LISTEN: GIHE on Soho Radio with Mykki Blanco (18.09.23)

Tash and Kate were back on Soho Radio’s airwaves playing loads of new music from some of their favourite female, non-binary and LGBTQIA+ artists! Mari offered some of her “musical musings” too. Artists featured on the eclectic playlist included Tirzah, Coolgirl, Maria Uzor, O Hell, CLT DRP, Divorce, English Teacher, Brenda and Touch Excellent.

Tash also caught up with queer pioneer and innovative artist Mykki Blanco to talk about their upcoming EP, Postcards From Italia, which is set for release via Transgressive Records on 22nd September. Fresh from celebrating Copenhagen Pride, Mykki spoke to Tash about the context of their new record, how the music industry has changed over the last decade, their queer inspirations and more.

Listen back to the show below:

 

We’ll be back on Soho Radio this Thursday 21st September, LIVE in the studio covering the Morning Glory show from 9am-12pm. Make sure you tune in via www.sohoradiolondon.com

Tracklist
Sinead O’Connor – Mandinka
Tirzah – F22
Maria Uzor – Sometimes They Look At You
O Hell – hard times
Coolgirl – High Altar
CLT DRP – I See My Body Through You
Say She She – Astral Plane
Brenda – Microscopic Babe
shaene – june
Whitelands – The Prophet and I
English Teacher – The World’s Biggest Paving Slab
Separatr – Deadstock
Divorce – Scratch Your Metal
Maria BC – Amber
Ideal Host – The Resolution
NESS NÖST – MAID 4 U
Gabriella Cohen – Clever Cheese
Mykki Blanco – Holidays in the Sun
**Interview with Mykki Blanco**
ZHU, Devault – Take My Soul
Touch Excellent – Couch Song
Becca Mancari – Over and Over
Louisa Rowley – Love Me For All of My Flaws
Yeah Yeah Yeahs – Maps

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INTERVIEW: Mykki Blanco

Mykki Blanco really doesn’t need any introduction from us. We’ve been massive fans of the queer pioneer and innovative artist for many years now; they’ve been a huge inspiration to the team and have dazzled us with their live performance more than once. So, we’re super excited that they’ll be releasing a brand new EP later this month. 

Postcards From Italia is set for release on 22nd September, and offers an instantly uplifting collection of colourful, danceable anthems. Fusing together influences ranging from Euro dance beats to Country hooks, we can’t get enough of the funk-fuelled energy and effervescent spirit that runs throughout. 

Fresh from celebrating Copenhagen Pride, Mykki spoke to our Tash Walker last month about the upcoming EP, how the music industry’s changed over the last decade, their queer inspirations and more. Have a read, and make sure you tune into our next show on Soho Radio on Monday 18th September to hear some of the chat there! 

We’re massive fans of you, and it’s an honour to have you speaking to us today! We obviously have quite a few questions for you, but we’d love to focus on your upcoming new record Postcards From Italia, which feels quite different from your previous albums. So, how are you feeling about its release?

So, Postcards From Italia is an EP – it’s only 15 minutes long! But sonically, it really continues the musical journey that started with releasing Broken Hearts & Beauty Sleep in 2021, and then Stay Close To Music, which was a very, very contemplative, very melodic record, in 2022. Most of the songs for Postcards From Italia, even though they’re upbeat, were actually recorded in that same kind of time period as those other two records, so it just really continues a very stark departure into kind of what my music sounds like now, and not what my music has sounded like for roughly the last ten years. I think if a musicologist were to note any markers on my sonic journey, there’d basically be the beginning of my career up until the pandemic, and then the pandemic kind of marks a very stark difference in not only the quality of my music, but just the sonic journey. And I just think that, for me, everything that I’ve come out with since 2020, has, has been like “this is my sound” – this is the music that I make, and less and less of kind of an ever winding journey. I don’t know. I mean, I guess there’’ll always be an element of a journey. But yeah, I think what I’m now creating reflects more how I really feel.

You’ve described this as your “Italian Cowboy Era” – can you explain?

I didn’t say that actually. I think someone from Pitchfork or one of the first music journalists that got the new press release kind of put their own spin on it after listening to some songs, and they said that, and then the record label said that and now people are saying that… Which I guess I’m okay with!

I think the label of “Italian Cowboy Era” maybe came from the lead single ‘Holidays In The Sun’ – the way in which my tone and cadence, and the way in which I delivered the lyrics, is a reference to country music – country music like over Euro dance production… And there are two other songs where I give a similar country western vibe, like ‘Magic On My Back’…  Wow, I get it, that’s why they probably said that! 

You got it. You reclaim it! 

I just reclaimed it. Not joking. I had not thought about that.

You’ve mentioned it already, but ‘Holidays In The Sun’,  the current single, is such a tune. I love the ‘90s dance vibe. The first time I heard it, I think in just the first ten seconds my head and my shoulders were moving away – it’s so infectious. And then magical. And ‘Magic On My Back’ was another one – it’s so sexy. It’s got this really sexy groove to it.

