PLAYLIST: April 2026

The Get In Her Ears team have put together another eclectic mix of new music for your listening pleasure! Our April Playlist features DIY punk anthems, indie and alt-pop bangers, shoegaze & grunge tunes, plus, some experimental & electronic soundscapes. Scroll through our recommendations below…

In order to best support the female, LGBTQIA+ and non-binary artists that we love here at GIHE, we’ve moved away from using Spotify. We now have an account on TIDAL, so please follow us on there! We’ve also included YouTube/bandcamp links for all of the tracks below, so there’s plenty of ways for you to get your new music fix.

You can still access our GIHE profile on Spotify (which we do not have a paid subscription for) but we urge you to use TIDAL, bandcamp or YouTube instead. Happy listening!

CLICK HERE TO LISTEN ON TIDAL

 

Dose – ‘Shelley’
Loosely inspired by the pop culture myth of actress Shelley Duvall disappearing after she starred in cult horror flick The Shining, ‘Shelley’ is the latest single from Dublin four-piece Dose. It’s taken from their upcoming debut EP, Sycophantic, which they’ll be releasing later this year via Pizza Pizza Records. Dose’s skilful pairing of hazy riffs and ambiguous lyrics, alongside their striking visuals means they’re becoming firm favourites of mine. Directed by Aoife Spratt, the accompanying video for ‘Shelley’ acts as a spoof of Stanley Kubrick’s iconic ’80s film, shot across a handful of Irish locations, including The Ferrycarrig Hotel in Wexford, New Ross Arboretum and a Dublin hotel. Check it out below.
(Kate Crudgington – Features Editor)

Shy New World – ‘Fahrradtag’
A gloriously trippy new single from London duo Shy New World, ‘Fahrradtag’ means ‘bicycle day’ in German and it’s easy to imagine lots of bikes speeding through the city as the track’s colourful swirling haze ripples throughout.
(Mari Lane – Managing Editor)

Meg Elsier – ‘meaning of life’
The marvellous Meg Elsier is back with this deeply relatable new track, inspired by her ruminations on moving through periods of depression, negative thought spirals and trying to find purpose again. Her candid lyrics and reverb-heavy riffs make for cathartic listening, as she unravels her thoughts on finding meaning and reason in a world that often seems void of both. (KC)

Mad Honey – ‘Moshfeghian’
A swirling, slow-burning offering from Oklahoma City band Mad Honey here. ‘Moshfeghian’ features on their upcoming second album, Bridge Over Cumberland, which is due on 15th May via Deathwish Inc. and Sunday Drive Records. By blending the quiet-to-load dynamic of grunge and the shimmering sensitivity of dream-pop, the band evoke a deep sense of nostalgia on this track, which guitarist Lennon Bramlett believes forms the basis of the whole record. (KC)

dvrkworld – ‘Stimulation’
‘Stimulation’ is the latest single from Tasmanian alt-rock band dvrkworld. Blending gritty riffs with lush vocals, the track reflects on the overwhelming presence of technology in today’s world. dvrkworld released their debut self-titled EP back in 2025 via Psychedelic Salad Records and they are currently working on their first full-length album, due in early 2027. (KC)

Waterdeer – ‘Goddamn’
Having blown us away playing for us at New River Studios a while back, shoegaze international supergroup Waterdeer (featuring members of Ritual Error and former members of GHUM) have now finally released some of their captivating music into the world. Flowing with a haunting, shimmering grace, ‘Goddamn’ will immerse you in its rich dreamy splendour on first listen. I can’t wait to hear more. (ML)

 

Roomer – ‘Written By’
Berlin-based dream rock outfit Roomer are new to me, but I’m loving their latest single. ‘Written By’ is a dreamy, reverb-heavy rumination on the subtlety nature of growth and change. The band will be venturing to Brighton in May to play The Great Escape Festival, so make sure you check them out if you’re heading down to the seaside! (KC)

Mi.el – ‘She Will Be Gone’
An immersive slice of dream-pop, ‘She Will Be Gone’ is taken from the poignant latest EP from London duo Mi.el. Exploring female empowerment and curiosities, the EP offers a lilting collection as rich celestial vocals and lilting hooks shimmer throughout with a captivating grace reminiscent of the likes of Warpaint or The XX. (ML)

maehem99 – ‘I Can’t Be Your Guy’
I am hooked on this gritty piece of electronica from non-binary, Irish-South African artist maehem99. ‘I Can’t Be Your Guy’ is their debut single and the first track they’ve shared from their upcoming EP, Sexual Commerce, which is set for release on 18th June. The EP is maehem99’s authentic sonic statement of self-autonomy, as well as a reflection on the industries that tried to mould them into something they’re not. (KC)

Tomorrow Woman – ‘The Flower’
Tomorrow Woman is the new project of California-born, Paris-based artist Betsy Roszko, formerly of punk band Gomme. With her strong DIY spirit and background in dance and movement, she changed musical gears and began experimenting with electronics under her new monkier. This track ‘The Flower’ is taken from her debut EP, Plays Machines, which is set for release on 1st May, and it’s inspired by Betsy’s favourite Buddhist quote: “If we could see the miracle of a single flower clearly, our whole life would change”. It’s an infectious mix of enveloping synths, dreamy vocals and twitchy beats, designed to immerse listeners in the moment. (KC) 

