INTERVIEW: F*Choir Celebrate 10 Years

We’ve been huge fans of London based queer collective F*Choir for as long as we can remember; it feels like they’ve been a part of our souls before we even knew about them, and their deeply immersive and interactive performances have had a consistently moving and powerful effect on us over the years. 

Celebrating a decade of existence, we wanted to take some time to honour the truly special, life-affirming sense of resistance they’ve built over the last ten years and their ability to create and recreate art that is hugely enlivening and electrifying. Not only a choir, but a community, F*Choir have offered a cathartic space for all who’ve been involved – whether on the stage with them, or watching and listening from across the room. They’ve continued to evolve with the changing times, reflecting the political, physical, spiritual and emotional identities of its members, providing a beautiful and necessary platform for both the euphoria and the grief that the queer community have experienced.

Having also celebrated our 10th birthday last year, at Get In Her Ears we feel a certain affinity with F*Choir and understand the work, time, stress and joy that can go into putting your heart and soul into a creative project. We’ve been lucky enough to host events with them, and various individual members of the collective (including Rubie and Jenny Moore’s other projects, punk-percussion outfit Charismatic Megafauna and her six piece ensemble Jenny Moore’s Mystic Business), as well as attend many of their other shows, and so have been able to experience first hand the all-encompassing, empowering energy and majestic captivating grace that exudes from each of their performances. 

Rooted in the firm belief that “music has the power to change us and remake the world”, F*Choir use music to stay connected, to life and to each other. It is exploration, hope, possibility. It’s hard work. It’s saying, “you have got the strength”. And, with their urgent, melodic, driving songs that sit somewhere between fight for your life and lay down your guard sentiments, they offer a commitment to rhythm, movement, self-expression and salty harmonies. An F*Choir song is both personal and political, it’s a vessel for stories and collective liberation. 

Ahead of what promises to be a career-spanning performance at Earth in Hackney on 25th October, Tash spoke to Jenny (Founding and Artistic Director) and Bianca (Assistant Choir Leader) about the project’s beginnings, what being in F*Choir has meant to them, their journey together, and what they’re moving onto next… 

Initially conceived by accident from a project that Jenny was working on to create some music for a festival, with the aim of going back to our roots and not using electricity, F*Choir highlights the power of the voice. With no microphones and no other instruments used, what they write and create is raw and direct, as Jenny explains: “People are often surprised we’re not just shouting, feral, scratching, growling, but F*Choir music shows you can growl in 7-part harmony. It’s textured and breathing, belonging to bodies that ache and bend and push themselves towards the sound.”

After putting out a call for people to join her in this unique project, Jenny recruited a number of like-minded creatives at a time when people were really learning how to be together again after the anxieties of Brexit. Having come together for an intense five-hour-long rehearsal, ‘We Want Our Bodies Back’ (previously written by Jenny for another project) was the poignant first song that F*Choir performed together, before she realised that this was not going to be a one-off collaboration, but – due to a misunderstanding in the advertisement – the start of an incredibly huge part of her life for the next decade. It was meant to be.

Speaking about how special it feels to come together to sing and create, Jenny explains that it’s about finding the electricity within ourselves; creating and performing with F*Choir channels an internal energy – a somatic, physical part of ourselves: “Singing reminds you that you are alive when you feel not alive… Singing is this thing – you have to inhale to make the sound and exhale to make the sound, and there’s something about that creates electricity… . It creates this internal engine that makes me feel like I can carry on like a little bit more.”

Bianca’s introduction to F*Choir also seemingly happened by complete accident – she met different members of the choir, including Managing Director Sophie Chapman, whilst on an artist residency in Poland. After being persuaded to join some of their open sessions when back in London, she was instantly hooked: “I remember thinking these people are mad and I think I’m in love with all of them”. Never intending to be part of a choir, she followed the energy – that connected electricity – that oozes from F*Choir, and was completely locked in after seeing Jenny and “absolute goddess” Rubie do an impromptu spontaneous open air rehearsal.

Now, Bianca describes F*Choir as the “spinal chord of my life” – they are each other’s chosen family and provide an expansive musical learning and insight, as well as deep-rooted sense of community. She continues to be impressed by and proud of her peers – the different bands and artists that have come through the F*Choir collective (with examples including Breakup Haircut, Trouble Wanted, Rubie, Zahra Haji Fath Ali Tehrani and more), spreading its roots as it evolves and shapes its members. 