Thank you! I just wanted to release something upbeat – something really fun. So, I’m actually about to start grad school. I’m moving to Switzerland to do an MFA in Fine Art, because I want to focus on Environmental Humanities in painting. I’m really interested in ecology, but kind of like post colonial ecology. So, like ecological studies through Africa and Asia and South America, rather than through a Eurocentric lens – like environmental chronology. The programme is almost two years long, so I wanted to put out something fun before I start school, because once I start, I’ll have to have my head down to study! 

https://youtube.com/watch?v=EK7q_HQQ8XQ%3Fsi%3D0HHHYxAF45psdV4z

I also read that you didn’t start writing until you were 25. So, it’s interesting now that you’re going into this other phase of going to grad school and looking into art and ecology. Why is that do you think? Was it a conscious decision to start writing at 25? Or was it just the right moment, just something that you were you were drawn to?

It was really my first manager that pushed me into music. As a child, I lived in two places – I lived in the Bay Area outside of San Francisco, and I also lived in North Carolina. And I was just always naturally very drawn to theatre; I loved performing in front of people, and I also loved creative writing. Then, as a teenager, that manifested into me doing more theatre and I found out about performance art. But then I went to art college – well, I went to two different art colleges and dropped out of both, but still very much thought that the trajectory of my adult life would be centred in the art world. I thought I’d figure out some way of working as a contemporary artist and writer, but I never saw myself as a person who would go on to do journalistic writing. But, about ten years ago, I published a book of poetry, and one of the things I am really invested in doing this year, in grad school, is beginning to actually really write either a novel or (very) short story. But, back to your question! I thought I was very much going to have this trajectory as a contemporary artist in the traditional sense, and it was not until I met someone named Charles Damga, who owned a record label called UNO Records in New York, that I started to think more about writing. Basically, Charlie came to a few of my performances – I was doing these performances at different parties, and I was starting to release things online and, I guess for that time, it felt very original, on the cusp of something that people had not seen before. And I just remember, Charlie and I had this conversation where he said something along the lines of “I feel like you’re making music and you don’t know that you’re making music”, but I was still very much in this art world context about everything. And he asked me if I enjoyed songwriting, and if I’d ever considered working with producers, and I was like “I don’t know what a producer is…” So, he suggested giving it a try and pairing me with someone, and I was like “Sure”, and he linked me up with about four different producers and I started to understand that I can communicate certain ideas and together we could translate the production into a song. I didn’t really know what I was doing, I was just enjoying myself, but then over a couple of years I realised that, though I didn’t know how to produce in a traditional sense, I always know sonically the cornucopia of songs or influences that I want. And it was really this exercise in, not only growing in confidence with myself, but as a songwriter, that helped me understand that I could do it, even though I’m not ‘classically trained’ in composition or anything. It was also the community of producers in the community and other musicians that helped me reocognise that I had a talent for something, even though it was undefined. 

Looking back at your career, it’s been amazing! You’ve worked with some really incredible artists, but you’ve also clearly worked really hard to get where you are today, doing lots and lots of touring. How does it feel to you looking back over the years, to where you are today?

One thing I would say is that I’m very fortunate to have come along at the time that I did, because I don’t think I would enjoy the politics of being a brand new artist right now. I feel that with every generation that crops up every five or so years, there’s some select artists who really push the envelope sonically, through their imagery and aesthetics through their message. The universe seems to equip them in ways to persevere beyond whatever challenges the music industry, or society in general, might be placing on them. But I think there are a set of challenges right now for new artists which mean it’s just become harder; I would say it’s become harder for new artist to really make a living and to have a real quality of life. Even though I’ve experienced so much transphobia and homophobia, and had certain media outlets be so rude and inhumane to me at certain parts of my career, I think at that time many paradigms around being queer and being trans were being completely blown open. I was able to explore, or maybe come to terms with, my gender, maybe a path was widening that did not exist before. A true spiritual experience. 

I feel that, unless you were a musician during the last ten years involved in a certain kind of underground culture, maybe you wouldn’t understand this… But, from around 2012 to 2020, something happened where, because of the internet – things like Tumblr and Twitter, and the whole nature of social media – it really transformed and changed communities all over the world. People were able to say “Hey, listen to this indie / feminist / punk band / queer rapper”, and people were able to hear their music on the internet and book them. This created a network globally, where historically artists that would have really dwelled in the underground were able to have agency; to actually make money, to actually look forward. And that’s really important, and I don’t hear people talk about that enough. Sadly, with the pandemic, a lot of that has been diminished; and the effects of that are not completely over. There has been such a reduction in independent venues; a reduction in bookers and people who are willing to book independent underground acts. The network globally is still there, in a sense, but it has diminished. I really see now, again, the dominance of pop stars in a way that I saw it ten years ago, because pop stars are always going to be there. But in the last nine years, it seemed like music listeners were getting more invested in indie underground artists. And ok, your pop fans are always going to be your pop fans, but I’m seeing this dominance again of major label artists. And that kind of scares me, because it feels like we’ve gone back in time, and it’s such a shame because it felt like things were starting to really shift for artists at certain tiers that were not a part of the major label system. 

https://youtube.com/watch?v=y6DgawQdSlQ%3Fsi%3DU2n_oKAMo1PwfAfy

This comes back a bit to what you were saying about what you were experiencing within the industry – I remember I think maybe it was around, 2016, I saw the video of your days reciting the Zoe Leonard poem, ‘I Want A Dyke For President’, and it was just so perfect. It felt so powerful and apt to bring those words to life at that period of time. You’re an artist who is always pushing for people to see the world differently, I think. And I think sometimes I also think that when you’re queer, and you’re born into a world where you don’t make sense, you sort of have to break it down and build it back up in a way that you can then insert yourself into it. Which allows us, or some queer people, a chance to see the world so differently, and to think differently. And I’m really glad to have had that experience. But I wanted to ask you, who helped you to see your future when you were growing up?

