PLAYLIST: April 2024

The Get In Her Ears team have put together another eclectic mix of alternative & shoegaze anthems, unusual electronic sounds, indie-folk musings, and alt pop 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.

Fraulein – ‘Pruning’
Taken from their upcoming mini album, Sink Or Swim, which is due on the 14th June, ‘Pruning’ is one of my favourite Fräulein tracks to date. It’s a seamless blend of their brooding grunge riffs, bittersweet vocals and bristling beats. The GIHE team are consistently impressed by all that Joni and Karston create, and I especially love the accompanying video to this song, which features Joni dressed as an angel wandering around the streets of London. Watch it here. (Kate Crudgington – Features Editor)

King Hannah – ‘Davey Says’
The latest single from Liverpool duo King Hannah, ‘Davey Says’ flows with a lilting energy as a beautifully fuzzy raw emotion oozes from delicate harmonies. The band poignantly describe the track as “… our attempt at that classic American ‘90s imagery, of coming-of-age nostalgia and romance, of late warm summer nights when the future is draped in front of you.” I first fell in love with King Hannah on hearing their stirring debut ‘Creme Brulee’ back in 2019, and it’s been really wonderful to see all their well-deserved success over the last few years, with second album Big Swimmer set for release on 31st May via City Slang. (Mari Lane – Managing Editor)

Human Interest – ‘Shapeshifting’
With more of a reflective tone than the grunge-fuelled groove of previous singles, the new one from Human Interest showcases the East London band’s impressive songwriting range, as they appear unafraid to share a moment of vulnerability. Reflecting on the different sides of us that we may or may not feel comfortable with from day to day, ‘Shapeshifting’ is propelled by an anthemic raw emotion as Cat and Tyler’s vocals interweave with an exquisite grace. Speaking about the track, they say: “I think it’s hard, when you’re queer, to feel like you’re being truly authentic to yourself. There are so many experiences that happen while growing up that make you hide who you really are. When you spend your formative years doing this, I think it becomes so ingrained in you that you end up as an adult not really knowing where your true self begins and the person you felt you had to be ends.” (ML)

Kynsy – ‘Money’
Having been a fan of Dublin’s Kynsy since she released ‘Cold Blue Light’ back in 2020, I’m chuffed to see her back with this excellent new single. Newly signed to Nice Swan Recordings, ‘Money’ is a gritty indie-infused reflection on “the depths of love, nostalgia…and a mixture of conflicting emotions.” (KC)

Maya Lakhani – ‘Walk Alone’
Having had the honour of having rock powerhouse Maya Lakhani play her first ever gig with us back in 2022, we’re incredibly excited to be hosting her first ever headline show on 17th May at Sebright Arms. Joined by queer grungers Comic Sans and exciting new project of Sit Down’s Katie, Slung, it’s going to be a pretty special night. We saw Maya again recently with an incredible set at Cro Cro Land, and recommend not missing out on this one – nab tickets here (they’re cheaper in advance, and wouldn’t it be wonderful for Maya to sell-out her first headline show!). (ML)

Softcult – ‘One Of The Pack’
Lifted from their upcoming EP, Heaven, which is set for release on 24th May, this track from Canadian sibling duo Softcult is a heady, swirling “inclusionary anthem”. Mercedes and Phoenix Arn-Horn want their fans to know that ‘One Of The Pack’ is their way of saying “that POC, trans women, and non-binary people will always be a welcome and crucial part of our grrrl gang” – it’s a heartening and necessary message, set to their trademark heavy riffs and emotive lyrics. (KC)

Glixen – ‘Lust’
Arizona-based shoegazers Glixen are new to me, but I was instantly hooked on ‘Lust’ – an intoxicating blend of reverb, crashing cymbals and hypnotic vocals. The band are preparing to share their second EP, which will be the follow up to their 2023 debut offering, She Only Said. I can’t wait to hear more from them in the near future. (KC)