Continuing to reflect on what being in F*Choir means, and the importance of coming together to sing, Jenny describes how emotional, physical and spiritual singing can be; how it helps to build muscle memory: “It builds muscle for individual and collective power, if you let it saturate your actual, physical self.” Highlighting the importance of this collective power, she explains how F*Choir doesn’t happen in a vacuum; it’s a response to what’s happening in both individual people’s lives and in the world as a whole – “... it’s like a performance research site, there’s so much collective experimentation.” It’s both personal and communal – a space where you can bring both your political self and emotional, physical and vulnerable self into one space together, and share it with friends. A combination that is “a total act of bravery and trust”. 

It’s not only the singing that F*Choir do together that contributes to this communal power that they’ve nurtured for the last decade, it’s also the unique sense of community that they’ve built up together. As Bianca explains, as well as choir practice, they come together to discuss and make decisions as a collective – with their ‘Kitchen Table’ sessions, for example, they set an agenda of upcoming tasks and events, and with their ‘Working Forum’ they talk through the importance of issues such as accessibility requirements and the political stance of the venues where they’re planning on performing. All decisions and discussions are collective; a true democracy that seems to be at the heart of what F*Choir do. Any difficulties they encounter, they move through together, as both individuals and as a whole. They recognise the importance of expansive difficult conversations, and how vital these have been to the choir’s longevity.

It therefore seems key that F*Choir use their voices not only to sing, but to express their opinions and make sure these are heard, in a safe space where they are listened to and valued. And, as Jenny says, to have a practice that you return to again and again, where you’re using your voice (whether that’s to sing or speak), is a defiant, political act, especially for queer people. 

When asked to describe how it feels to perform with F*Choir, both Bianca and Jenny’s answers reflect this sense of a duality; there’s not one clear cut feeling or way of being part of the collective. “There’s this feral energy, at the same time as a softness”, Bianca comments. There’s a variety to their performances, two sides to everything they do. “It feels whole”, Jenny continues, “it’s not just sheer pop joy, or deep grief, it’s both sides… It makes an actual shape that’s real and authentic.” And it’s not just the members of the choir that are responsible for creating the energy and atmosphere at the heart of their life-affirming performances, there’s a definite synergy in the room – a huge feedback loop between the audience and the people on the stage. In Jenny’s words, “it’s wizardry”. 

On a personal as well as collective level, F*Choir has meant so much to its members over the last decade. From the beginning, it’s felt totally right, Jenny explains – “it planted a seed in me, something became alight”. Still now, ten years later, it remains a cherished part of her life, and performing with the choir generates a sense of self-love and compassion like nothing else – “When I’m performing with F*Choir, I feel more like myself than I ever am.” Having a cathartic space to grieve and rage in such a joyous and unified space is something truly special; an experience that encompasses the ‘whole’ that Jenny described, reflecting the multifaceted parts of our individual and collective lives in a beautiful and honest way. In the words of the great Robyn, F*Choir has used “sorrow as content, euphoria as form”; it’s created a space where queer and marginalised voices can unite as an empowering ode to our own power and resilience.

So, it may come as a shock that the decision has been made to put F*Choir to rest. “We’ve decided to intentionally compost F*Choir”, Jenny tells us. Continuing the plant-based metaphor, she reflects on what “fertile” ground the choir has created – “…there’s so many things sprouting and growing from it all the time… There’s almost a sense that we’ve outgrown the pot”. Explaining the decision, she tells us that they wanted to be in charge and have agency, to continue moving to their own rhythm; by purposefully drawing things to a close now, F*Choir are able to decide on the shape they’re in, to plan next steps. With both the political landscape and people’s individual lives changing so much over the last decade, members of F*Choir are not the same as they were ten years ago – “I feel that something else is required of us.” Jenny assures us that something else coming, she just doesn’t know what it is yet: “I wanna do something radical – I want to keep going in the way that F*Choir always has been.”