Yeah, I feel like – even though it’s well intentioned – there is a very neoliberal need to commodify and kind of glamourise queerness. But I get it, because then it becomes or can lead to the celebrated education of queerness. But it sort of is like we’re only seeing the pretty people… When I look on Instagram, and I look on Twitter, I love seeing a trans male activist with 850,000 followers, and I love seeing all the trans women who are gaining accolades and I love it when I’m able to connect with other gender-nonconforming queer people who now have large platforms. But it’s still this thing where a lot of the people that shaped me are what you might consider ‘outlaw’ queer people; people that don’t necessarily live in the big cities, that may have existed through sex work, or through anarchist or more community networks. They are just being naturally gender nonconforming, and so much of society – even mainstream LGBTQ society – might find them unruly, or even unattractive. But it’s these people, my friends from these communities, that I would say have really nurtured the radical ideas that formed the foundation of my true virtues. 

When I think about specific people that you might know, there’s Brontez Purnell who I’ve known since I was 18. And I think Alli Logout from Special Interest is someone whose politics are on the money and I feel like whenever I’ve encountered them, they’re always giving me this nice, fresh perspective on something. Then there’s Ericka Hart, who I would consider an activist; she talks a lot about intersectionality, and her partner is trans. They just had a baby and so she talks a lot about this intersection of being black in America, and queerness.

 And, finally, I’d like to name one more – Munroe Bergdorf. I’ve known Munroe for a long time and she inspires and interests me. I’ve really followed her journey closely, and she does feel to me like an infiltrator, because she is able to slip into the mainstream, glamorous radar, but she knows her shit and she knows the real deal. No matter how glamorous she is, and no matter how many talk shows she goes on, I never hear her giving a palatable answer just for the sake of making the mainstream feel comfortable or better about themselves. 

Yeah, I met her about 10 years ago when she DJ-ed for this charity and LGBT helpline charity that I volunteer for, and it was just before she started to, like jump onto the platform that she’s on now. It’s been amazing to watch her, and she’s never faltered in her her views or her purpose – she is she knows who she is, and she knows what she’s going for. 

Okay, I’m conscious that I don’t want to keep you for longer than you have to! So, lastly, I see you’ve hit up a couple of dates across a number of European festivals over the last couple of months, and we’ve all seen you a bunch of times in London, at Southbank Centre and Village Underground when you played there, which was outstanding! We were left absolutely buzzing, like properly fizzing under our skin! So, has there been a particular event you’ve played that’s stood out to you over the years? 

It’s so difficult to answer this question because it’s been almost 11 years of so many different kinds of gigs… But I would say that, honestly, I can be in any room; it doesn’t have to be 1000 people, it could be just 400 or 500 people who are really engaged and watching me, singing the words back. I’ve had that big festival experience, and maybe one or twice in my career when that huge big room didn’t feel any less powerful than a smaller one. But when 400 or 500 people are just completely engaged in what you’re doing – sweating and pouring our hearts out into each other – it feels very special. I like to create a moment sonically and aesthetically, and when it all comes together cohesively, and people are engaged with what I’m doing, that feels good. Because I’ve been doing this long enough to know – I mean what is a career, but a string of continuous moments? 

Totally. I feel like that about archiving as well.  The lack of archives there have been past a certain point, and censorship and all of that sort of stuff. And so, you doing these things on an ongoing basis as an artist is so important. 

Thanks so much for taking the time to chat with me, Mykki. And, best of luck with the record!

Okay, thank you so much for having me. And big love to all of you out there!

Hugest thanks to Mykki for taking the time to chat to us! Their upcoming new EP, Postcards From Italia, is out 22nd September via Transgressive.

Photo Credit: Cecilia Chiaramonte

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PLAYLIST: August 2023

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

Human Interest – ‘Step On’
Following the success of previous singles ‘Mixing Paint’ and ‘Cool Cats’, and with recent acclaim from the likes of Steve LaMacq on BBC 6Music, East-London band Human Interest have now announced the release of an upcoming EP later this year. Combining a fierce post-punk drive with a fuzzy, lilting energy, lead single ‘Step On’ reflects on “appreciating the duality of yourself and your friends” and builds with an anthemic power to a swirling slice of infectious indie-pop. ‘Step On’ is out now via Nice Swan records.
(Mari Lane)

CLT DRP – ‘I See My Body Through You’
Following on from their incendiary anthems ‘New Boy‘ and ‘Nothing Clever, Just Feelings‘, this is the latest banger from Brighton feminist electro-punks CLT DRP. Taken from their upcoming second album, Nothing Clever, Just Feelings, which is set for release on 8th September via Venn Records, the track is a dynamic, corrosive rumination on objectification and how it can affect our own identity and self worth. By combining quieter verses with a blistering chorus, CLT DRP reflect the tumultuous emotions and lack of control that can come from feeling exposed and viewed through a skewed and restricting lens.
(Kate Crudgington)