Lambrini Girls – ‘Body Of Mine’
Continuing to unapologetically speak their minds and stand up for what they believe in, whilst gaining legendary fans like Sleater Kinney and Iggy Pop along the way, Brighton’s Lambrini Girls have now shared another fierce anthem. Touching on a slightly more personal, but no less important, issue than previous releases, ‘Body Of Mine’ reflects on connecting with your gender identity, as it races with the band’s trademark seething sense of urgency. Of the track, they expand: “Gender is a complex experience… It’s tough to feel that nobody really gets you and it’s also truly quite shit when you don’t really know how to understand yourself either.” Another truly necessary offering, marking Phoebe and Lilly out as a truly formidable force that we need now more than ever. (ML)

Queen Cult – ‘Stop Calling’
Having been truly blown away by Macclesfield-based Queen Cult when they played live for us a couple of years back, it’s great to see the band going from strength to strength with each new release. Born out of the frustration of getting unwanted attention and the way in which people feel entitled to cross boundaries, ‘Stop Calling’ exudes the band’s raging energy and angst-fuelled drive, as they continue to share their queer, politically-charged anthems with a sparkling defiance. Catch Queen Cult live in London at Oslo as part of Luck Juice Festival on 18th May – tickets here. (ML)

Julie Christmas – ‘Supernatural’
Seamlessly switching from a bittersweet yearning vocal in verses, to a cord-ripping scream in the chorus; this visceral new offering from Julie Christmas (Made Out of Babies, Battle of Mice) is as melodic as it is metal. ‘Supernatural’ is lifted from her eagerly anticipated second solo album, the excellently titled Ridiculous and Full of Blood, which is set for release on 14th June via Cult Of Luna’s Red Crk label. (KC)

Charley Stone – ‘Better With You’
With a musical CV too long to list, having played with multiple bands over the years and currently a gigging guitarist with the likes of Sleeper and Desperate Journalist, scene queen Charley Stone is now set to release her own debut solo album next month. Ahead of the album’s release, new single ‘Better With You’ depicts a messy couple on an ill-advised trip to a wedding, and the chaotic energy that ensues; showcasing Stone’s ability to perfectly capture snapshots of the anxiety and disorder of everyday life, it’s a perfectly catchy indie anthem. Here Comes The Actual Band, Charley Stone’s debut album, is set for release on 29th May – keep an eye on bandcamp for its pre-sale this coming Friday (3rd May)! (ML)

BCOS RSNS – ‘Turn It Off’
London’s own trans queer post-punk legends BCOS RSNS will be releasing their self-titled debut album on 22nd May; after years being a key face of the city’s DIY scene, hanging out with all the best bands, front woman Abi has now made her dream of being in one of her own a reality. Showcasing all of BCOS RSNS’ unique wonky charm, latest single ‘Turn It Off’ offers a scuzzy reflection on conspiracy theories and the dire consequences of capitalism. Catch BCOS RSNS live at The Cavendish Arms on 25th May celebrating the album’s release. (ML)

Me Rex – ‘Goodbye Forever’
Total faves Me Rex with their poignant new single ‘Goodbye Forever’. Reflecting on themes of loss and separation, it oozes all the swirling emotion and impassioned cathartic energy that I love so much. I’m such a huge fan of this band, and still think about how wonderful it was having them headline a sold out gig for us last year, and feel very grateful to Phoebe for being a fantastic teacher to me and Kate at the First Timers drum workshop a couple of month’s back – it was so inspiring that I just received some drum sticks for my 38th birthday, and plan on doing a lot more hitting things in future! Needless to say, I can’t wait for the band’s new EP, Smilodon, which is out this Wednesday 1st May. (ML)

MOTHERCANYOUHEARME – ‘Come Round’
The new single from London DIY queer duo MOTHERCANYOUHEARME, ‘Come Round’ reflects on confronting suppressed feelings around sexuality, whilst fizzing with a gloriously woozy musicality. Having first been charmed by the jangly scuzz of their 2020 single ‘Knowing You’, I’m super excited to hear more from Rosie and Georgia with the relatable sentiment and sparkling energy of this new release. (ML)

Wife Patrol – ‘Equinox’
This uplifting single from Indianapolis-based alt-rock trio Wife Patrol is a melodic guitar ode to Spring, and a reminder that change is always on the horizon, even when it may not feel like it at the time. (KC)

