PLAYLIST: July 2026

The Get In Her Ears team have put together another eclectic mix of new music tunes for your listening pleasure! Our July Playlist features plenty of shoegaze, grunge & dream-pop riffs, punk anthems, indie musings, emotive ballads and some experimental and electronic soundscapes too. Make sure you scroll through and read all about our recommendations below. Happy listening!

As you already know, 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 or 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. 

CLICK HERE TO LISTEN (TIDAL)

 

Twat Union – ‘TV BIKINY’
Having been a big fan of ‘feminist-feral-theatre-punks’ Twat Union for a while now, finally getting to see their wonderfully chaotic energy live at The Great Escape this year was perhaps my highlight of the festival (along with hosting our very own stage that fellow Alcopop! signees Problem Patterns headlined!). Maintaining their trademark ability to combine resonant critique on patriarchal society with a playful tongue-in-cheek attitude, the band’s new single ‘TV Bikiny’ offers a perfectly empowering alternative summer anthem. A joyous ode to doing absolutely nothing, it’s propelled by all the swirling frenzied hooks and wry, relatable lyricism that we’ve come to know and love from the band – “I don’t want to go outside, I want to stay right here and sweat from my thighs”. Catch Twat Union live (an experience like no other!) for a special joint headline show with Problem Patterns at The Lexington on 10th October.
(Mari Lane – Managing Editor)

Perennial – ‘Modernism’
I remember being told by some friends who got to see New England’s Perennial live when they were last in the UK that it was one of the best shows they’d ever seen. The band’s chaotic frenzied energy was unmatched and the way they interacted with the crowd whilst delivering their immense mod-rock anthems was unlike anything they’d seen before. So, I am extremely excited that we’re going to have them playing for us in October! Come and experience this one-of-a-kind live show for yourself at A L P H A B E T in Brighton on 9th October, along with jangly indie-pop faves Sassyhiya and more TBA. Tickets are on DICE now and they’re cheaper in advance. In the meantime, listen to latest single ‘Modernism’ (and all their back catalogue from the last few years) and get your dancing shoes ready. (ML)

Cusk – ‘Dooms banjo’
Esmé Creed-Miles and Evie Hilyer-Ziegler formed their band Cusk right here in London shortly after meeting at an improv night at cult music venue The Shacklewell Arms. I’ve only just discovered them, but the pair have been busy gigging around the city for the past few years, supporting the likes of DIIV, Geordie Greep and Tiberius B. Now, they’re gearing up to release their new self-titled EP, which is due on the 14th of August via The Bird Records. ‘Dooms banjo’ features on the EP, and credit where credit is due, not only is it an excellent track name, it’s also an urgent rush of heavy riffs and intense, brooding vocals. Cusk will be playing a live show at The Shacklewell Arms on 27th August, where you can hear ‘Dooms banjo’ and more of their stirring sounds in the flesh.
(Kate Crudgington – Features Editor)

Slothrust – ‘Ring The Bell’
Having been a huge fan of Slothrust for years (I think seeing them live in New York back in 2022 may have been the best gig I’ve ever been to), I’ve been super excited to hear they’ve got a new album coming out in September. Ahead of the album, and following recent single ‘Burn The Deck’, ‘Ring The Bell’ showcases all the swirling, immersive allure and fierce scuzzy energy that I’ve come to love so much from the LA band, whilst oozing an underlying dark sense of urgency. Lyrically, it reflects the main theme of the album as a whole: what it means to be human and live in a system designed to exploit our perceived weaknesses by means of capitalism. A perfect slice of ‘Dystopian Theatre Rock’. What They Grow In The Garden, the new album from Slothrust, is set for release on 18th September via Equal Vision Records. (ML)