Chroma – ‘Don’t Wanna Go Out’
Having just announced the release of their debut album, and with news of an exciting support slot with (my most watched band in the world) Foo Fighters next year, Welsh band Chroma are definite ones to watch right now, and so we couldn’t be more thrilled that they’ll be headlining our night at Shacklewell Arms next Friday! (8th September). To celebrate the news, they’ve shared ‘Don’t Wanna Go Out’, a fierce new single reflecting on feelings of FOMO and propelled by the band’s distinctive raw, relentless energy. An instant earworm that I can’t wait for East London to mosh along to very soon! Ask For Angela, the debut album from Chroma, is set for release on 20th October via Alcopop! Records. Nab tickets to see them live on 8th September along with wormboys and UrgentSea here. (ML)

Duvet – ‘Girlcow’
‘Girlcow’ is the latest single from Manchester post punks Duvet, who are gearing up to to release their split 7″ ‘Girlcow/Sweaty Dog’ on 29th September via Fear of Missing Out Records. I love their sleazy, chaotic sound on this track, which the band say is “a bit of fictional story telling about a confident cowboy pursuing a play girl bunny type character,” explored from both perspectives. (KC)

Gender Chores – ‘Dysphurious’
A reflection on coming out as non-binary – a subject that’s very close to Northern Irish punks Gender Chores’ hearts – ‘Dysphurious’ offers a truly uplifting dose of punk-pop, oozing a fierce colourful spirit. Filled with scuzzy hooks and a refreshingly honest lyricism, it’s an empowering ode to freeing yourself from the constrictions of conventional gender ‘norms’; an energising boost of confidence to be your true self in the face of adversity. (ML)

Femegades – ‘Depleted’
Following their debut EP Pornsick and last year’s ironically entitled Not All Men, punk-rockers Femegades are back with a gloriously riotous new single. Reflecting on society’s expectation on women to be – and want to be – perfect, happy mothers, ‘Depleted’ rages with a snarling energy and fierce, raw power. (ML)

ALT BLK ERA – ‘Misfits: SOLAR’
Combining jagged electronics and racing beats with their raging lyrics, genre-defying sister duo ALT BLK ERA have created another alternative statement of self autonomy on ‘Misfits: SOLAR’. Taken from their upcoming EP, Freak Show, which is set for release on 1st September, the track is a frenzied anthem fuelled by their antagonistic, youthful spirit. (KC)

The Dead Zoo – ‘Hoover Damned’
Having recently wowed us live at our last gig at Shacklewell Arms in July, London-based The Dead Zoo have now shared an uplifting new single. Propelled by a scuzzy energy reminiscent of brit-pop bands of the ‘90s, ‘Hoover Damned’ oozes catchy hooks and swirling harmonies, accompanying the sultry allure of front woman Kaoru’s gritty vocals. Of the track, Kaoru explains: “I wanted to write about a world where women are as free to make mistakes and walk away as men traditionally have…” Produced by James Aparicio, ‘Hoover Damned’ is out now via Rock Noir Recordings. Watch the new video here. (ML)

Deerhoof – ‘My Lovely Cat!’
Following the release of their 19th album earlier this year, I was lucky enough to experience the utter magic of legendary avant-garde sound creators Deerhoof last week. And when I say ‘magic’, I’m not exaggerating… The pure immense cacophonies they’re able to create are a spectacle to behold; their frenzied colourful energy like nothing I’ve ever seen. ‘My Lovely Cat!’ is probably my favourite track taken from the latest album (which is sung entirely in Satomi’s native Japanese), not only because of its cute, relatable title, but I just love its swirling sonic brilliance and joyous drive. Miracle Level, the latest album from Deerhoof, is out now via Joyful Noise. (ML)

HAVVK – ‘Expiry’
The new single from Irish based trio, and GIHE faves, HAVVK, ‘Expiry’ channels a seething raging energy, ‘Expiry’ reflects on society’s expectations of women to ‘age gracefully’, whilst giving a middle finger to these restrictions on how you should dress or behave. I just love how its fierce sense of urgency is propelled by the raw power of lead singer Julie’s distinctive celestial vocals. (ML)

Shaene – ‘june’
This melancholy song from Leeds-based songwriter shaene is lifted from her self-produced debut album, time lost / time regained, which is set for release on 1st September. The track is a reflection on her fluctuating relationship with their Dad, which she is reminded of on Father’s Day each year during June. As with her previous single ‘sad’, shaene filters these conflicting feelings through a soft, shoegazey lens, which makes for sad-yet-sweet listening. (KC)

GENN – ‘Calypso’
GIHE favourites GENN are gearing up to release their debut album, unum, on the 6th October, and this track ‘Calypso’ is lifted from it. The track showcases the truly versatile sound of the Brighton-via-Malta art-punk quartet, who totally blew us away with their live performances at The Great Escape Festival earlier this year. (KC)

Ideal Host – ‘The Resolution’
A tender, synth-led rumination that showcases the evolving nature of their sound, this is the third single from Ideal Host. Led by Heather Perkins and Sean Hughes – who are both former members of the band Slowcoaches – Ideal Host are dedicated to making music on their own terms. ‘The Resolution’ acts as a bookend to the band’s previous single ‘The Conflict‘, exploring the softer side of their brooding, intuitive songwriting. Ideal Host are currently writing and recording their full length album, which they plan to release and tour next year. (KC)