Bnny – ‘Something Blue’
Having released their new album, One Million Love Songs, earlier this month, Chicago band Bnny have previously received acclaim from the likes of Rolling Stone and New York Times. Taken from the album, ‘Something Blue’ reflects on the struggle of escaping your past, whilst shimmering with a fuzzy lilting energy and the deep gritty resonance of front person Jessica Viscius’ vocals. (ML)

Our Girl – ‘Relief’
Having fallen completely in love with their 2018 debut, Stranger Today, I am very happy to hear the news that London trio Our Girl are back and releasing their second album later this year on Bella Union. Ahead of the album, new single ‘Relief’ exudes a heartfelt twinkling emotion as scuzzy hooks and the raw emotive splendour of Soph Nathan’s distinctive vocals create a beautifully moving and deeply resonant ode to the queer community. Of the track, Nathan explains: “This is a love song to queer people having a hard time of it. It takes time to unlearn the things we were taught to believe, and to feel wholly proud in the face of people and expectations that are often working against you. This song is about my experience of moving through that, and celebrating how I feel now.” (ML)

Lazy Day – ‘Bright Yellow’
With fans including the likes of Lauren Laverne and Huw Stephens, London based artist Tilly Scantlebury – aka Lazy Day – has now shared a stirring new single to celebrate signing to Brace Yourself Records. Inspired by their studies into Queer American Art for their PhD, ‘Bright Yellow’ oozes a searing emotion as rich vocals ripple alongside a shimmering musicality. Of the meaning behind the track, Scantlebury explains: “At its very best, art can change the way that we see and think and live, acting like a window into another world — which is how I want my music and this song to feel as well.” (ML)

Noga Erez – ‘Vandalist’
GIHE fave Noga Erez is back with ‘Vandalist’, a “musical middle finger” to the hypocrites who have formed incorrect opinions of her, based on false information. The razor-sharp production skills of ROUSSO, Justin Raisen & Erez spotlight her distinctive vocal on the track, as she vents her frustrations with visceral flair. (KC)

Meg Elsier – ‘oldnews’
Lifted from her upcoming debut album, spittake, which is set for release later this year, I love this new track from Nashville-based artist Meg Elsier. Seamlessly blending her clear vocals, potent alt-pop elements and bruising guitar riffs, ‘old news’ is about “the feeling you get when you realize you’ve been telling the same stories over and over to the point that strangers know the punch lines and you’re too scared to risk anything to make new ones.” (KC)

HALIMA – ‘Ways’
Raised between Lagos and London and now based in Brooklyn, HALIMA’s sound is eclectic as the cities she’s resided in. Blending pop, jazz and R&B sensibilities together to create her intoxicating sounds, ‘Ways’ features on her upcoming EP, EXU, which is due on 24th May via Drink Sum Wtr. (KC)

ghost piss – ‘See Ya!!!!!’
A candid, catchy slice of electro-pop from excellently named Portland-based artist ghost piss. This track is lifted from their upcoming album, Dream Girl, which is set for release on 3rd May via Sockhead Records. ‘See Ya!!!!!’ is a potent blend of their bittersweet vocals and playful production, reflecting on their previous unhealthy romantic encounters. (KC)

DEBBY FRIDAY – ‘To The Dancefloor’
Sub Pop signee DEBBY FRIDAY has shared this commanding, genre-blending dance anthem. Accompanied by a SIMS inspired music video, DEBBY’s sultry vocals glide over slick beats and evocative synths on this new offering that will lead you straight to the dancefloor. (KC)

Pride Month Barbie – ‘Effulgent’
This industrial banger from LA-based duo Pride Month Barbie dropped into my inbox and commanded my attention. Formed of solo artists Tyler Holmes and Josephine Shetty, it’s rammed full of chaotic synths and propulsive beats, which the band say are designed to leave you “feeling insecure, horny, and annoyed.” ‘Effulgent’ is lifted the the band’s upcoming debut album, All The Girls In The Room Say ‘Sorry’, which is set for release on 14th June via LA queer/trans label, Get Better Records. (KC)