Rather than give in to the capitalist pressure that is put on us, especially as queer people, to keep going as some sort of proof of existence or value, F*Choir wanted to end things together, on purpose, “in the light, and not hide from it”. Jenny emphasises that she’s keen to honour the experience and recognise what everyone who’s ever been a part of F*Choir has achieved – visibly emotional, she reflects on the “collective magical cosmic space” that’s been created: “We’ve made these diamonds and their prisms are shining in all these different directions. We want to be allowed to stand back and look at it.” She’s keen to highlight all the queer and trans artists and composers who F*Choir have not only worked directly with, but who they’ve taken inspiration from and whose songs they’ve re-worked – “I want to point a laser finger at everyone, and highlight how community input is so powerful.”
(Please see a full list of thanks at the bottom of this article.)

Rather than fizzle out, Jenny wants F*Choir to be in charge of its own legacy (unlike so many other female and queer artists over the years), to make its own history rather than for it to be written for them. She wants to continue unearthing practice and discovering new things about F*Choir, as she has done for the last decade. “I’ve never been so humbled as I have been in this role”, she shares, but she feels strongly that now is the right time to walk away from it, as – despite being a Scorpio – she finally trusts in it. She’s learnt that there are phenomenal, world-building artists everywhere, and feels confident that the next generation will be able to stand on the shoulders of what F*Choir have created. 

But, in true F*Choir style, they are not going out without a bang! As well as the huge celebration of their decade of existence at Earth on 25th October, they will also be releasing their first (and only!) album later in the year. Recorded at RAK studios with sound engineer Joy Stacey, and assisted by Alfie Scott, it features most of the choir’s 60+ ensemble singing tunes from a range of artists they truly treasure – female, queer and trans, black and brown musicians that they want to platform and celebrate. “I guess you could say the album is a love letter to them”, Bianca comments, which seems to really sum up a lot of what F*Choir is about; platforming and celebrating each other, lifting each other up and sharing joy with one another through the power of song. 

Full list of artists and musicians that F*Choir wish to send love and thanks to below. 

Join F*Choir in an epic celebration of their 10 years – marking both an end and a new beginning – at Earth in Hackney on 25th October. A range of tickets available here.

F*Choir would like to thank ALL the artists and musicians who’ve ever been involved with the project – those they’ve worked directly with, and those they’ve been inspired by. Including, but not limited to:
Planningtorock
Beverly Glenn Copeland
Rubie
Muna
Jasmine.4.T
Beautiful Chorus
Deep Throat Choir
She Keeps Bees
ABRA
PJ Harvey
Meredith Monk
Wildbirds & Peacedrums
Ibeyi
Lauryn Hill
Kate Nash
Peggy Seeger
Auclair
Anonhi
Robyn
Batya Levine
Dianne Reeves
Inshallah Babes
Tirzah and Micachu
Obinrin Trio
Be Steadwell
JD Samson & MEN
Jade
Mince

They’d also like to thank some of the amazing venues they’ve performed in, such as:
Pie-House Co-op 
Walthamstow Trades Hall 
Hoxton Hall 
(and billions of parks, streets and protests in London where we’ve gathered endlessly and found our beloveds!) 

Photo Credits:
Image outside Moth Club: Sophie Le Roux
Image at Hoxton Hall: Florence Bass



mariangelicalaneLeave a comment

Boudica Music Conference to take place at FOLD in London on 25th November

Founded in 2019 by Samantha Togni, Boudica is a multidisciplinary platform designed to spotlight and support female, trans+ and non-binary people in music. The Boudica Music Conference began in 2020, with previous editions being held at Freemasons’ Hall in London, and at the Museum of Modern Art Bologna (MAMbo).

This year, the conference will take place on 25th November at FOLD, an epicentre of the queer music scene in London. The line up includes Planningtorock, industry experts from Black Artist Database, Southbank Centre, FOLD, DJ Mag, Notting Hill Carnival, BMG, Pxssy Palace and many more.

The conference will take place across a full day and night. Panels will run throughout the day, including industry professionals such NIKS (B.A.D), Planningtorock, Nadine Noor (Pxssy Palace), Adem Holness (Southbank Centre), and Lasha Jorjoliani (FOLD Co-Founder), speaking on topics to support a brighter future in electronic music. Alongside the panels, there will also be a one-to-one Mentorship Hub and a DJ Workshop in collaboration with Pioneer DJ.

These day events will be followed by an after sunset party at FOLD with DJ sets from Blasha & Allatt, LYDO, Lovecat, Samantha Togni and Swan Meat.

Day tickets are available here. Night tickets are available here.