O Hell – ‘hard times’
The chorus to this O Hell track hit me right in sternum. Her direct lyrics, clear vocals and evocative electronics make for captivating listening. Speaking about ‘hard times’, O Hell explains: “What I wanted to say in the chorus is: get back to what love really is, ‘cus it’s way bigger and better than the bullshit possessiveness we’re told it needs to centre around. It might change state, it might morph between romantic and platonic, or everything in between – but fuck all the drama off, if you love someone, let that love take its course. It was always bigger than the first label you smacked on it anyway.” (KC)

Hinako Omori – ‘cyanotype memories’
A mood-lifting soundscape that offers listeners a moment of respite in an uncertain world, I love this single from London-based artist and composer Hinako Omori. Taken from her upcoming album, stillness, softness…, which is set for release via Houndstooth on 27th October, the track is an ode to surrendering yourself to the unknown and finding peace within that process. (KC)

Mint Field – ‘El Suspiro Cambia Todo’
Having just announced the release of their upcoming new album, Mexican psych duo Mint Field have now shared a dreamy new single. Flowing with a whirring, hypnotic grace, ‘El Suspiro Cambia Todo’ (The Sigh Changes Everything) offers a spellbinding soundscape, enchanting the ears with its glistening splendour. Of the track, the band explain: “Sighing is the desire for melancholy. It denotes that something is happening. Sometimes we just need to sigh to let go. Sighing is something we do unconsciously but it says a lot about what is going on inside our mind.” Aprender a Ser, the upcoming new album from Mint Field, is set for release on 27th October via felte. (ML)

Amaroun – ‘Dopamine’
Taken from her upcoming EP of the same name, which is set for release on 29th September, ‘Dopamine’ is the latest single from ‘GIHE favourite Amaroun. Inspired by “the minuscule euphoric moments that keep her ADHD brain hooked throughout the day,” this track oozes with Amroun’s trademark alt-pop style. (KC)

CHIKA ft. Charlie Wilson – ‘Can’t Explain It’
I’m a bit late to the party, but recently loved watching ‘Ladies First’, a short (not long enough!) docu-series on Netflix about and by women in hip-hop. As well as featuring a number of artists I already know and love – such as the legendary Queen Latifah and contemporary rappers Rapsody and Tierrra Whack – it also introduced me to a few that I’d not come across before. One of these was Alabama-born MC/rapper CHIKA, who spoke at length about her position as a queer woman in the industry. I just love her driving energy, gritty allure and refreshingly honest lyricism, and urge you to check out this celebration of queer black love, as well as her epic recent album Samson. (ML)

Mykki Blanco – ‘Holidays In The Sun’
I can’t get enough of the funk-fuelled energy and infectious uplifting spirit of the new single from pioneering artist Mykki Blanco. “A feel good summer anthem about lazy summer days swimming in the sea, hopping from one music festival to the next, feeling good about life and living la dolce vita soaking up the sun.”, its only negative is that it does make me quite desperate for a holiday in the sun myself… Mykki Blanco’s upcoming new album, Postcards from Italia, is set for release on 22nd September via Transgressive, and keep your eyes peeled for an exclusive interview with them on our website very soon! (ML)

Aderyn – ‘Distraction’
Reflecting on the restlessness one can feel during the summer break, ‘Distraction’ is the latest single from South Wales artist Aderyn. Propelled by shimmering hooks and a driving punk-pop energy, it showcases Aderyn’s honey-sweet vocals and ability to create instantly catchy, emotion-rich singalong anthems. Aderyn’s debut EP, Sea Glass, is set for release on 14th September. (ML)

Catherine Moan – ‘Jawbreaker’
Angel Jefferson aka Catherine Moan is back with this new single which marks a “new era” of her electro-pop project. ‘Jawbreaker’ is written from the point of view of “someone who feels replaceable, hard to love, and ultimately feels damaged by another’s actions” – all underscored by buoyant 80s-inspired synths and Catherine’s bittersweet vocal. (KC)

SOFT LAD – ‘The Human Condition’
“This song came as a result of the worst hangover of my life!” explains Sophie Galpin aka SOFT LAD about this single – respect to her for telling it like it is! The multi-instrumentalist, who also plays in Self Esteem’s band, encourages her listeners to treat those closest to us with kindness; all underscored by her buoyant beats, melodic riffs and clear vocals. (KC)

Cutty – ‘Overdrive’
This is the latest single from Hull-based duo Cutty, who formed after meeting at their local dive bar. Amy and Kev explain that ‘Overdrive’ is a crowd-pleasing favourite when they play it live at local gigs, so it made sense to record it and share it for everyone else to hear too. (KC)

Sirene – ‘Don’t Let Me Fall (Out Your Mind)’
With acclaim from the likes of Deb Grant on BBC 6Music, Yorkshire-born, London-based artist Sirene released her debut album last year, and has now shared a poignant new single. Reflecting on the desire to consistently do your best for the ones you love, ‘Don’t Let Me Fall (Out Your Mind)’ is a beautifully stirring ballad, showcasing Sirene’s distinctive rich vocals and an exquisite twinkling emotion. (ML)

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PLAYLIST: Pride 2021

As many of our regular readers will know, at Get In Her Ears we strive to support LGBTQIA+ artists all year round via our website, radio show and our live music nights. This Pride Month, we continue to celebrate and share the work of these artists, and take some time to reflect on the history & impact of LGBTQIA+ artists in music and in wider creative spheres too.