HEIGHTS – ‘Belong’ 
A captivating slice of alt-pop inspired by the binary oppositions of closeness and isolation, ‘Belong’ is the latest single from HEIGHTS. Full of her soft vocals and dreamy cinematic synths, the track acts as a sonic confession for the artist, which she explains in more detail: “I wrote ‘Belong’ about the tension between craving closeness and feeling like you don’t quite belong anywhere yet. It’s a late-night conversation with yourself about identity and the need to feel seen – searching for home in another person while still trying to find it within yourself. Really outing myself as an overthinker with this one.” (KC)

Eve Maret – ‘Gethsemani’
I’ve only just discovered Nashville-based experimental artist and composer Eve Maret, but I’m fascinated by her sound and her aesthetic. Inspired by her self-desribed “complicated” Catholic upbringing, she penned this track ‘Gethsemani’ – named after the biblical garden – when she visited a monastery. It’s taken from her upcoming album, Diamond Cutter, which is set for release on 17th April. She uses an array of sythns, instruments and recording techniques to create her unusual and exploratory sounds, which she performs in full costume as a Nun. “Dressing up like a nun and playing music felt like a random idea at first, but in retrospect, my life has been building towards this culmination point for years,” Eve shares. “I’m re-contextualizing my wounds to empower myself. I’m taking the parts of Catholicism I appreciate and reappropriating them. I am devoted to music, to knowing myself, and to having fun in the process.” (KC)

Bugeye – ‘Comfortably Numb’
Big faves of ours at GIHE for many years now, Croydon punk-pop band Bugeye have now announced the release of a new album, and they’ve celebrated by sharing a fierce new single. Reflecting on the mixed feelings around late nights and dancefloor antics, ‘Comfortably Numb’ sizzles with an ‘80s-inspired brooding energy as the band’s trademark colourful layered hooks pulsating disco beats take hold. The Shape Of Things, the upcoming new album from Bugeye, is out 15th May via INH Records. (ML)

Downtown Boys – ‘You’re A Ghost’
Having first met at union meetings while working together at a hotel, founding members of Downtown Boys Victoria Marie and Joey La Neve DeFrancesco let their political drive and desire for change seep into everything they release as a band, and this is certainly the case with their latest single. A fierce retort against ICE, genocide and the suppression of marginalised voices, ‘You’re A Ghost’ races with a raging, chaotic energy, building to an immense and necessary slice of industrial dance-punk. The resonant and powerful accompanying animated video was directed by Lebanese artist Khalil (@palpable.image). Public Luxury, the upcoming new album from Downtown Boys, is set for release on 26th June via Sup Pop. (ML)

WIDGET – ‘WHAT IF PHONES BUT TOO MUCH’
Having completely dazzled us with their gritty compelling energy and utterly unique charisma when they headlined New River Studios for us last month, East London post-punk supergroup WIDGET (featuring members of Big Joanie, all cats are beautiful, Junodef and Zahra Haji Fath Ali Tehrani) have just released their debut album, Classy Hits Vol.2. Taken from the album, ‘WHAT IF PHONES BUT TOO MUCH’ offers a seething, satirical anthem, as fitting for the dancefloor as it is for taking to the streets and rising up against the powers that be. Of the track, the band explain: “It’s a song about not accepting the lot you’ve been given, about pushing up at the glass ceiling and smashing it wide open on your way out. Fulfilling the dream we’ve definitely all had where everyone’s face is Danny Dyer and saying ‘god no this is absolutely not what I want from life please and thank you’”. You can catch WIDGET talking about their new album in more detail on our next Soho Radio show on Wednesday 13th May at 8-10pm! (ML)

Cootie Catcher – ‘Loiter For The Love Of It’
New favourite band (and band name) alert! Having released a new album in February, Toronto’s Cootie Catcher have just come to my attention with the announcement of a UK tour later this year. I’m a big fan of their lo-fi scuzzy sounds and honey-sweet harmonies; a perfect combo of twee innocence and chaotic angst-driven energy. Something We All Got, the latest album from Cootie Catcher, is out now via Carpark Records. (ML)

Carla J. Easton – ‘Let’s Make Plans For The Weekend’
Having played in awesome bands such as TeenCanteen and The Vaselines, Scottish musician Carla J. Easton is now set to release a new solo album next month, featuring collaborations with the likes of MALKA and Darren Hayman. Ahead of the album’s release, she’s just shared an uplifting new single. A celebration of late nights, friendship and the weekly ritual of letting go, ‘Let’s Make Plans For The Weekend’ offers a sparkling slice of playful synth-pop; a perfectly sparkling summer bop. I Think That I Might Love You, the upcoming new album from Carla J. Easton, is out on 8th May via Ernest Jenning Record Co. (ML)

Gabi Garbutt – ‘Lightning Held’
Following last month’s empowering anthem ‘Radical Love’, London artist Gabi Garbutt has now released a driving new single. Propelled by a glowing, danceable groove, ‘Lightning Held’ offers an uplifting proclamation of being open to love, fizzing with a sparkling energy as Gabutt’s introspective pop-poetry flows throughout. (ML)

Not Richard & Her Majesty – ‘A Song About Being A Parasite’
The latest single from Brighton based glam rockers Not Richard & Her Majesty, ‘A Song About Being A Parasite’ reflects on the end of a romantic relationship and the mixed emotions that can come with this. Fizzing with ska-tinged beats and glistening synth-laden hooks, it’s an instantly catchy anthem offering all the effervescent allure of Marc Bolan with a fresh queer energy. Not Richard & Her Majesty will be playing at Brighton’s Alternative Escape Festival on 15th May at Hotel Pelirocco. (ML)