Read below for more information on the full programme of the day-time panel events.

PANEL 1 – BUILDING A SUPPORTIVE WORLD WITHIN THE MUSIC INDUSTRY FOR TRANS+, NON-BINARY AND FEMALE-IDENTIFYING INDIVIDUALS

Host: Vanessa Maria
Panelists: Jaye Ward (DJ), June Lam, Max Blue Churchill (The TCC), Nadine Noor (Pxssy Palace)

In The Jaguar Foundation’s groundbreaking report on gender representation in UK dance music, it was unsurprisingly discovered that gender disparity within the music industry is a persistent issue. Minoritised genders are repeatedly othered, excluded and discriminated against. While there is progress being made, the music industry still has a long way to go in achieving a more equitable representation and treatment of female, trans+ and non-binary individuals. In this panel, the speakers will explore the varied means by which we can build a supportive world within the music industry despite its current ecosystem.

PANEL 2 – BREAKING BARRIERS AND AMPLIFYING EACH OTHER’S VOICES: THE POWER OF COMMUNITY

Host: Steven Braines (He.She.They)
Panelists: Mandidextrous (Speed Bass/ Amen4Teko/ TNT Sound System), Lasha Jorjoliani (FOLD Co-Founder), Linett Kamala (Notting Hill Carnival / Lin Kam Art), NIKS (Black Artist Database)

In recent years, the electronic music landscape has undergone significant changes, driven in part by the widespread adoption of electronic music by Gen Z through platforms like TikTok. This transformation has piqued corporate interest and investment in the industry, leading to a reshaping of its dynamics.

Nonetheless, it is crucial to emphasise the enduring vitality of grassroots and DIY nightlife communities. These spaces have long played a vital role in amplifying the voices of marginalised individuals, demonstrating remarkable resilience and adaptability.

In this panel, the panelists unite to celebrate the strength of community-driven initiatives and explore innovative strategies to address the challenges brought about by corporate involvement. The speakers will offer insights on dismantling barriers, mutually amplifying voices, and preserving the spirit of our communities.

PANEL 3 – AMPLIFYING TRANS+ VOICES IN THE MUSIC INDUSTRY

Host: Āliyah Husna / THEMPRESS (Good Night Out/Riposte)
Panellists: I. JORDAN, Planningtorock, Teecra (FOLD)

In light of current circumstances and the increasingly heightened challenges faced by Trans+ individuals within the music industry, we’re announcing an emergency Trans+ panel. This initiative is a direct response to the urgent issues and adversity Trans+ people are enduring in the current climate. It’s crucial that we shine a spotlight on these concerns and engage in meaningful discussions within the music industry.

Trans+ individuals are encountering a troubling surge in hate crimes, physical assaults, and political and media scapegoating. This alarming trend demands our immediate attention and action. Music, as a potent cultural force, cannot remain indifferent to the struggles faced by its own community members.

Our panel is steadfast in providing a platform where these critical issues can be openly and constructively discussed by Trans+ people. We are committed to fostering a nurturing environment that acknowledges the unique challenges faced by Trans+ individuals and are actively seeking solutions that can be acted on.

Now more than ever it’s essential for people to become adept at addressing transphobia head-on. Equipping individuals with the language and tools to engage in these conversations is pivotal for driving change, promoting inclusivity, and firmly standing against discrimination.

By addressing these concerns within the context of music, we aim to amplify the voices of Trans+ individuals and inspire positive transformation in the industry. We invite everyone to participate in this vital conversation and collective effort to establish a safer and more inclusive music community for all.

PANEL 4 – LGBTQIA+ REPRESENTATION IN THE MUSIC INDUSTRY: CHALLENGES AND TRIUMPHS

Host: TBC
Panelists: Manuka Honey (SUZIO / Woo), Rhona Ezuma (THIIIRD Magazine), Saskhia Menendez (UME/ Artist Manager/ MMF Member/ Keychange), Steven Braines (he.she.they)

Across history, the LGBTQIA+ community has always altered the music’s trajectory for the better, pioneering new sounds, genres and essential cultural movements that pave the way for positive change. Yet simultaneously, trailblazing LGBTQIA+ music industry professionals have been sidelined, as mainstream society capitalises on certain elements of the LGBTQIA+ aesthetic while disregarding aspects they consider too unconventional or politically charged. This panel will examine the multitude of experiences faced by LGBTQIA+ people working within the music industry, exploring the difficulties, successes and means by which we can make music a safer, representational and inclusive space for all identities.