Our co-founder Tash Walker, who is also the Co-Chair of the charity Switchboard LGBT+ Helpline & co-producer of the award-winning The Log Books podcast, wrote this powerful intro to our Pride Playlist last year. We’re sharing her words again to let our LGBTQIA+ readers and allies know: we see you, we support you and we love you – this month, and every month. If you need support during Pride Month or at any time, you can always reach out to Switchboard LGBT+ via their website or by calling 0330 330 0630.

Tash: “It’s more important than ever to remember why Pride started. Remember the lengths the LGBTQIA+ communities have come, but more importantly, how far we still have to go. The LGBTQIA+ communities and their allies need to stand strong and united with each other, but especially the black and transgender and gender non-conforming communities.

Covid-19 and its multiple lockdowns have had an unimaginable impact on all of us, especially folks from marginalised communities – magnifying any existing situation people may be in from domestic violence to transphobia, biphobia, homophobia but especially loneliness and isolation. Something members of the LGBTQIA+ communities have been battling heavily against for a while now.

What Pride means to everyone within the LGBTQIA+ communities will be different, but as a queer person I stand and I protest for every single one of those people’s rights. For LGBTQIA+ rights, for anti-racism, for black people, for people of colour, for transgender and gender non-conforming people and every intersectionality in-between. We have to learn from our history and we have to work together where we support the human rights of each and every one of us. People should be free to live without fear of judgement or discrimination. People should not have to fear for their lives because of their sexuality, gender identity, race, socio-economic class, disability or religion.

If your pride flag doesn’t include black and brown stripes, it’s outdated. If your pride flag doesn’t include the transgender flag, it’s outdated. So wherever you are, at whatever Pride you are supporting, spread the word and make it known – equality is for everyone, but most importantly, black lives matter, trans lives matter, black trans lives matter.”

Read about our track choices for our Pride 2021 playlist below and scroll down to the end of the post to listen to it on Spotify.

Ma Rainey – ‘Prove It On Me Blues’
This 1928 song by Ma Rainey, who is unarguably the mother of blues, is possibly one of the first references to queer lesbian culture. Ma Rainey, a queer woman sings, “Went out last night with a crowd of my friends. They must’ve been women, ’cause I don’t like no men.” An essential to any LGBT+ playlist. (Tash Walker)

Jackie Shane – ‘Any Other Way’
We’ve played Canadian soul-singer Jackie Shane multiple times on our GIHE radio show, included her on many a playlist and we’re certainly not stopping now. Jackie was a pioneer for transgender rights in the 60s & 70s, a time when being your true self was not always welcomed, or accepted. (TW)

Big Freedia – ‘Judas’ (Lady Gaga Cover)
I’m absolutely loving Big Freedia’s cover of Lady Gaga’s ‘Judas’ which features on Gaga’s Born This Way Reimagined album, celebrating the 10th anniversary of her second record. Gaga has also enlisted the help of Kylie Minogue and Orville Peck to embellish her evergreen sentiments about self love, having the freedom to love anyone you want and to express that love however you want to. (Kate Crudgington)

Lido Pimienta – ‘Declare Independence’ (Björk Cover)
This is such a beautiful cover by Colombian-Canadian artist Lido Pimienta, released as part of Spotify’s Pride campaign. I was lucky enough to interview her last year about her amazing album Miss Colombia, and on this new offering her defiant spirit and powerful voice shine through just as brightly. Pimienta released this track as a statement of solidarity with the LGBTQ+ communities, and also for Colombian and Palestinian people struggling for freedom and dignity in their homelands. (KC)

Catherine Moan – ‘Fools’ (Depeche Mode Cover)
This is a fun, polished cover of a Depeche Mode b-side from Philadelphia-based electro-pop artist Catherine Moan. Her buoyant electronics and infectious rhythms give this slice of 80s alternative music nostalgia a welcome sultry twist. (KC)

Robyn – ‘Dancing On My Own’
Robyn is an outspoken ally for LGBTQ+ rights. I think it’s important to recognise the role that allies play within LGBTQ+ history and the movement’s continued fight for equality. Being an ally is about educating yourself, it’s about listening, being visible, challenging inequality and helping to educate others. Being an ally isn’t just about LGBTQ+, it applies to any under-represented, marginalised section of society worldwide. As Stonewall says “If we want to live in a world where people are accepted without exception, we all need to be part of the solution.” (TW)

Hercules & Love Affair – ‘Blind’
Taken from their self-titled album released in 2008, the same year I attended London Pride for the first time, this is without a doubt the theme tune to me fully embracing my sexuality, feeling proud of who I was and strong enough to come out happily in all aspects of my life. (TW)

SOPHIE – ‘Immaterial’
This track is taken from SOPHIE’s debut album and I love it. A pioneer of experimental music, often the producer behind so many other amazing tracks, remixes and artists. Described as disorientating latex pop which I think sums up my first experience of seeing SOPHIE live – intense at its best. (TW)