That Old Quiet Lighthouse – ‘Hands Up’
Featuring Phoenix Rousiamani (Lucy Dacus, Jasmine.4.T), ‘Hands Up’ is the latest single from Manchester-based ‘indie-emo-folk’ band That Old Quiet Lighthouse. An instantly catchy anthem, it combines philosophical musings with a more tongue-in-cheek chorus; fusing together the raw honesty of early noughties American emo with a very British sense of humour and playful energy. Of the meaning behind some of the lyrics, Rousiamani explains: “… I underline the anxiety that comes with striving for conforming beauty, that is rooted in eugenics, homogeneity and smoothness. Instead I try to find a rawer and deeper beauty that is more accepting of our humanity.” (ML)

Roomer – ‘Good On My Own’
A slow-burning offering from Berlin-based dream-rock outfit Roomer here. ‘Good On My Own’ is taken from the band’s upcoming second album, Staircase Made of Rope, set for release on 18th September via Squama Recordings. The track gently explores an emotional inner conflict, through soft vocals, earnest lyricism and evocative use of reverb. “[It’s] a reflection of outgrowing the words that once felt like certainty, and the ones that prolonged goodbye,” Roomer explain. “It’s about learning to be at peace with yourself, even while feeling the quiet pull of something that might be missing.” (KC)

Celeste Madden – ‘Millennium’
A recent discovery of mine who I’m not quite sure how I hadn’t come across before, South London’s Celeste Madden creates heartfelt indie-pop soaked in a gloriously scuzzy haze – my favourite. A breakup song for people too stubborn to let go, ‘Millenium’ showcases Madden’s beautifully glistening raw emotion perfectly. I can’t wait for them to play for us at The Cavendish Arms on 10th September, supporting Gabi Garbutt with The JuOh. Tickets are on DICE now and they’re cheaper in advance! (ML)

atmos bloom – ‘It’s Enough’
I remember being impressed by the lush sounds of atmos bloom when I saw them play live at Brixton’s Hootananny, sharing a bill with faves Whitelands back in 2025. I’m a sucker for dream-pop riffs and floaty vocals, which the duo are well versed in. This track ‘It’s Enough’ is lifted from their new album, Everythingness, which they recently released via Spirit Goth records. It explores “themes of soft power and being enough for other’s demands and expectations”. (KC)

Grandmas House – ‘Blue Oblivion’
Not only is this single from GIHE faves Grandmas House one of their strongest tracks to date, it’s also accompanied by an beautifully shot, atmospheric video. ‘Blue Oblivion’ is lifted from the Bristol band’s debut album, Baby You’re A Winner, which is due on 21st August via Brace Yourself Records. It’s a disarming offering, showcasing the strength and development of the band’s songwriting, perfectly executing the quiet-to-loud dynamic which reflect the themes of “light and dark” that inspired both the conception of ‘Blue Oblivion’ and the entire upcoming album. Alongside the release, Grandmas House have also shared details of a tour of UK record stores this year, kicking off in London at Kingston’s Banquet Records on the 21st of August, and culminating in a hometown in-store at Rough Trade in Bristol on the 27th. The band have also announced a free entry listening party on July 31st at Bristol Beer Factory, which will feature limited edition Grandmas House beer cans, Grandmas House x Pizzarova specials, ‘Spin the Wheel’ prizes and the chance to meet the band’s mascot, The Headless Man from the ‘Blue Oblivion’ video, in person. RSVP here. (KC)

The Big Moon – ‘Gravity’
I was chuffed to see The Big Moon are back with brand new music, having been a fan since I caught them playing live at The Great Escape Festival all the way back in 2016! The four-piece are now gearing up for the release of their new album, Forever, which is due on 30th October via Fiction Records, and for their UK tour later this year, including their biggest headline show to date at the iconic O2 Academy Brixton on Friday 27th November. This single ‘Gravity’ is a buoyant, thoughtful offering from The Big Moon, who are masters at harnessing the joy of life’s meaningful moments (whether they’re big or small) and turning them into indie-pop earworms. Songwriter Juliette Jackson shares more about the track’s inception: “At the time I wrote this song, every time I collected my son from nursery he would run and slam into me and give me the biggest hug. I knew it wouldn’t last forever, and I savoured every one, and this song ended up commemorating that feeling. It’s about a love that you’re never really separated from, just elasticated, ready to snap back together.” (KC)