Grandmas House – ‘DOG’
GIHE faves Grandmas House are back with this excellent new single ‘DOG’. The Bristol-based post-punks penned this track during a time of personal struggle, when a band member was living with a chronic illness that no health professional could properly explain. Through their racing riffs, marching beats and fluctuating tempos, the band explore feelings of unease and the exhaustion of living through a health crises, offering brief respite for listeners who have found themselves in similar circumstances. (KC)

Frances Murray – ‘Holidays By The Sea’
Described as one of her favourite tracks from her debut solo album, Dreamer, ‘Holiday By The Sea’ is the latest single from Essex-born, Brighton-based songwriter Frances Murray (fka BLAB). For this song, Frances used the “cut up” lyric technique, which involves physically cutting words out of newspapers & magazines or lifting lines from poetry in order to create your own song, which perfectly encapsulates the scrap-book, nostalgic spirit of ‘Holidays By The Sea’. To celebrate the release of Dreamer, Frances will be playing a show in Southend at The Fickle Pickle (12th June) and in Brighton at the Hope and Ruin (3rd June) too. (KC) 

TERE! – ‘MAN’
Fuelled by a desire to process her trauma and to offer a message of solidarity to survivors of sexual assault, Spanish-born, Liverpool-based songwriter TERE! penned this intense single ‘MAN’. Through her potent vocals, dramatic volume shifts and explicit lyricism, TERE! tackles these issues with a formidable spirit, fighting her demons and gaining the courage to help others in the process. She will be releasing her debut album, NO MORE MANNERS, in May this year. (KC)

No Peeling – ‘Stationery’
A catchy slice of energetic garage-pop from Nottingham-based band No Peeling here! ‘Stationery’ is lifted from their upcoming EP, simply titled EP2, which is set for release on 1st May via Wrong Speed Records & Feel It Records. Inspired by both the mundanity and the joy of everyday life – like stationery for example – it’s a playful collection of tracks that the band believe aptly captures the spirit of their live shows. (KC) 

Irked – ‘Who Asked?’
Self-described as “a garage-punk hate letter to the world,” North-East punks Irked are on the cusp of sharing their debut album, Grievance, on 1st May via Wrong Speed Records. The LP is a deeply personal dismantling of the politics of gender, class and toxic behaviours in the workplace, which this track ‘Who Asked?’ directly addresses. Lyrically inspired by notes on band members phones and late night chats, the track explores the contradictions of “day jobs, night shifts, work drinks and half-hearted plans”. (KC)

THE NONE – ‘Watch’ / ‘Daddy Doesn’t Make Mistakes’
We are big fans of Birmingham-based punk outfit THE NONE here at GIHE, so we’re excited to see that they’re back with more vital, abrasive and electrifying new music. The band performed ‘Watch’ and ‘Daddy Doesn’t Make Mistakes’ for a live session with state51, which you can watch below. Filmed in one continuous take, the video captures vocalist Kai’s visceral energy perfectly, alongside their bandmates cacophonous blend of intense riffs and beats. The session also features a cover of Napalm Death’s infamous ‘You Suffer’. THE NONE will be curating two all-day events with some of their favourite acts in London (16th May) and in Birmingham (18th July). Tickets are available on DICE now. (KC)

Spit Takes – ‘Teeth’
With a songwriting technique described as “a zero fucks given approach on dark times with tongue-in-cheek wit,” it’s no wonder we became instant fans of Minneapolis-based punk band Spit Takes. This riotous single ‘Teeth’ is the title track from their upcoming debut album, which is set for release on 9th May via independent label Whiplass Records. Full of raging catharsis and reminiscent of the raw energy of iconic Riot Grrrl bands like Bikini Kill, Spit Takes’ sound is vehemently anti-fascist and totally up GIHE street. (KC)

Dogviolet – ‘Daisy Crowns’
Following the spellbinding power of songs like ‘Dandelions’ and ‘Violets’, long time favourites Dogviolet have returned to grace our ears with another beautiful, floral-themed single. A captivating reflection on nostalgia, ‘Daisy Crowns’ flows with a dark, sweeping majesty, longing for the frivolous joy of youth with a sparkling desperation. It’s always a highlight of their live sets, oozing an all-compassing swirling allure. (ML)

Jolanda Moletta (ft. Yellow Belly) – ‘Their Voices Rise Above The Waves’
A stunning soundscape that will captivate and lull listeners into a dreamlike state, this is the latest single from multimedia artist and one-woman electronic choir Jolanda Moletta. ‘Their Voices Rise Above The Waves’ is lifted from her upcoming third album (and first for label Becaon Sound) Oceanine, which is set for release on 1st May. It’s a sonic celebration of female power and divinity, as well as an ode to survival and collective memory. Each track on Oceanine features a collaboration with a different female vocalist, including Nadine Khouri, Karen Vogt, Astrid Williamson, Elska, Yellow Belly and more. Speaking about her deeply personal new work, Jolanda explains: “Oceanine is inspired by sirens, water nymphs, and the timeless call of the sea. At its core lies my deep, lifelong connection to the Mediterranean Sea and to the ancient and modern myths and folklore that have emerged from its waters…The entire album is built exclusively from the human voice, processed and layered, yet always remaining voice, and nothing else.” (KC)

afromerm – ‘reflections’
This beautiful track is lifted from GIHE fave and Oram Award-winning artist afromerm’s latest EP, held. An emotive and eclectic blend of field recordings, soothing vocals and electro-acoustic instrumentation, the three-track EP showcases afromerm’s instinctive sonic connection to water and the sea, as well as being a testament to the fluidity and shifting tides of life itself. ‘reflections’ also features arrangements from talented collaborators YUIS and Marysia Osu too. (KC)

