcasing the immense genre-defying power of this band on the rise.

Watch the wonderfully trippy new video (directed by Apple Shampoo) for ‘Here’s To You Mr Robinson’ here:

Modern Millennial, the upcoming second EP from LibraLibra, is out this Friday 25th March. Catch LibraLibra live on their current UK tour.

Mari Lane
@marimindles

PLAYLIST: November 2021

The GIHE team have unearthed more new music gems for you to listen to on our November Playlist! There’s an eclectic mix of indie anthems, gritty guitar tunes, alt-pop tracks & immersive electronic sounds. 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.

 

Problem Patterns – ‘Terfs Out’
Headliners of our gig at The Shacklewell Arms this Friday 3rd December, Northern Irish punks Problem Patterns are total faves with the GIHE, and the immense ‘Terfs Out’ is a sentiment we fully endorse. As the song says, “LGB is nothing if not for the T / So show up with some real solidarity.” I cannot wait to host the band’s first ever London gig and witness their impassioned, frenzied energy live, along with support from pink suits and GUTTS. Get your tickets on DICE now. (Mari Lane)

Agender – ‘No Nostalgia’
The latest release from LA post-punk band Agender. This is the title track from their upcoming album which is set for release in February next year, and it has just the right serving of dysmorphic desire to get your heart beating faster. Enjoy. (Tash Walker)

Momma – ‘Medicine’
A melodic reflection on the intoxicating power of new romance, this single from New York City four-piece Momma is so, so good! Released via Polyvinyl Record Co. & Lucky Number, the track is an aural headrush centered around the passionate emotions that come with an all-consuming crush, full of hazy vocals and infectious guitar riffs. (Kate Crudgington)

VERO – ‘Beg!’
A seething guitar anthem fueled by the anger that’s left behind by a flawed relationship, ‘Beg!’ is the debut single from Stockholm-based trio VERO. Released via PNKSLM and one half of an upcoming 7″ single that’s set for release on 14th January, the track is saturated with brooding bass lines, swirling riffs and stinging vocals. I LOVE it and can’t wait to hear more from the trio next year. (KC)

The Golden Age of TV – ‘What I’ve Been Through’
Leeds art-rockers The Golden Age of TV have shared this loud and vitally important track which, as vocalist Bea Fletcher explains, is “a statement, of sorts, from the perspective of someone who’s experienced sexual violence.” Permeated by raging riffs and Fletcher’s powerful vocals, the track simply asks “for nothing more than to be heard and believed.” (KC)

Sister Ghost – ‘Buried Alive’ 
Derry based duo Shannon Delores O’Neill and Maeve Mulholland – aka Sister Ghost – have just released their brilliantly titled new EP Stay Spooky. Taken from the EP, latest single ‘Buried Alive’ oozes their distinctive swirling, gritty power as soaring impassioned vocals and catchy hooks rage with a seething energy. A perfect slice of sparkling rock ‘n’ roll, exuding a much-needed empowering raucous spirit. Read our recent interview with Shannon here. (ML)

Proper. – ‘Red, White & Blue’
I’m new to Brooklyn punks Proper. but I’m a big fan of this track, which is the first taste of the sound of the band’s upcoming album set for release in 2022. Vocalist & guitarist Erik Garlington explains the context of ‘Red, White, & Blue’ further: “A lot of millennials in my life share the sentiment that being American feels like being in an abusive relationship that you can’t find the courage to leave. I knew I wanted to focus on looking at what makes this country what it is, and how hopeless I feel to stop it.” (KC)

Dutch Mustard – ‘What The People Want’
“‘What The People Want’ is about playing the system, a realisation that you can do anything, give the people what they want, and still stay truthful” explains Dutch Mustard, aka Sarah-Jayne Riedel, about her latest single. Full of lush vocals and rolling rhythms, the track is an infectious slice of alt-rock, lifted from her upcoming EP which is set for release early next year. (KC)

JASMYN – ‘Find The Light’
JASMYN – aka Jasmyn Burke former frontwoman of Weaves – has signed to ANTI- and embarked on her new solo project and released this brilliant single. “This song was loosely written during the Fall of 2020,” she explains. “The world was feeling pretty heavy, and I felt myself wanting to write music that created a mood of happiness and space to grow. It feels like we’re living in this sort of in-between space, where life is altering. I wanted to explore finding comfort and hopefulness through uncomfortable change.” JASMYN achieves this via her relatable lyrics, distinctive riffs and charged beats. (KC)