Venus In Noise – ‘What I Want’
Noise-pop duo Venus In Noise met at a gig in East London in 2019, and formed the band after they went on to see Bikini Kill’s first UK comeback gig a few years later. There’s some strong Le Tigre influences to their buoyant-yet-glitchy sounds, and this single ‘What I Want’ is a perfect example of that. (KC)

Or:la – ‘A Howl’s A Howl’
I love this genre-blending soundscape from Irish producer and DJ Or:la. Inspired by the now-extinct native wolves that used to roam the UK and Ireland, her primal beats and bristling synth textures propel the track forward. ‘A Howl’s A Howl’ is taken from Or:la’s recent EP, Moonlight Crush, out now via fabric’s eponymous label. (KC)

Elsa Hewitt – ‘Legend’
‘Legend’ is the evocative opening track to Chaos Emeralds, the eighth album from electronic artist Elsa Hewitt, which she released earlier this month. The record is the result of an intense few years of personal change and growth for the artist, full of field recordings and poetry extracts, all underscored by her trademark hypnotic synthetic sounds. The album is equal parts euphoric as it is melancholic, and I have found it to be a soothing tonic for my tired ears recently. (KC)

Seraphina Simone – ‘Blue Eyes’
“‘Blue Eyes’ is about being full-throttle chest-deep in a crush,” explains Seraphina Simone. Much like her recent releases, ‘Better Days’ and ‘Liverpool’, Seraphina has crafted another distinctive alt-pop gem that aches with bittersweet longing. I love it when songwriters transform their BIG feelings into blissful pop sounds, and Seraphina is a real pro at doing just that. (KC)

PostLast – ‘Connect 4’
This is the charming debut single from Irish indie-pop duo PostLast, who are formed of Stephen McHale (BARQ) and GIHE fave Julie Hough (HAVVK). Released via VETA Records, ‘Connect 4’ is a playful extrapolation on the joy that comes from making new friends when you’re an adult, and relishing the early days of this connection. (KC)

La Sécurité – ‘Waiting For Kenny’
Coming over to the UK as part of the annual Québec Spring Showcase, Montreal-based art punks La Sécurité will be performing at The Shacklewell Arms in East London on 8th May. Their off-kilter charm will appeal to fans of The B-52s, E.S.G, Le Tigre and Wet Leg, so grab a (free) ticket if you like the sound of ‘Waiting For Kenny’. (KC)

Das Birthday Girl – ‘Whiskey Sour’
Inspired by the sounds of The Cure and Siouxsie and The Banshees, as well as the immersive synths of John Maus and Gary War, Maltese-born, Berlin-based artist Das Birthday Girl creates emotive electro-pop that’s shrouded in melancholy. This track ‘Whiskey Sour’ is taken from her debut album, Soft and Clear, which she composed and co-produced with a Maltese producer, Jimmy Bartolo. (KC)

Birthday Problem ft. Runah – ‘Daylight’
Another excellent collaboration from Birthday Problem here, featuring guest vocalist Runah. Together, Irish multi-instrumentalists and producers Matt Harris and Rocky O’Reilly have created another slow-building, evocative soundscape on ‘Daylight’, aided by Runah’s beguiling vocals. Released via VETA Records, the track is accompanied by a set of visuals which explore the “essence of fleeting existence”. Watch it here. (KC)

Kee Avil – ‘Gelatin’
Another visceral, eerie blend of brittle synth textures, aching vocals and erratic beats from Montréal-based experimental artist and producer Kee Avil here. ‘Gelatin’ is taken from her upcoming second album, Spine, which is set for release on 3rd May via Constellation. The track is accompanied by a haunting set of visuals which you can watch here. (KC)

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PLAYLIST: March 2024

The Get In Her Ears team have put together another eclectic mix of alt pop tunes, alternative & shoegaze anthems, unusual electronic sounds, and indie & folk musings 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.