 

Penelope Trappes – ‘Platinum’ (Saint Etienne Rework)
It seems there are no limits to the extraordinary vision of Brighton-based Australian multi-disciplinary artist Penelope Trappes. In 2025, she shared her poignant, grief-inspired album A Requium, along with a companion LP, Æternum, which featured a new set of compositions. Now, she is preparing to share Opvs Novum: A Requiem Reworked, a new collaborative record which expands her captivating concepts even further. Set for release on 29th May via One Little Independent Records, Penelope “reframes” her original release with the help of an array of discerning artists, including Gazelle Twin, Midwife, Julia Holter, PRIZMA9 and more. On this new version of ‘Platinum’, London trio Saint Etienne bring a hypnotic, hymn-like sensibility to the track, whilst still retaining the haunting quality of the original. I am so excited to listen to the new record in full! (KC)

BISHI – ‘Maya She Lives Inside Me’
We are consistently impressed by the eclectic projects that British Bengali multi-instrumentalist & composer BISHI brings her unique talents to, so we were excited to discover that she has produced her first original soundtrack! She wrote the score for MAYA: The Birth of a Superhero, which is a 30 minute immersive VR animated film that forms part of award-winning activist and transmedia artist Poulomi Basu’s law-changing multimedia project, Blood Speaks – exploring menstrual exile and violence against women in South Asia – which was shortlisted at Festival de Cannes 2024. Now, BISHI is preparing to release the soundtrack via her own label Gryphon Records on 15th May, and to celebrate, she will be host four special live performances of the score across the UK in June. These shows will feature BISHI on voice, sitar and electronics alongside live strings, with bespoke visuals from the creators of MAYA: The Birth of a Superhero, manipulated live to create an immersive concert experience. (KC)

Hannah Schneider – ‘The Apartment’
Recently releasing her innovative solo album, The Room, Danish artist Hannah Schneider is keen to reclaim the creative process, consistently insisting on presence, intuition, and craftsmanship as the driving forces behind the creation of her music. Rejecting the use of AI in music, she recorded together with other musicians at a residency at the historical Thorvaldsens Museum, fusing together an eclectic array of musical elements and processes to create something truly exceptional. Taken from the album, ‘The Apartment’ showcases Schneider’s rich, immersive soundscapes and beguiling, sumptuous vocals perfectly. Watch the beautiful new video below. (ML)

CLICK HERE TO LISTEN ON TIDAL

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FIVE FAVOURITES: Hater

Malmö-based indie-pop band Hater said they weren’t expecting to write a bunch of love songs for their new album, Mosquito, but that’s what flowed from their fingertips after a long hiatus. Released via Fire Records, the band capture this disarming combination of reluctance and urgency by seamlessly combining their lush melodies, dreamy riffs and explicit lyrics to tenderly dismantle themes of traditional love, tinged with mythical references to romantic paraphernalia (vampires, Cupid, mosquitoes…?)

We think one of the best ways to get to know a band is by asking what music inspired them to write in the first place. We caught up with Hater’s vocalist Caroline Landahl to ask about her “Five Favourites” and she picked five songs by an eclectic range of artists who have inspired her songwriting. Check out her choices below and scroll down to watch the official video for Hater’s single ‘Angel Cupid’ too…

 

1. Michael Farneti – ‘The River’
This song has been one of my favourites for years. It’s just so sensible and beautiful. Describing how you can’t stop your emotions after all. I feel that it speaks to me. I didn’t know anything about the artist until recently when I found an interview from 2021. Turns out it’s his 12-year-old brother playing the drums on the record and that it was all recorded by Michael. Bloody brilliant drumming!

2. Wilco – ‘Say You Miss Me’
I’ve been a real sucker for Wilco for years and literally eat their songs over and over again. I could mention a trip duplet amount of their songs as favourites, but I’ll choose ‘Say You Miss Me’ for this time. I’ve listened to it a hundred times at least and sung it out loud while driving multiple times. I’ve even forced it on my daughter, since it’s been one of the only CDs I can play over and over again in the car. Car rides with Wilco everyone, a strong recommendation. I would die to see this song live one day. Unfortunately, my luck with making Wilco’s live shows has been incredibly bad, hopefully this summer will be my chance, since I see they’re touring towards us Scandis finally!

3. Credence Clearwater Revival – ‘Up Around The Bend’
When I was about 7 years old, I found a wet tape on the grass on the way to school one morning. Someone had written ‘CCR’ on it and I had no clue what it was. The whole day was just an endless wait until I could listen to it. When I got home, I put it in my tape player in my room, well excited. I remember calling for my sister and then we danced and did funny dance and jump moves around a tiny round mat I had on the floor. I think we did that for what felt like hours. It took years until I found out what band it was, and It’s still some form of comfort music to me. One time on tour I locked myself in in a shower and just blasted Credence Clearwater Revival to calm my nerves down.

4. Jim James – ‘Just A Fool’
He seems to have released two versions of this beauty. I preferred the one that sounds like a demo from the album Uniform Clarity. This song really had me at one point. Still does I guess – “just a fool getting by, just a fool doing alright”. I like how he speaks about ordinary emotions in such an uncomplicated way and holds the song with such presence throughout. I wish I could write a song like that. I’ve done a demo of it once; I even sent it to a crush.