LibraLibra – ‘Candy Mountain’ (ML)
The latest single from total heroes LibraLibra, ‘Candy Mountain’ showcases their knack for creating immense, swirling soundscapes, propelled by the magnificent, angst-driven power and gritty splendour of front woman Beth Cannon’s impassioned vocals. Another wonderfully genre-defying cacophony from the band. Kate and I were lucky enough to catch LibraLibra live at their single launch the other week – they really are one of the most exciting bands to see; fizzing with a captivating charisma and riotous energy. (ML)

The Klittens – ‘Canned Air’
The first single to be taken from Amsterdam’s The Klittens’ debut EP, ‘Canned Air‘ captures the band’s self-described air of “happy songs and sad sentiments” perfectly. Propelled by shimmering hooks and a raw, scuzzy energy, it builds with a fizzing whirr to an impassioned climax, before winding back down with luscious vocal harmonies, oozing a gentle, stirring emotion. I can’t wait to hear more from this Dutch band; new ones to watch for sure! (ML)

Brimheim – ‘Hey Amanda’
I can’t get enough of this track from Danish musician Brimheim. Taken from her upcoming and excellently titled album, can’t hate myself into a different shape, which is set for release on 28th January, ‘Hey Amanda’ is a celebration of platonic love and an ode her best friend, brimming with nostalgic lyrics, warm guitar sounds and tender vocals. There’s a very cool accompanying video that features members of Baby In Vain too. (KC)

Kills Birds – ‘Married’
It’s been a long time since I’ve been able to mention The Great Escape, but LA punks Kills Birds were recently announced as one of the First Fifty artists who will be performing at the Brighton-based festival in 2022! I’m hoping to be back by the seaside screaming about how much I love new music then. (KC)

O Hell – ‘Down’
After years spent touring and recording music in alternative bands around the UK, Projector’s Lucy Sheehan is venturing into fresh sonic territory under their new moniker O Hell. Influenced by a love of eclectic, brooding soundscapes and aspirations for pure self-autonomy, their debut single ‘Down’ is an “exercise in refusing compromise” brimming with Sheehan’s distinctive vocals and jagged electronics. (KC)

Circe – ‘Mess With Your Head’
I’m a moth to a flame when it comes to Circe’s sultry pop creations. Co-produced by Emre Turkmen (formerly Years & Years), this new track is a crushed-heart-banger, a dazzling blend of distinctive vocals, Kate Bush inspired beats and jagged electronics. There’s even a Shakespeare inspired lyric worked into it too – “You gave me your heart / and I gave you a pound of flesh.” (KC)

Dyan Valdes – ‘Fade Away’ (ML)
Having been involved in the music industry for twenty years, Berlin-based Cuban-American artist Dyan Valdés has played in esteemed bands such as The Blood Arm and Die Sterne, and has now released her first solo material. Taken from her upcoming debut solo album, ‘Fade Away’ offers an immersive shimmering soundscape; propelled by layers of synth and driving beats alongside Valdés’ luscious vocals, it’s a poignant, twinkling message of hope at a time when things can feel hopeless. Read our recent interview with Dyan here. (ML)

Flowerkid – ‘I Met The Devil At 4 Years Old’
This track is taken from Sydney-based Flowerkid’s much-anticipated debut EP, Everyone Has A Breaking Point. The EP covers many personal issues and topics from gender dysphoria, mental health and misogyny – seeking true self-expression beyond ever-restricting heteronormative constraints. Cannot argue with that. It’s also a tuneee. (TW)

BISHI – ‘Let My Country Awake’ (The Anchoress Remix)
Multi-instrumentalist, producer and GIHE fave BISHI has shared a collection of remixes for the title track of her recent album Let My Country Awake, and this version by The Anchoress is my favourite. Check out Samantha Togni and Hannah Holland’s remixes of the track too. (KC)

Shamir – ‘Cisgender’
I’m just totally addicted to this song right now. I’ve been a fan of Shamir for years and really admire how they’re constantly developing their sound and not shying away from being their true self. I just think this single ‘Cisgender’ is a beautiful and moving reflection on their non binary identity. I don’t think anything I say about this track will do Shamir justice, so I’ll leave you with the lyrics: “I’m not cisgender / I’m not binary trans / I don’t wanna be a girl / I don’t wanna be a man / I’m just existing on this god forsaken land.” Solidarity and love to you Shamir, always. (ML)