PANEL 5 – WORKING TOWARDS A BRIGHTER FUTURE IN THE MUSIC INDUSTRY
CO-HOSTED BY MUSICIANS’ UNION

Host: John Shortell (Musicians’ Union)
Panelists: Adem Holness (Head Of Contermporary Music Southbank), Emma Wiggin (Westwick Management), Farah Syed Farah Syed (Director, Communications, amp Sound Branding / Co-Chair AFEM), Marcus Barnes (Happy Tuesdays/ The Guardian)

In recent years, the music industry has frequently highlighted the importance of ‘safe spaces,’ ‘inclusivity,’ and ‘diversity.’ However, there is often a disconnect between these ideals and their actual implementation by organisations, brands, and promoters. All too often, these concepts are used as empty buzzwords, lacking real substance and accountability, especially for marginalised communities.

In this panel, the speakers will engage in a thoughtful discussion on how we can foster welcoming workplaces, nightlife settings, and opportunities, even in the presence of systemic challenges and oppression. The aim is to explore practical ways to create genuinely supportive and accessible environments for everyone.

 

Boudica Music Conference is supported by Arts Council England, Downtown Music, Musicians’ Union, Pioneer DJ and Resident Advisor

Follow Boudica on Instagram, Facebook and bandcamp

Kate CrudgingtonLeave a comment

PLAYLIST: Trans Pride 2023

Although we support and promote the queer community all year round at GIHE, we acknowledge Pride as a chance to celebrate LGBTQI+ joy and achievements, how far we’ve come, as well as a protest and the need to continue to push for acceptance. With this in mind, this year it felt more resonant than ever to highlight the Trans community. At a time when their rights are being further questioned and curtailed, we want to not only show our support and draw attention to the need for change, but to celebrate Trans Joy and creativity. Our co-founder Tash Walker expands:

We can’t ignore what is happening in the world right now when it comes to trans rights and inclusion, right the way down to our younger trans siblings. As public support for trans people feels ever questioned here in the UK, at Get In Her Ears we want to create a space that centres TRANS JOY in all its beauty, through the music we play. It can be so easy for our ears to focus on the hate and transphobia, but a moment to turn the volume up on the joy is so powerful and when you look for it, it’s everywhere. 

Only four months ago, when I was at the Brihanna Ghey vigil E J Scott a trans archivist was handing out packets of sweets, and saying “have a little bit of trans joy”. Recently I was interviewing Professor Stephen Whittle (co-founder of Press for Change who lobbied the Govt to bring about the Gender Recognition Act) – during that interview, I asked him what joy meant to him and he said “I feel trans joy, I really do” and it made us both smile so much. 

So let’s focus on and create the space to include trans voices because the global and UK negativity is so loud, but joy is always louder and lasts longer.  One of the biggest forms of ‘activism’ is to live your life as yourself (if you feel safe to do so), so we want to uplift and create a space for us to hear trans people and their joy. Hear that not only is there such a thing as trans joy but that if we all listen, as a society, push back to make that space bigger and bigger, until it becomes a part of all of our lives through acceptance and liberation, it will bring us all joy too. 

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 transgender and gender non-conforming communities. So wherever you are, at whatever Pride you are supporting this summer, spread the word and make it known – equality is for everyone, but most importantly, trans lives matter, trans kids deserve to be trans adults. No-one is equal until we are all equal.

Our 2023 Pride playlist includes tracks by some of our favourite trans, non binary and queer artists, as well as a few songs voicing support/rage on their behalf. Read about our choices below, and then hit play for the perfect soundtrack for London Trans Pride weekend!