Mykki Blanco – ‘Free Ride’
This is a song from an artist who I feel needs no introduction, a queer pioneer who is doing amazing things for LGBTQ+ rights as well as being open about their positive HIV status. Mykki Blanco is also such an incredible artist and their music is just oh so gooooood. (TW)

Desire Marea – ‘Tavern Kween’
This amazing track by Durban, South Africa-based artist Desire Marea was inspired by Desire’s aunts who went against social norms to find their own forms of freedom in the usually male-occupied taverns in their hometown of Amandawe. Desire explains: “It’s an ode to them, an ode for defiance and feminine manifestations everywhere, an ode to people who come alive at night, to people who enjoy being free and also an ode to people who are fierce about claiming their freedom.” The accompanying video is also sublime. (KC)

Witch Prophet – ‘Makda’
I have Tash to thank for introducing me to the majestic sounds of Ethio queer hip-hop fusion artist Witch Prophet. ‘Makda’ is a celebration of the Ethiopian Queen of Sheba and, as Witch Prophet explains, “the power of Black women and mothers” which she highlights in the track’s beautiful accompanying video. (KC)

Planningtorock – ‘Non Binary Femme’
This track is take from one of my favourite albums of all time, Planningtorock’s Powerhouse. Unarguably paving the way for not only a better understanding of what those words mean, but also leading in acceptance for transgender and gender non-conforming people, Planningtorock and their music has unquestionably helped me on my own gender identity journey and I’m sure many others. (TW)

Ragdoll, Husk – ‘Throwback’
A collaboration between trans, non-binary artist and GIHE fave Husk and non-binary drag queen Ragdoll, ‘Throwback’ offers a wittily nostalgic dance anthem, sparking many fond memories for us millennials. A massively uplifting, fun-filled banger, complete with Husk’s smooth, soulful vocals and a wonderfully infectious groove, it’s a perfect accompaniment to any Pride party. (Mari Lane)

Crisp&Classy X Rookes – ‘Basic’
Electro-pop duo CRISP&CLASSY (aka producer Kat Knix and singer-songwriter Plushy) pride themselves on bringing sexual liberation and self-acceptance to the UK pop scene. Collaborating with GIHE fave, London-based artist and promoter of queer female identity, Rookes, ‘Basic’ is a vibrant, uplifting dance-floor anthem. Blasting into the ears with an explosive fizzing energy, it’s an effervescent ode to being yourself and silencing anyone who chooses to get in your way. (ML)

ARXX – ‘DEEP’
The latest single from GIHE faves Brighton duo ARXX, ‘DEEP’ is an empowering ode to leaving behind all your anxieties and getting what you want. Interweaving a more electro-infused, glitchy sound than previous releases with their signature ferocious grunge-fuelled drive, it instantly hits you with its raw, anthemic rush and gritty, sensual prowess. ARXX have now also released a number of remixes of ‘DEEP’ – including one by Dream Wife’s Alice Go. (ML)

Ci Majr – ‘Ultraviolet’
Non-binary Atlanta artist Ci Majr creates uplifting, emotion-filled pop anthems with a twinkling sensitivity. Taken from their latest EP Side Effects, ‘Ultraviolet’ sparkles with a heartfelt sense of hope alongside a scintillating energy and instantly catchy, shimmering hooks. (ML)

Alex Loveless – ‘Meet Me Tonight’
There’s something about Hackney-based DIY electronic artist Alex Loveless’ music that’s just effortlessly chill. ‘Meet Me Tonight’ is their latest single, but I would also recommend checking out their recent EP, Phone Keys Wallet too. (KC)

Amaroun – ‘Perish’
Amaroun talks about the themes she evokes in her music which consistently touch on her journey of being a black queer woman, overcoming struggles with sexuality and the importance of emotional honesty in music. In Amaroun’s words, “this track is an autobiographical reintroduction of myself”. It’s one of my faves. (TW)

BISHI – ‘Who Has Seen the Wind’
As part of Southbank Centre’s 2019 Meltdown Festival, Kate and I had the privilege of meeting Bishi. She’s an incredibly talented singer, electronic rock-sitarist, producer and performer born in London of Bengali heritage. She is also the co-founder of WITCiH: The Women in Technology Creative Industries Hub, a platform elevating Women & Non-Binary in tech through commissions, performances & panels. (TW)

STRAIGHT GIRL – ‘Limón’
Describing themselves as “fiercely and fearlessly queer,” Leeds-based electronic artist STRAIGHT GIRL is a master at exorcising their demons and developing them into their own brand of “grave rave” sounds. I love this track ‘Limón’ which is a vibrant, jagged soundscape inspired by disjointed and self-critical thoughts. (KC)

Gordian Stimm – ‘Though My Love Is Always Still’
I am such a huge fan of everything Gordian Stimm aka Maeve Westall of itoldyouiwouldeatyou releases. They’ve crafted so many experimental gems in the last year, from their debut album Your Body In On Itself, to this single for Amateur Pop Inc.’s compilation record, their offerings are intensely eclectic & so well produced. (KC)

Twin Pixie – ‘Firestarter’
Philadelphia-based hyper-pop duo TJ Cole and Aiv Rubino aka Twin Pixie are inspired by the likes of SOPHIE and Grimes and explore themes of queerness and the supernatural in their majestic, ethereal soundscapes. Propelled by glitchy beats, ‘Firestarter’ races with a sweeping cinematic allure as poignant spoken-word vocals soar, tearing into the sexist norms of society. (ML)