Catherine Moan – ‘Fabric’
Congratulations to LA-based artist Catherine Moan on the release of her lush new album, CM Ultra. Released via Born Losers Records earlier this month, it’s a heady collection of emotive synth-pop gems, including this latest single ‘Fabric’, a song about “clothing & heartbreak” as well as a desire for change and acceptance on a deeper level. Catherine explains these concepts in more detail: “Love and happiness can recede slowly like a sweater shrinking in the dryer or a hole in a shirt turning into a tear. And as we grow and change like a shirt too small, some things just won’t fit anymore. And fighting change, and trying to force yourself into clothing that doesn’t fit will only damage the model or attire. Existing outside of the gender binary makes it extremely difficult to know where you fit romantically and physically in society, and clothing and outward expression becomes highly significant. To most people the fabric they wear daily is trivial, but to me clothing is political, it signifies your role and place in society.” (KC)

Lido Pimienta – ‘Marea’
I vividly remember interviewing the marvellous Lido Pimienta back in 2020 about her superb album, Miss Colombia. The award-winning Colombian-born artist was such an inspiring and bright presence, so I’m excited to see that she’s now shared her fourth album, Caribenya, with the world. The record’s title is a combination of the words “Caribe” – a nod to Pimienta’s love of the Caribbean and her anti-colonial concerns – and “Enya” – a nod to the Irish singer who Pimienta listens to in order to concentrate while writing. It’s an album that addresses both the political and the personal, but it is also a joyful form of resistance, in which she provides listeners with dancing beats and pop-inspired melodies to counteract the harsh reality and injustices she sees in everyday life. On this track ‘Marea’, Pimienta explores themes of desire, love, and money from the perspective of a young woman who must hustle and sell herself to provide for her family. (KC)

MARiMARi – ‘POP SHUVIT!’
Last month I featured Maripool and now I’m featuring MARiMARi – very different artists, both with a name that really grabbed my attention… No idea why! My narcissistic fondness for her name aside, Liverpool-based hyper-pop artist MARiMARi creates danceably uplifting anthems propelled by a zestful colourful energy and glitchy beats. ‘POP SHUVIT!’ is taken from the (also brilliantly named) debut mini album, MARi Go Round. If you’re at Y Not Festival this weekend, be sure to catch MARiMARi live, I get the feeling it will be a lot of fun! (ML)

Gay Animal – ‘I’m a Gay Animal’
A defiant and incredibly catchy dance anthem that gleefully celebrates queer identity, I couldn’t resist adding this track from Austrian-born, non-binary artist Gay Animal to our July Playlist. Through their music and performance, they “engage with the theme of Queer Ecology”, using their creative processes to “open up conversations about gender and queerness from a more-than-human perspective.” Whether you’re part of the LGBTQ+ community or an ally, you can easily indulge yourself in the big beats and vibes of Gay Animal! (KC)

Black Bananas – ‘Turkey Burgers’
‘Turkey Burgers’ is the latest single from cult art-rockers Black Bananas and their first release in over 10 years! It’s taken from the band’s new album, Bad Bunch, which is set for release on 4th September via Fire Records. It’s a trippy, groove-infused blend of synths, riffs and vocals that drifts beautifully between the ears for five whole minutes. (KC)

Void Queen – ‘Power Sip’
Newly signed to Duchess Box Records (Grandmas House, Agatha is Dead!), Berlin punks Void Queen have shared this cathartic new single ‘Power Sip’. With their heavy riffs and direct lyricism, the band try to capture “the urge to transform the ordinary into something extraordinary, even at the cost of losing yourself in the process”, exploring the grey area between illusion and reality in the process. (KC)