5. Jim O’Rourke – Women of the World: Take Over
I remember I once had this song on a CD. I loved it, it’s just a mantra playing over and over. And now with all evil going on I think it suits the time. The song was originally written by Scottish poet Ivor Cutler, and the original version is just as special as Jim’s. Make sure to have a listen to both of them. I like how Jim is phrasing the words in his melody, but Cutler does it more straight forward which makes the two songs differ a lot in a beautiful way.

Thanks to Caroline for sharing her favourites with us!
Watch the video for Hater’s single ‘Angel Cupid’ below…

Follow Hater on bandcamp, TIDAL, Instagram & Facebook

Hater Tour Dates 2026
02 April – Plan B, Malmö, SE
02 May – Nice N Sleazy, Glasgow, UK
03 May – Sounds From the Other City, Manchester, UK
04 May – The Cumberland Arms, Newcastle, UK
05 May – The Library, Oxford, UK
06 May – Hare & Hounds, Birmingham, UK
07 May – Signature Brew Haggerston, London, UK
22 May – Oceanen, Gothenburg, SE
23 May – Kollektivet Livet, Stockholm, SE

Photo Credit: David Möller

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Five Favourites: Tenderness

As someone who had Deep Throat Choir soundtrack me walking down the aisle, hearing the voice of anyone from that incredible collective always feels pretty special. And so the debut solo album from Katy Beth Young (also of Peggy Sue) – aka Tenderness – has been an extremely welcome treat for my ears since its release last month. Showcasing Young’s gorgeously rich vocals as twinkling Americana-tinged hooks ripple throughout, True offers stirring reflections on relationships, grief and the fleeting nature of joy. As a gentle melancholy flows alongside a twinkling uplifting grace, it’s an exquisite testament to Young’s resonant songwriting and the beautiful raw emotion that shimmers through every song. I was lucky enough to hear the album live at St Pancras Old Church a few weeks back; a perfect setting for the moving celestial splendour of Tenderness.

We think one of the best ways to get to know an artist is by asking what music inspires them the most. So, we caught up with Katy to ask about her “Five Favourites” and she’s picked five albums that she feels most influenced the writing and recording of True. Check out her choices below, scroll to down to watch the beautiful video for ‘Day Of Atonement‘, which features Deep Throat Choir singing alongside Katy, and make sure you set aside time to immerse yourself in the full album.

Kim Deal – The 2013-2014 Singles 
This is not exactly an album (sorry!) but I love Kim Deal a lot and she/The Breeders have been a huge influence. She put out these ten singles in 2013-14 without much fuss and I listened to them constantly when I discovered them about a year later – ‘Are You Mine?’ and ‘Beautiful Moon’ are pretty much perfect. There’s surfy guitars and lo-fi drums and Kim Deal’s perfect voice and also absolutely killer lyrics like – “I’m happy for you / but I feel crying”. I’m always aiming for that kind of conciseness and contradiction with my own lyrics. The arrangements are very sparse and simple and satisfying and they sound very alive. It’s like each song has been condensed into its absolute essence, which is something I’ve aspired to do with Tenderness – just letting the song be itself musically and lyrically. They also all sound like they belong together – from the heaviest to the gentlest. True was made over quite a long time, so Euan and I worked really hard to pull some sonic threads through them and make sure they belonged, and this set of songs was a really good touch point for that. 

Big Thief – Masterpiece
The first Big Thief song I heard was ‘Real Love’. In the space of a week about six different friends sent it to me saying “I think you’ll like this” and obviously I did. I love every Big Thief album & their solo stuff too – they are each perfect for a slightly different day, time, mood  – but Masterpiece is still the one I listen to the most. It makes me want to sing along in a way that probably only Mariah Carey ever did before. The song ‘Masterpiece’ makes me want to write loud songs and ‘Lorraine’ makes me want to write quiet sexy songs and ‘Vegas’ makes me want to practice the guitar. 

Allegra Krieger – I Keep My Feet on The Fragile Plane
A lot of my writing influences happen quite slowly without me really noticing, but recording influences are much more conscious. Allegra Krieger was a big one for this album. The sounds and the mood and the space she leaves around things is so captivating. We used it as a reference for vocal sounds and mood a lot. And the songs are brilliant and clever – there’s a real sense of place and time and Krieger can create a whole world or a whole relationship in a couple of lines. This is one of my favourites from the song ‘Lingering’ – “I wanted to tell you something small and stupid / but I couldn’t remember when I saw your face.” I’ll listen to any album that Double Double Whammy puts out now. 

Bright Eyes – I’m Wide Awake, It’s Morning
For better or worse Bright Eyes will probably always be my hand-on-heart ‘favourite band’. I discovered them at my most tender and suggestible age (I was trying to download ‘Total Eclipse of the Heart’ on Limewire but I’d forgotten what the title was). Oberst’s lyrics have had a profound effect on how I write and what I aim for – they are honest and wise and naive and heartbreaking and hopeful at once. When I was younger, I loved Lifted, or the story is in the soil, keep your ear to the ground the best because it’s noisy and emo and kind of mean, but now that I’ve fully accepted that my soul is part-country I’ve come back around to I’m Wide Awake… It’s a bit of a time capsule for me now, plus it has Emmylou Harris on two songs.

Laura Marling – Song for our Daughter 
This album came out at the very start of the pandemic and I listened to it a lot walking around my local area that summer – which is also when I was writing the songs that would become True. Laura has been an influence forever, but I think at that moment there was something particularly inspiring about the clarity of her voice and her storytelling and the musicality of the arrangement. It helped me give myself permission to make these quieter songs with my voice right in the middle.