 

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. (Tash Walker)

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. (TW)

Shea Diamond – ‘I Am Her’
As early as transgender singer Shea Diamond can remember, she identified as a girl – and was punished for it. At age 20, she robbed a convenience store at gunpoint – desperate, she says, to fund her gender-affirming surgery. Behind bars (in a male prison), Diamond found her voice as a songwriter, and wrote this track ‘I Am Her’. I just love its poignant, soulful groove. (Mari Lane)

Beverly Glenn-Copeland – ‘Africa Calling‘
I have always loved Beverly’s music and I am so excited for their forthcoming album, this is the first new music we’ve had from them in 20 years. He is such an incredibly talented artist, a true icon. A Black trans electronic music pioneer! (TW)

Le Tigre – ‘Viz’
I can’t really put into words how life-affirmingly wonderful it was to see Le Tigre live at the Troxy last month, so I’ll leave my general gushing about that to another time. However, a particularly special moment of their set was JD Samson singing this – calling on queers of every kind to dance / march / rage in joyous unity to raise visibility, so that everyone can be free to live life as their true selves. (ML)

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)

Planningtorock – ‘Transome’
I have Tash to thank for introducing me to the sounds of Planningtorock. Watching them perform songs from their Powerhouse album at Southbank Centre back in 2019 was such a joyful and moving affair. Tash & I even joined in the stage invasion! This track ‘Transome’ is a total bop. It’s a sultry, playful celebration of what it’s like to truly be feeling yourself, and that’s what Pride is all about. (Kate Crudgington)

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)

HUSK – ‘Let’s Get Married’
The latest single from Manchester based trans masculine non-binary artist Husk, ‘Let’s Get Married’ offers a synth-soaked anthem, oozing a joyous groove and colourful uplifting allure. In HUSK’s own words, it’s a “sickly sweet, tongue-in-cheek tale ripped straight from a rom-com storyline of being hopelessly, head over heels in obsession after ‘all of 3 days’ of meeting your new one-true-love.” Donate to their top surgery revision fundraiser here.(ML)

Tokky Horror – ‘Toilet’
Electro punks Tokky Horror have a reputation for being a TOTAL force of nature when they perform live, and they’re dedicated to creating safe spaces to mosh for women and LGBTQ+ folks at their gigs. This track ‘Toilet’ is a blend of drum & bass beats, manic riffs and surprisingly vulnerable lyrics, inspired by producer Zee’s own experiences of finding their feet within queer activist scenes in music and further afield. (KC)

The Crystal Furs – ‘Gay Bar’
A catchy rendition of the Electric Six classic by Pacific Northwest queer indie poppers The Crystal Furs. Described by the band as a ‘sapphic tale of lust’, it’s the perfect addition to any dancefloor! (ML)

Touch Excellent – ‘Record’
This tenacious anthem from Touch Excellent takes aim at the failures of the healthcare system when it comes to treating women, non-binary and transgender folks. Fuelled by the Dublin-based band’s collective anger and own experiences, the track is a brief but powerful blast of attention-grabbing pop punk noise. Playfully self-describing themselves as “Ireland’s most transgender band (surely)”, Touch Excellent create raw, frenzied, politically-driven cacophonies that are designed to dismantle the systems that oppress us. (KC)

Chroma – ‘Woman To Woman’
An impassioned call to arms in support of all people of minority genders, I can’t get enough of Welsh rockers Chroma’s immense, fierce energy. Calling out those who call themselves feminists whilst actively oppressing others, it blasts out the poignant message that “Trans Women Are Women” with a searing urgency. I can’t wait for Chroma to headline for us on 8th September at Shacklewell Arms – catch them live before they hit the stadium opening for Foo Fighters next year! Tickets here. (ML)

Problem Patterns – ‘Terfs Out’
“LGB is nothing if not for the T / So show up with some real solidarity” – Belfast Riot Grrrls Problem Patterns hitting the nail on the head with this total punk banger. We love everything that the band represent and how vocal they are about supporting the LGBTQ+ community. Their most recent single ‘Letter Of Resignation‘ is all about celebrating queer joy and ally-ship, too. I can’t wait to hear both these tracks live again when Problem Patterns headline for us on Friday 17th November at the Sebright Arms. Grab a ticket here (KC)

Trap Girl – ‘Diva’s Inferno’ 
Fresh from signing to Kill Rock Stars, LA punks Trap Girl have just announced the release of their upcoming new EP, Diva’s Inferno – out on 14th July. Intent on bringing “visibility to what it is to be trans, big, brown and glamorous” (Candace Hanson, Razorcake Magazine), Trap Girl offer perfectly powerful raging anthems with an impassioned queer energy. Listen to the EP’s title track here (it’s only on Bandcamp, so we’ve included 2020 single ‘Transwomen and Chokeholds’ on our Spotify playlist). (ML)