ARXX – ‘Crying In The Carwash’
The latest single from Brighton duo ARXX, ‘Crying In The Carwash’ is a celebration of when the duo found out they were supporting one of their musical heroes, Muna, and the happy tears that followed. Oozing tonnes of synth-driven anthemic energy and an emotion-strewn uplifting power, it’s impossible to listen to it and not feel all the feels. It may be their poppiest track yet, and that’s no bad thing. We love ARXX so much and so incredibly happy to see them doing so well and living their dreams. They’re off on tour next month supporting American artist Fletcher, and we know that Hanni has recently had a polyp removed from their throat, so we’re wishing them all the best vibes and quick recovery.
(Mari Lane – Co-Founder & Managing Editor)

Tiiva – ‘Tornados’
I love this euphoric anthem from GIHE fave Tiiva. Full of sweeping melodies, jagged synths and soaring vocals, Tiiva explains “‘Tornados’ is about possibility and hope through hedonism and thinking about the different directions you can take. It’s inspired from spiritual ideals of using intuition instead of influence, listening to primal voices and leaning into self trust and belief to keep going when things are difficult or confusing in life.”
(Kate Crudgington – Co-Founder & Features Editor)

Circe – ‘Blue Love’
I am OBSESSED with this song from dark-pop artist and GIHE fave Circe. ‘Blue Love’ is so romantic, so melancholic, so candid, so sultry; it’s a BIG FEELINGS pop anthem. Circe described it as “Karen O produced by The Cure during their Disintegration era” and I wholeheartedly agree. ‘Blue Love’ is all about being love bombed and dealing with fuckboys, swirling in the ashes of disappointment and rising from them in defiance. I can’t get enough of it. (KC)

Pink Milk – ‘You Will Follow Me to Hell’
A gorgeous piece of goth-rock-electronica from Swedish act Pink Milk here. It’s taken from their excellent new album, Night On Earth, which is inspired by dystopian science fiction fantasies and marks a heavier, darker new era in sound for the band. So gloomy, so sultry, I love it. (KC)

Wisp – ‘Enough For You’
I’ve been soaking up the lush shoegaze sounds of 19 year-old San Francisco-based musician Wisp for a little while now. This single is lifted from her upcoming debut EP, Pandora, which is due on 5th April. Inspired by feelings of self-loathing and false perceptions of ones self, ‘Enough For You’ is another mesmerising blend of her hushed vocals, heavy riffs and driving beats. (KC)

Fräulein – ‘Feels Like Flying’ (Day and Night)
Ahead of the release of their debut mini album in June, GIHE faves Fräulein have released a pair of sister singles, the opening and closing tracks of the collection. With the ‘Day’ version of ‘Feels Like Flying’, the duo express all the swirling excitement and fierce emotions that can come with being in love, showcasing their trademark gritty energy and the immense soaring splendour of Joni’s vocals. The ‘Night’ version, on the other hand, offering a more melancholy reflection as twinkling hooks and subdued beats accompany a more delicate side to Joni’s heartfelt lyricism. Fräulein really are one of the most exciting bands on the scene at the moment, and it’s so wonderful to follow their journey as they go from strength to strength; continuing to hone their sound, not afraid to experiment whilst maintaining their distinctive fierce allure, as these two tracks side-by-side perfectly illustrate. Sink Or Swim, the debut mini album from Fräulein, is out on 14th June via Submarine Cat Records. (ML)

Pixie Cut Rhythm Orchestra – ‘Problem Child’
This is the latest sigle from Dublin-based alt-shoegazers Pixie Cut Rhythm Orchestra, released via Anon Records. I’m always so impressed by vocalist & guitarist Sarah Deegan’s observational lyrics and her clear voice, which genuinely took my breath away the first time I heard it live when the band headlined our GIHE gig at The Shacklewell Arms last in October last year. PCRO are currently working on their debut album, which I look forward to hearing in the near future. (KC)

Fresh – ‘Merch Girl’
Ahead of the release of a new EP next month, London indie-pop legends have now shared the title track. Fizzing with all the jangly hooks that we’ve come to know and love from the band, ‘Merch Girl’ reflects on the struggle that women can face to get to where they want to be within the music industry as it builds with a swirling, shimmering energy. Of the track, vocalist Kathryn Woods explains: “It’s a bit tongue-in-cheek, drawing from clichés of the wallflower, the sidekick, but ultimately it’s empowering and a reflection on the ways that we come into our own as women artists.” Merch Girl, the upcoming new EP from Fresh, is out 19th April via Specialist Subject. (ML)