Khx05 – ‘Trouble’
I have Nova Twins to thank for introducing me to North Carolina-based artist Khx05. They feature on the duo’s compilation album Voices For The Unheard, a blistering collection of alternative anthems that showcase the eclectic, tenacious range of talent from artists of colour in the heavy & alternative music scenes. (KC)

Ms Mohammed – ‘Pandora’
‘Pandora’ and its rolling, rumbling drums – such a tune by Ms Mohammed who we had a total blast with in the Get In Her Ears studio a few years ago. As well as being an artist in her own right, Ms Mohammed founded the Clit Rock movement in 2013 as a way of speaking out against female genital mutilation. As a champion of cross-cultural tolerance and an out queer artist who advocates for LGBTQIA+ rights and visibility, Ms Mohammed is challenging prejudice through her music and we stand by her every step of the way! (TW)

pink suits – ‘pink suits everyone’
Margate based queer punk-rock duo pink suits incorporate politically driven rage, dance and even theatre into their work, exploring issues of sexuality, mental health and a resistance of binary gender. Taken from their recently released album, political child, ‘Pink Suits Everyone’ oozes a rousing, stirring intent. Offering a vibrant message of inclusivity and hope, here the duo urge us to come together and unite against the powers that seek to contain us. Watch the new video for ‘Pink Suits Everyone’ here. (ML)

Ezra Furman – ‘Suck The Blood From My Wound’
Having recently come out as a Transgender woman, and shared beautiful images of herself with her child, Ezra Furman has long been a favourite of mine, since I first fell in love with her 2018 album Transangelic Exodus. This Pride, I think it’s particularly important to celebrate the Transgender community whilst drawing attention to how society’s acceptance of trans and gender non-conforming people still has a long way to go. As Furman poignantly states in her coming out message: “I’m telling you I’m a mom now for a specific reason. Because one problem with being trans is that we have so few visions of what it can look like to have an adult life, to grow up and be happy and not die young. When our baby was born I had approximately zero examples that I had seen of trans women raising children. So here’s one for anyone who wants to see one. I’m a trans woman and a mom. This is possible.” (ML)

Chuck SJ – ‘Sink Your Teeth In’
This single is taken from DIY multi-instrumentalist Chuck SJ’s upcoming debut album Resist.Recharge.Revolt, which is set for release later this year. Full of atmospheric guitar riffs, sparse beats and glitchy electronics, it’s an industrial-tinged rumination on the forces that construct, influence and sometimes dismantle our ways of thinking. Chuck is also one half of punk duo Byenary who you can check out here. (KC)

Bitch Hunt – ‘Shapeshifter’
Non-binary band Bitch Hunt originally formed at the amazing First Timers fest, and have just released their debut EP via Reckless Yes. The title track of the EP, ‘Shapeshifter’ is a stirring slice of effervescent punk-pop, reflecting on themes of transition and gender identity, and how we are consistently ‘shape-shifting’ depending on our circumstances. A resonant yet ultimately uplifting offering, oozing a sparkling sense of optimism. (ML)

Grace Petrie – ‘Pride’
Taken from 2018’s album Queer As Folk, Grace Petrie’s ‘Pride’ offers a reflection on the strides that have been made for the LGBTQIA+ movement over the years, whilst also drawing attention to how far we still have to go to end all forms of discrimination. With her poignant, heartfelt lyricism oozing both a stirring sense of solidarity and hope, as well as frustration and rage (“I know you don’t want to face the fact / that each and every day we’re still being attacked…”), it’s a perfectly resonant anthem drawing attention to why we still need Pride, over 50 years on from the Stonewall Rebellion. (ML)

Naz and Ella – ‘Internalised’
Having been guests on our radio show back in 2019, alt-folk duo Naz & Ella recently released their new EP, De-Humanize. Taken from the EP, ‘Internalised’ is a deeply poignant offering about overcoming internalised queerphobia. Oozing a gritty edge and sweeping, stirring majesty, it’s an empowering ode reflecting the heartfelt message running throughout the EP as a whole, as the band explained in a recent interview with us: “… you don’t have to participate in your own dehumanisation to comply with social norms.” (ML)

Arlo Parks – ‘Black Dog’
I cannot get enough of Arlo Parks and her mesmerising music, so full of emotion I get lost in every second. ‘Black Dog’ is no different, a frank, heart-breaking insight into the the darkness of depression. Mental health awareness within the LGTBQIA+ communities is so important, especially with rising levels of isolation and loneliness. From talking, to supporting, to asking and reaching out for help is so important and totally OK to do. The more we can look out for each other, the more we can encourage and show people that asking for help is a sign of strength not weakness. (TW)

Kele – ‘Smalltown Boy’ (Bronski Beat Cover) 
I was lucky enough to speak to Kele Orekeke about his new album The Waves Pt. 1 earlier this month for The Line Of Best Fit, and he was incredibly generous with his time. I regret that I was too shy to tell him how much of my late teens & early twenties I spent dancing to Bloc Party and his first album The Boxer, so I thought I’d mention it here instead. His cover of Bronski Beat’s iconic LGBTQ+ anthem ‘Smalltown Boy’ is really beautiful, fore-fronting the track’s unique melancholy in an understated and moving way. (KC)

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