Huge thanks to Katy for telling us about her Five Favourites! Watch the beautiful video ‘Day Of Atonement’ below, and make sure you check out True, the debut album from Tenderness, which is out now via Amorphous Sounds.

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PLAYLIST: February 2026

The Get In Her Ears team have put together another eclectic mix of new music for your listening pleasure. Our February Playlist features riff-heavy anthems, shoegaze & dream-pop tunes, indie and alt-pop bangers, electronic musings and experimental sounds. Scroll through our recommendations below!

In order to best support the female, LGBTQIA+ and non-binary artists that we love here at GIHE, we’ve moved away from using Spotify. We now have an account on TIDAL, so please follow us on there! You’ll also see that we’ve copied all of our previous GIHE playlists over to TIDAL as well. We’ve included YouTube/bandcamp links for all of the tracks below too, so there’s plenty of ways for you to get your new music fix.

You can still access our GIHE profile on Spotify (which we do not have a paid subscription for) but we urge you to use TIDAL, bandcamp or YouTube instead. Happy listening!

CLICK HERE TO LISTEN ON TIDAL

 

The Echograms – ‘Lovesick’
Having played live for us last year at The Cavendish Arms, Margate based Claire Pitt-Wigmore and her band The Echograms deliver swirling ‘bluegaze’ soundscapes with a gritty raw emotion. Taken from their debut EP, ‘Lovesick’ glistens with a fizzing atmospheric allure and fierce riffs, offering an immersive reflection on limerance and the realisation that people often don’t live up to our expectations of them. With its intricate and captivating musicality, this debut signals The Echograms as definite ones to watch.
(Mari Lane – Managing Editor)

VERO – ‘Dead Train’
Another month, another excellent single from Stockholm trio VERO. ‘Dead Train’ is the third track to be lifted from the band’s upcoming second album, Razor Tongue, set for release on 20th March via PNKSLM. Their new record is inspired by their restless, urgent spirit and I think that translates perfectly through their brooding, grunge-inspired riffs and angst-ridden vocals. VERO will be playing a London headline show at The Shacklewell Arms on 26th March. I can’t wait to hear these tracks in the flesh! (Kate Crudgington – Features Editor)

Pixie Cut Rhythm Orchestra – ‘I’ve Been Here Before’
I’ve been a big fan of Dublin’s Pixie Cut Rhythm Orchestra since Irish musician Fears recommended them to us on our Soho Radio show in 2021. I’m thrilled that they’re back with new single ‘I’ve Been Here Before’, which is a gritty reflection on the “performative lifestyles and the instability of modern city living”. As always, Sarah Deegan’s witty and cutting lyricism shines through, thanks to her distinctive vocals and the grinding riffs that underscore them. (KC)

Blackwater Holylight – ‘Bodies’
Having recently released their fourth album, Not Here Not Gone, LA based Blackwater Holylight combine dreamy psych-tinged soundscapes with a fierce power to create a sound that is entirely their own. Taken from the album, latest single ‘Bodies’ showcases the band’s ability to interweave immense, doom-laden soundscapes with an immersive transcendental majesty. Read about some of the albums that inspire drummer Eliese Dorsay the most in our recent Five Favourites feature. (ML)

Kathryn Mohr – ‘Property’
Oakland-based artist Kathryn Mohr is adept at capturing a heavy mood in her music and her latest single ‘Property’ is no exception. Lifted from her upcoming second album, Carve, which is set for release on 17th April via The Flenser, it’s an “amalgamation of dream images and visions” that Kathryn had throughout 2025, drenched in reverb and full of her potent vocals. Her upcoming record is a poignant reflection on love, grief, intimacy and isolation and how these things inform our understanding of ourselves over time. (KC)

Topsy Turvy – ‘Five Guitars’
Galvanized by their frustrations at the behaviour of a male touring musician in their hometown music scene, Vienna-based DIY rock trio Topsy Turvy penned their new album, the excellently titled Fighting the Ginormous Macho Nacho, in righteous retaliation. Set for release on 23rd May via Siluh Records, the album blends their garage-punk, psych-rock influences with upfront lyricism and direct vocals, with single ‘Five Guitars’ perfectly showcasing their new-found anarchic attitude. (KC)

Charley Stone – ‘Forever Your Love’
With February traditionally being a time to celebrate romance, GIHE fave Charley Stone has decided to share a lilting ode to unrequited love. As shimmering hooks fizz alongside Stone’s distinctive honey-sweet vocals and playful tongue-in-cheek lyricism, ‘Forever Your Love’ reflects on feelings of longing from a hopeless romantic for something unattainable. (ML)

Top Shortage – ‘Susan Stryker’
Having become a leading figure in Oxford’s queer community and DIY scene before even officially releasing any music, Top Shortage have now shared their first proper single. Oozing a fierce raw emotion with a driving post-punk energy, ‘Susan Stryker’ draws on an excerpt from transfeminist theorist Susan Stryker’s 1994 essay, My Words to Victor Frankenstein Above the Village of Chamonix, with a striking, impassioned drive. Pushing against the notion of bodies, sex and gender as natural and immutable, the track offers a timely and cathartic anthem calling for trans liberation. Vocalist Noa expands: “Trans people are so often seen as monstrous by a bigoted society – the essay, and this song, reclaims that monstrosity and makes it a rallying cry.’ (ML)