Gouge Away – ‘Spaced Out’
If you want a dose of dynamic, commanding noise led by a knockout lead vocal – look no further than Gouge Away. ‘Spaced Out’ is one of many antagonistic, impressive anthems on their most recent album, Deep Sage, a record which I have been furiously spinning since it was released earlier this month. (KC)

Pageant Mum – ‘All My Life’
An absolute rager from Bolton based teenagers Pageant Mum here! Izzy Ingham’s powerful vocals soar over the band’s frenzied beats and heavy riffs, providing a cathartic rush of angst and a “plea to all of us here together on a divided rock” to unite against apathy. (KC)

The Menstrual Cramps – ‘Class War’
The latest single from some of our favourite punks, Bristol’s The Menstrual Cramps, ‘Class War’ offers a scathing commentary on the current state of British society as seething hooks are blasted out with a raging energy. A fierce, rallying cry, inciting us to join a union and support workers’ rights, it showcases the band’s immense impassioned drive and ferocious spirit. Of the track, front person Emilia comments: “Women’s rights are workers rights. Always support strikers, and never cross a picket line!” Ahead of their set at Manchester Punk Festival this week, this track cements The Menstrual Cramps as one of the most important bands around at the moment; consistently able to create a perfect balance of explosive, cathartic rage, alongside an empowering sense of unity. To celebrate the single’s release, The Menstrual Cramps have collaborated with Courier Brewing Company to bring out their very own pale ale – punk and beer, two of our favourite things! And 50p per pint will be donated to vital charity akt. (ML)

pink suits – ‘Are You Gay Yet?’
Ahead of the release of their new album next month, Margate duo pink suits have shared fierce new single, ‘Are You Gay Yet?’ Reflecting on numerous interactions that Lennie’s had throughout their life when people have questioned or confronted them about their sexuality, it’s a seething celebration of queerness delivered with the raw, fierce energy we’ve come to know and love from the band. Lennie explains: “This song was us wanting to be aggressively confident in being noticeably gay. A reclamation of many moments like this when I wanted to yell, ‘Am I gay yet? Fuck yes!’ To tell everyone that they need to get over this shit already. People are gay. I am gay. We are gay. You might be gay too… and that is ok.” Dystopian Hellscape, the new album from pink suits, is out on 1st April. They’re out on tour at the moment, and will be stopping by at Cro Cro Land at Stanley Arts in Norwood on 13th April – we’ll be there DJing, and can’t wait for the epic line-up of faves including Fraulein, Fightmilk, Dogviolet, Whitelands and lots more. Hopefully see you there! (ML)

BCOS RSNS – ‘(First On At The) Buffalo Bar’
Having always hung out with bands, but only ever fantasised about being in one, London scene queen Abi Brady has now made that dream a reality with new band BCOS RSNS. Ahead of the release of their debut album in May, they’ve now shared the first taste of what to expect. Reflecting on the somewhat depressing reality of the large number of music venues that are closing, and the accompanying existential anxiety, it’s an instant indie earworm. Propelled by uptempo beats, fuzzy hooks jangle throughout as tales of London nightlife are recounted with a wonky charm and subtle wit. BCOS RSNS, the eponymous debut album, is set for release on 22nd May. (ML)

The Baby Seals- ‘ID’d At Aldi’
Another taster from their upcoming new album, the latest single from The Baby Seals reflects on the smug joy that comes with being told that you look younger than you are. Propelled by the their trademark catchy yet gritty energy, and a raging sense of fun, ‘ID’d At Aldi’ once again showcases The Baby Seals’ ability to deliver witty-yet-necessary, gloriously danceable punk anthems. And you should definitely watch the ‘shot on location’, action-packed accompanying video. Chaos, the new album from The Baby Seals, is out on 19th April via Trapped Animal Records, and you can catch Kerry from the band chatting about it on our next show on Soho Radio next Monday 1st April! (ML)