Petrol Girls – ‘Fight For Our Lives’
Featuring inspirational activist and DIY punk Janey Starling, ‘Fight For Our Lives’ offers a resonant call to arms to reclaim control over our own bodies and unite in coming together to fight against the confines and dangers of this damaging patriarchal society and create a safer world for all marginalised groups. A raging cacophony fuelled by a riotous catharsis – as with every track on last year’s Baby album, it’s an utterly necessary listen from Petrol Girls. (ML)

Jemma Freeman & The Cosmic Something – ‘Huge’
Channelling the mindset of a child with ADHD, trying to make sense of a locked down world, ‘Huge’ is propelled by a chaotic energy, rippling with fizzing hooks as the swirling power of Jemma’s truly distinctive vocals soars. Building with a sparkling psychedelic allure to an immense, colourful cacophony, it showcases the raw emotive majesty that this innovative artist is able to create. (ML)

Ezra Furman – ‘Forever Sunset’
Taken from last year’s All Of Us In Flames album, this track exudes such a delicate grace and beautifully raw emotion that it gives me goosebumps on each listen. Coming out as a trans woman in 2021, Ezra Furman shared a picture of herself with her child, with the accompanying 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)

Bitch Hunt – ‘Identity Clinic’
It’s no secret that I’ve been a super fan girl of First Timers alumni Bitch Hunt for a few years now – I just can’t get enough of their gently empowering, cathartic energy and scuzzy punk-pop. This track seems particularly poignant right now, as trans youth are faced with increasingly long waiting times to access the healthcare and support that they urgently need. (ML)

Um Jennifer? – ‘Girl Class’
The brand new single from NYC duo (and fantastically named) Um Jennifer?, ‘Girl Class’ is a perfect slice of fuzzy lo-fi punk-pop. Of the track, they explain: “‘Girl Class’ was born out of craving community within trans girlhood. It’s about unbecoming and becoming; being molded by expectations of femininity. Ultimately, it’s the realisation that despite the noise, there is no one way to be a girl.” (ML)

Ethel Cain – ‘American Teenager’
This euphoric pop gem from Ethel Cain sits in contrast with her darker, more cinematic sounds, but I still love it. She’s such a sophisticated, altruistic storyteller, something which is perfectly showcased on her debut album Preacher’s Daughter. Everyone needs a bit of Ethel Cain in their lives. (KC)

Nina Keith – ‘Blow Up Yr Life (U Need To)’
A comforting, gentle reminder to let go of negativity and doubt, I love this soundscape from LA-based trans artist, producer and composer Nina Keith. Featuring the vocals of indie pop artist Barrie and composer and musician Qur’an Shaheed,  ‘Blow Up Yr Life (U Need To)’ is a considered, delicate blend of lilting electronics, fragmented voices and crisp production, all of which melt together to create an exquisite, emotive listening experience. “Lately the more I wear the turmoil of my life on my sleeve the more often I find myself in conversations with strangers and loved ones that reach a similar end,” Keith explains about the context of her track. “This song is sort of a small prayer in lieu of words I can never seem to speak in those moments. Divorce your husband, start an onlyfans, borrow friend’s hormones, take them for fun, sell your stuff, buy rare beanie babies with the money, whatever you have to do. There is only so much time left.” Love it! (KC)

Chuck SJ – ‘F2shapeless’ 
Chuck SJ and their full band The Rose Quartz Rebellion played for us supporting pink suits at The Shacklewell Arms last month, and it really was such an honour to host them. Uniting the crowd in a sense of euphoric queer joy, the set reflected on themes of Transness and finding your place in the world with a deep cathartic energy. This track stood out as particularly poignant – just listen to it for yourself and you’ll see what I mean. Truly heart achingly beautiful. (ML)

Anohni – It Must Change
‘It Must Change’, the beautiful first single from ANOHNI’s sixth studio album – a statement that we all should listen to in light of what is happening in the world, but specifically here in the UK when it comes to trans rights. Anohni has released this song under Anohni and the Johnsons, a nod to the origins of her music, the band named after LGBTQ+ rights activist and pioneer Marsha P Johnson. ‘It Must Change’ is a song with hope embedded for a better future. (TW)

Listen to our Pride Playlist below!

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

 

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PLAYLIST: June 2022

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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