Lemonade Sin – ‘Murmurs and Creaks’
Consisting of members you may recognise from other bands over the years, London-via-Devon quintet Lemonade Sin create catchy slices of indie-pop based around the songwriting partnership of Lee Friese-Greene (Sidi Bou Said, Soup, Short-Haired Domestic) and Simon Aldous (Umbrella Heaven). With the addition of Jennifer Denitto (BCOS RSNS, Linus), Charlotte Beale (Joan, Soup) and Robin Morgan (Umbrella Heaven, Joan) to complete the line-up, they’re now set to release their third album this Spring. Our first taste of the album comes in the form of latest single ‘Murmurs and Creaks’. Inspired by the fictional pairing of Jane Eyre and Edward Rochester, it interweaves motorik rhythms with swirling synth patterns and distinctive vocal harmonies to create a driving, Stereolab-reminiscent indie-pop anthem. (ML)

WIDGET – ‘Chamois Leather’
Following on from their self-titled debut EP in 2024, East London post-punk supergroup (featuring members of Big Joanie, all cats are beautiful, Junodef and Zahra Haji Fath Ali Tehrani) WIDGET have now shared a genre-bending new single. Fusing together funk-fuelled hooks with a fierce groove and Ky’s stark spoken word vocals, the track cements this awesome collective as definite ones to watch, and we cannot wait for them to headline for us at New River Studios on 13th March, with support from Coventry jazz-punk band The Genes and DIY newcomers Lunar Riot. Tickets are on Dice now and as always, they are cheaper in advance – it’s going to be a lot of fun, hope to see you there! (ML)

Gemas – ‘Hola’
This joyful slice of grunge-tinged dream-pop comes courtesy of Costa Rica-based DIY band Gemas. Taken from the band’s recent EP, Miedo a perder (which roughly translates as “Fear Of Losing”), this track ‘Hola’ deftly captures their self-defined “soft but restless, intimate but charged” energy. (KC)

Lauren Auder – ‘Praxis’
I’m still hammering London-based composer and producer Lauren Auder’s track ‘the ripple’ (my favourite from her 2023 debut album, the infinite spine) but I’m ultra pleased to see that she’s back releasing brand new music. ‘Praxis’ is lifted from her upcoming second album, Whole World As Vigil, which is set for release on 27th March via untitled. I love her rich, sensual voice and her innovative layering of synths, vocals and samples here – including the sound of a power drill cutting through metal! (KC)

Miss Grit – ‘Stranger’
This shape-shifting alt-pop tune from New York-based, Korean-American musician Miss Grit is taken from their upcoming new album, Under My Umbrella, which is set for release on 24th April via Mute. ‘Stranger’ is Miss Grit’s attempt to escape feelings of betrayal, underscored by contrasting synth textures, compelling beat changes and their translucent vocals. (KC)

ESYA – ‘Heaven’
I was so happy to see new music from ESYA – the solo project of Ayse Hassan (Savages, Kite Base, 180db) – in my GIHE inbox! This single ‘Heaven’ is lifted from her upcoming debut album, Chasing Desire, which is set for release on 10th April via AOK records. It’s an industrial-tinged soundscape, blending ESYA’s yearning vocals with atmospheric synths and propulsive rhythms. Her previous EP releases were captivating collections of eclectic sound and I expect that her debut full length offering will be equally as impressive. (KC)

TEll A ViSiON – ‘IDLU’
Propelled by terse tribal beats and a fierce driving energy, ‘IDLU’ is the latest single from genre-defying Berlin-based artist TEll A ViSiON. A play on words, with the title being an acronym for ‘I Don’t Like You’, the track offers a visceral statement of empowerment and freedom, emanating a raw emotion and gritty sense of urgency. (ML)

Maria BC – ‘Rare’
Another ambient shoegaze gem from American artist Maria BC here. Taken from their upcoming third album, Marathon, which is set for release on 27th February via Sacred Bones, ‘Rare’ is Maria’s sonic rumination on insomnia and romantic infatuation. “This is a song about being in love with someone who never sleeps,” they comment. “I’m proud of the chaotic arrangement – the skittering percussion, the discordant twang of my ancient zither.” Maria has expanded their sonic palette even further on their upcoming release, and I’m looking forward to listening to it in full. (KC)

Laura Misch – ‘Echoes’
I first became aware of saxophonist and composer Laura Misch when London-based artist afromerm recommended her to us on our Soho Radio show back in 2023. Since then, she has consistently impressed me with all that she’s released, and her latest single ‘Echoes’ is no exception. Described as a “transportive saxophone and voice-led meditation,” the track is lifted from her second album, Lithic, which is set for release on 5th June via iconic label One Little Independent Records. ‘Echoes’ was inspired by Laura’s equally profound reactions to observing both the ancient Paleolithic figurines of the mythic Venus, and the instinctive sense of “wonder” she also felt watching her friend’s baby crawling across the floor. To celebrate the release of her new album, Laura will play her biggest headline show to date at London’s Barbican on 3rd July. (KC)

Lauren Von Bülow – ‘Black Beach’
Inspired by a deep connection to her natural surroundings on the South coast of England, ‘Black Beach’ is the debut single from Hastings-based songwriter Lauren Von Bülow. It’s an atmospheric, emotionally charged offering that sees her blend introspective lyrics with shadowy electronics and brooding vocals. ‘Black Beach’ is also accompanied by a music video that Lauren filmed locally, which you can watch below. (KC)