Mammoth Penguins – ‘Everything That I Write’
I’ve had such a soft spot for Cambridgeshire band Mammoth Penguins for years now – their 2019 album, There’s No Fight We Both Can’t Win, is probably one of my most played records, and it was such a joy to have them play for us that year too. Ahead of the release of a new album in May, new single ‘Everything That I Write’ examines the dynamics of trust and intimacy in a long term relationship, whilst flowing with all the lilting scuzzy energy and distinctive raw emotion of Emma Kupa’s vocals that I love so much. Here, the upcoming new album from Mammoth Penguins is set for release on 3rd May via Fika Records. (ML)

Brennan Wedl – ‘Fake Cowboy’
A heartfelt ode to East Nashville’s infamous Honky Tonk, ‘Fake Cowboy’ is the new single from Kill Rock Stars signed artist Brennan Wedl (aka my new favourite singer). Rippling with a glistening raw emotion, it showcases the raw emotion of Wedl’s luscious vocals as Americana-tinged stripped-back strumming builds to a gritty, fuzz-filled anthem, with shades of the legendary Sheryl Crow. I think it’s pretty exquisite and – being quite late to the Brennan Wedl party – I can’t wait to hear more from this awesome artist. You can watch a beautiful live rendition of the track here. (ML)

Grace Petrie – ‘Meanwhile In Texas’
I was lucky enough to catch Grace Petrie live at Islington Assembly Hall earlier this month, and it was a truly wonderful and unifying evening celebrating her fantastic latest album, Build Something Better. The whole album is a really beautiful collection, probably her most politically-charged yet, but delivered with her trademark lilting folk-strewn musicality. This is probably my favourite track; reflecting on the increasing wave of misogynist laws that are putting the lives of women, LGBTQ+ and trans folk in danger, it’s a poignant and necessary listen, inciting us to unite and fight against the forces that seek to oppress us. (ML)

Brides – ‘Eat Dirt’
‘Eat Dirt’ is a swaggering dose of queer Southern Gothic Rock from East London band Brides. Inspired by Gabriel Picolo’s graphic novel, Icarus and the Sun, the track is a gritty reflection on what vocalist Hannie McBride describes as a “love that burns too hot and leaves you in the dust.” It’s a brooding anti-love anthem, full of heavy riffs and permeated by a deep sense of lust and longing. (KC)

Nuha Ruby Ra – ‘Fetish 2 Forget’
We’ve been big fans of East London artist Nuha Ruby Ra for a while now, and I love the glitchy cinematic sound of this new single. Her soaring vocals alongside the the industrial, tension building soundscape ooze shades of something that the legendary Trent Reznor might create, which is always welcome here at GIHE! (ML)

NikNak – ‘You Were Supposed To Be Good’
Leeds-based DJ and producer NikNak blends experimental synths, jazz sounds and jungle beats on this eclectic and infectiously good track, which also features Grifton Forbes-Amos and Cassie Kinoshi. Taken from her upcoming album, Ireti, which is set for release on 21st May via Accidental Records, NikNak will be playing live in April at venues in Plymouth, Manchester, Bristol and Glasgow, all tickets are available online now. (KC)

LUCI – ‘Thunder Calling’
This track from US artist LUCI is taken from her upcoming debut album, They Say They Love You, which is set for release on 19th April via Don’t Sleep. I love LUCI’s clear vocals and eclectic instrumentation here. I tried to catch her live at The Great Escape Festival last year but I missed her show – regretting that now! (KC)

Noé Solange – ‘Rise’
I’m super glad I discovered this track from London-based, Dutch-Indonesian producer Noé Solange in my inbox.’Rise’ is the title track from her recent EP, and it’s a dreamy piece of downtempo electronica, inspired by the processes of nature, healing and self discovery. (KC)

Blonde Maze – ‘Beside You’
Any of our regular followers will be familiar with just how much I love Blonde Maze, and so it should come as no surprise that I’m currently completely addicted to her new single. Another blissful offering, ‘Beside You’ shimmers with hazy electronics and heartfelt vocals, as an immersive twinkling soundscape builds. As with everything else that the New York artist creates, this track just provides a perfect soothing antidote to life’s stresses; a truly euphoric sonic catharsis. (ML)