Baauer, Tirzah – ‘Way From Me’
I love Tirzah, there is no denying it. I got to see her perform at the Oval Space a couple of weeks ago, fully immersing myself in their wonderful, mesmerising sounds as part of Pitchfork Festival. She didn’t play this track on the night but it’s a recent collab I’ve come across and I’m vibing it. (TW)

fanclubwallet – ‘That I Won’t Do’
Ottawa-based artist fanclubwallet aka Hannah Judge has shared this wonderful alt-pop tune about recovering and re-emerging back into the world again, a relatable sentiment in these unusual times. “When I wrote this song, I was recovering from a year long illness and re-entering into the socializing world (like so many others post pandemic),” Hannah explains. “The song is about dealing with a new relationship/friendship where you aren’t sure whether the person is good for you or not, and you’re not feeling like yourself. It’s about trying to break bad habits while not wanting to break them at all.” (KC)

Prima Queen – ‘Chew Your Cheeks’
Released via Nice Swan Recordings and produced by The Big Moon, this fab single from London-based duo Prima Queen – aka best friends Louise Macphail and Kristin McFadden – explores the swirl of emotions that come when you have an unhealthy infatuation with someone unobtainable. The pair explore their ailing fascination via soft vocals and sultry guitar twangs, giving the track its buoyant, relatable charm. (KC)

Why Bonnie – ‘Galveston’
The latest single from the Texas quintet, ‘Galveston’ is a much-needed slice of sunshine for these chilly, dark days. Oozing a heartfelt twinkling grace and warming, shimmering emotion, it offers a wistful, nostalgic reflection – harking back to memories of childhood visits to the island city of Galveston. Flowing with lilting melodies alongside the soothing allure of Blair Howerton’s vocals, it’s an irresistibly uplifting slice of sparkling indie-pop. (ML)

Aisha Badru – ‘Rooted’
The latest single from Aisha Badru, ‘Rooted’ offers a comforting, dreamy warmth. Flowing with a shimmering grace, a sweeping majestic splendour ripples throughout this beautifully stirring ballad as its poignant lyricism swirls throughout. A simply exquisite, evocative creation that’ll soothe the ears with its resplendent, uplifting allure. The Way Back Home, the upcoming EP from Aisha Badru, is set for release on 3rd December. (ML)

Jackie Ward – ‘Chlorine’
West London-based non-binary artist Jackie Ward makes music inspired by an eclectic range of influences, including Car Seat Headrest to Frank Ocean to Xiu Xiu. This track ‘Chlorine’ is full of their soft vocals and dreamy guitar sounds, exploring their own identity and experience of coming out. Jackie is due to release their debut album later this year. (KC)

KIN – ‘The Runaways’
Consisting of Grace, Adam and Ritu, GIHE faves KIN have previously played live for us and continue to charm our ears with their glistening alt-pop. Reflecting on the mixed feelings of leaving a settled life and starting afresh somewhere new, ‘The Runaways’ showcases the distinctive celestial allure of Grace’s vocals alongside chiming hooks and a shimmering energy. ‘The Runaways’ is accompanied by a really beautiful self-directed video which you can watch here. (ML)

MIRI – ‘Trends’
East London artist and friend of GIHE MIRI has previously charmed our ears with poignant offerings such as ‘Electric Vibes’ and has now shared a powerful new single. A reflection on coming together and uniting in the face of adversity, using our imagination and creativity to fight political corruption, ‘Trends’ is propelled by MIRI’s distinctive soulful vocals that flow with a raw, gritty energy and catchy, empowering spirit. Prior to its release on mainstream platforms, ‘Trends’ was shared exclusively on the pay-as-you-go platform Sonstream. MIRI has been outspoken in her support for the “fair play” platform, which offers independent artists an ethical alternative to the miniscule royalties as little as £0.007 or £0.0028 per stream offered by platforms like Tidal and Spotify. (ML)

Belot – ‘Harmless Fun’
This track is bursting full of pop-bopping beats and maybe even a cowbell… what more could you want to get your toes tapping in those chilly winter evenings? (TW)