Monday’s Child – ‘Over Again’
A bittersweet declaration of pure love, ‘Over Again’ is the latest single from Belfast-based band Monday’s Child. It’s their first piece of new music since the release of their debut EP, Modern Affair (2025), full of dramatic fluctuations in rhythm in volume, reflecting the emotional turbulence that underpinned the track’s conception. Speaking about ‘Over Again’, lead vocalist Jen says: “This song was as difficult to write as it is to describe – it is a deeply introspective and personal look at my doubts and fears in the face of a pure love, and trying to decipher whether or not these thoughts are worth paying heed to or are just a normal part of relationships”. (KC)

Misty Coast – ‘Hallucinating’
I love this warm, hazy new track from Norwegian psych-pop duo Misty Coast. Formed of Linn Frøkedal and Richard Myklebust (from noise-rock outfit The Megaphonic Thrift), together they blend soft vocals with breezy synths and riffs to create their melodic musings. “‘Hallucinating’ is about trying to filter out what’s real in a chaos of noise and dopamine factories competing for your attention,” the band explain, “When the unrest and distractions become so overwhelming that you can no longer think your own thoughts, it’s time to hit the brakes.” (KC)

Dayydream – ‘Proximity’
Glasgow-based independent artist Chloe Trappes aka dayydream is gearing up to release her new EP, Trace, on 13th March. The follow up to her 2022 debut Bittersweet, the five track EP traces Chloe’s development as a songwriter and as a young adult, informed by a strong sense of nostalgia. This single ‘Proximity’ is a fitting introduction to her softer sound. Backed by a full band, she articulates sentiments about coming-of-age beautifully. (KC)

Leonor Arnaut – ‘Avé, Raposa’
Following her hypnotic debut single ‘Vida Cega’, Portuguese artist Leonor Arnaut has now returned to grace our ears with a stirring new offering. Made in LA under the mentorship and production assistance of Julia Holter and exploring themes of choice and desire, drawing on the possible symbolism of the fox in Phoebe Waller-Bridge’s series ‘Fleabag’, ‘Avé, Raposa’ ripples with an effervescent swirling majesty as Arnaut’s beautifully rich, celestial vocals soar. An exquisite insight into what to expect from this innovative new artist. (ML)

Montauk Hotel – ‘Never Quiet’
A melodic exploration of sensory overload in a chaotic world, ‘Never Quiet’ is the latest single from Dublin-based band Montauk Hotel. Through their considered lyricism and buoyant dream-pop riffs, the band extrapolate on the feelings of alienation that come from “living in a loud world where technology and political agendas distract from empathy and truth.” Recorded by the band in their home studio and mixed by Ryan McGroarty from Beauty Sleep, ‘Never Quiet’ gently distracts listeners from these overwhelming thoughts. (KC)

Sister Ghost – ‘Not Your Toy’
Having been a big fan of Northern Irish DIY rocker Shannon Delores O’Neill – aka Sister Ghost – for a number of years now, we’re super excited that she’s set to release a brand new EP this Spring. Taken from the EP, recorded in LA alongside producer Brad Wood (Liz Phair, Veruca Salt, Smashing Pumpkins, Placebo) and drummer Jeff Friedl (A Perfect Circle, DEVO), new single ‘Not Your Toy’ offers an empowering ode to survivors of coercive control whilst showcasing O’Neill’s seething, soaring power. Reflecting on the track, she explains: “Whilst it’s sadly very likely to be the case that many listeners will also identify with the subject matter, it’s my sincere hope that by being vocal about it we can help call out these coercive behaviours and reclaim our collective power.” (ML)

No Drama – ‘Doorstep’
This cathartic track from Toulouse-based indie punks No Drama is inspired by the brevity and in-continuity of relationships. It’s taken from their new EP, Isolated Areas, which is set for release on 6th March via Hidden Bay Records. Together, Christèle Gaye (drums), Manon Raupp (guitars, vocals, bass) and Daniel Selig (guitars, vocals) create loud, commanding alt-anthems that help to relieve the pressure of the grind of everyday life. (KC)

 

Shallow Honey – ‘The Bear’
Recently blowing us away with their fierce charisma and playful charm when playing live at The Waiting Room last month, Sussex band Shallow Honey have now released a raging new single. Released as an ‘anti-valentines’ anthem, ‘The Bear’ offers a gritty reflection on those men who became inexplicably furious and defensive over the conversation meant to highlight the safety issues faced by women and girls. An incredibly resonant and necessary subject right now, the track showcases the band’s ability to combine their trademark tongue-in-cheek wit with a ferocious riot grrrl-inspired energy. (ML)

Pondlife – ‘Cello’
Having just announced the release of a new EP later this year, London slacker rockers Pondlife have now shared title track ‘Cello’. Propelled by scuzzy hooks and swirling atmospherics, it’ll draw you in with a wistful allure, offering a hazy insight into the band’s shoegaze tinged soundscapes. (ML)

K Maybe – ‘Skin Hungry’
The latest single from Surrey band K Maybe, ‘Skin Hungry’ reflects on feelings of loneliness and that longing for human touch with a driving, relentless energy. As screaming guitars are juxtaposed with the delicate sense of melancholy that oozes through the lyrics, it offers an instantly catchy slice of stirring alt-rock. (ML)

Frances Murray – ‘Adults’
Essex-born, Brighton-based musician and producer Frances Murray – who used to go by the name BLAB – is back with brand new music! This single ‘Adults’ is taken from her upcoming debut solo album, Dreamer, which she’ll be self-releasing on 10th April. It’s a witty take on her “quarter life crisis” – something anyone over the age of 25 can definitely relate to. (KC)

 

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