Hinako Omori – ‘cyanotype memories’ (Joe Goddard Remix)
Loving this Hot Chip remix of ‘cyanotype memories’, originally released by GIHE fave Hinako Omori via Houndstooth Records. Joe Goddard has put a playful spin on Hinako’s more tender, slow-building original piece. Hinako’s most recent album, stillness, softness…, is a real treat for the ears. Soothing, intuitive and graceful electronica – totally worth a listen. (KC)

Elsa Hewitt – ‘Wash The Sea’
Another intricate blend of lo-fi synth loops and vocal improvisations from the wonderful Elsa Hewitt here. ‘Wash The Sea’ is taken from her upcoming eighth album, Chaos Emeralds, which is set for release on 12th April. Chaos Emeralds is the result of an intense few years of personal change and growth for the artist, full of field recordings and poetry extracts, all underscored by her trademark magnetic electronica. (KC)

AVR – ‘Etude No.2’ (Philip Glass Rework)
This is a beautiful re-working of a Phili Glass piece by the incredibly talented multi-instrumentalist and producer AVR. Released via Philip Glass’ own label Orange Mountain Music, AVR’s atmospheric re-imagining is also accompanied by a video that was shot in collaboration with French fashion house Mugler. Sonically and visually, this is a total delight. Watch the video here. (KC)

Zemlya – ‘Ether’
I was so pleased to find this experimental soundscape from Brussels-based duo Zemlya in my inbox. Taken from their self-titled EP, this track ‘Ether’ is one of three extended pieces on the record that are inspired by the sounds and rhythms of their inner bodies and surroundings. It’s a truly haunting, hypnotising and disarming listen. (KC)

Birthday Problem ft. Róisín Nic Ghearailt – ‘An Maighdean Mhara’
This is the second track from Birthday Problem, a collaborative electronica project from Irish multi-instrumentalists and producers Matt Harris and Rocky O’Reilly. “As a proud Gaeilgeoir, it’s extremely important to me to show that gaeilge is for gach duine (everyone)”, explains guest lyricist and vocalist Róisín Nic Ghearailt, former member of post-punk band M(h)aol. Written entirely in Irish, Róisín penned the track when she moved back home, and the result is a sultry, brooding soundscape inspired by the tumultuous, alluring nature of the sea. (KC)

Anenome – ‘Fascinate Me’
This is the second single from Dublin post-folk four piece Anenome, lifted from their upcoming EP, Human Remains, which is set for release later this year. I love their dynamic instrumentation; eerie string sounds, brooding bass lines and yearning vocals combine to tantalise and antagonise the senses. (KC)

Kee Avil – ‘Felt’
‘Felt’ is an un-nerving blend of brittle synth textures, aching vocals, twangy strings and erratic beats from Montréal-based experimental artist and producer Kee Avil. Taken from her upcoming second album, Spine, which is set for release on 3rd May via Constellation, the way in which she expertly fuses gritty and gentle elements into her music always impresses me. (KC)

Kira McSpice – ‘Evaporate’
Taken from her beautifully titled upcoming album, The Compartmentalization of Decay, this track from Kira McSpice is a haunting reflection on trauma. Her new record is a deeply personal exploration of life after sexual assault, which the artist personifies through the natural processes of the maple tree. Her exquisite voice and dynamic string arrangements make for striking and hypnotic listening. (KC)

Mere Child – ‘Storms’
‘Storms’ is the latest single from independent artist Aimee Herbert aka Mere Child. Her soft vocals and shimmering instrumentation blend harmoniously together on ‘Storms’ to create a gentle, atmospheric rumination on emotional resilience. (KC)

Holly Munro – ‘Dead Ends’
This latest single from Irish songwriter Holly Munro is a thoughtful reflection on the way in which we choose our paths in life. Inspired by seeing her physical footprints in the sand after finishing a meditation, ‘Dead Ends’ is an emotive and considered exploration “questioning the choices you make and reflecting on how they shape your future in ways you can’t always predict or control.” (KC)

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