Superfriends – ‘Moths’
Set to release their debut album, King Of The Moths, on 28th August, Brighton indie-punks Superfriends have now shared new single ‘Moths’. Showcasing the band’s tendency to wear their feelings on their sleeve, it offers a perfect example of their scuzzy, emo-tinged anthems about the chaos of everyday life, and both the anxiety and joy that can result from this. We can’t wait for Superfriends to support Fightmilk at The Pipeline in Brighton on 14th August. Tickets are on DICE now and they’re cheaper in advance! (ML)

 

Amelia & The Housewives – ‘Narcissist’
A perfect slice of jangly indie-pop, ‘Narcissist’ is the new single from Brighton ones to watch Amelia & The Housewives. Juxtaposing honey-sweet sparkling melodies with a dry, relatable lyricism, it flows with hints of uptempo ‘60s pop whilst maintaining a gloriously fresh energy. The eponymous debut album from Amelia & The Housewives is out on 2nd October via INH Records (who fast seem to be signing all our favourite bands!) (ML)

Run Remedy – ‘Dissent’
Manchester-based, New Jersey-born Run Remedy’s a brand new favourite of mine who I recently came across through a mutual acquaintance and then we both came to the conclusion that we should have already been pals. Always a nice realisation to have, and even nicer when you realise they have a gorgeous new song coming out. Flowing with delicate strummed hooks and rich melancholic vocals, ‘Dissent’ offers a reflection on those moments where being right outweighs the need to be kind, building with intricate sonic layers and a rippling emotional intensity to a subtly scathing dedication to someone you disagree with. Not At The Table, the new EP from Run Remedy, is out on 11th September. (ML)

Weather Happy – ‘It Leaks Out’
The brand new project from Holly from Berries, Weather Happy is the new rock duo you’ve been waiting for. Formed of Holly on guitar and vocals and childhood friend Harry on drums, they played their debut live show a couple of weeks back to a huge, adoring crowd at The Grace and instantly cemented themselves firmly as here to stay. Platforming Holly’s distinctive songwriting style and seemingly effortless mega riff-creating with Harry’s fierce spiky beats, ‘It Leaks Out’ combines a subtle vulnerability in openly discussing mental health struggles whilst offering a striking, empowering energy. (ML)

Skint Knees – ‘Honey Badger’
Self-described as “your favourite Sheffield girl gang best friends tearing down the patriarchy with riffs, riots and fun facts”, Riot Grrrl trio Skint Knees are a sonic force to be reckoned with. They channel their “anger, joy and defiance” into their politically charged punk anthems, with this track ‘Honey Badger’ tackling themes of stalking and misogyny from “nice guys”. The song is accompanied by a music video which perfectly showcases the band’s raw live energy and playful sense of humour too. (KC)

GRAVE GOODS – ‘REMAINS’
I remember having a great chat with post-punks GRAVE GOODS for our GIHE radio show back in 2020 (listen here), so I was pleased to see their name pop up in my inbox again sharing new music. Following on from their 2022 debut album, Tuesday. Nothing Exists., they’ve now returned as a duo – Lois Macdonald (Guitar/vocals) and Sarah Grimes (drums/vocals) – with this distinctive new single ‘REMAINS’. The multi-instrumentalists embraced their experimental tendencies during the writing and recording of this track, which explores the constant unease of contemporary existence. The single is also accompanied by a sci-fi inspired video, directed and designed by Lois, complimenting the track’s themes of surrealism. (KC)

POMELO – ‘Nasty Sauce’
This is an evocative soundscape from Amsterdam-based art-pop duo POMELO, lifted from their debut album, LORELESS. Described as a record that urges listeners to pay attention to “where you are and not where you will be”, it’s a captivating listen that showcases the band’s poignant and relatable reflections on the complexities of human existence, and this track ‘Nasty Sauce’ provides a soothing moment for you to do just that. (KC)

LADYBUG 1 ft. Dis Fig – ‘Vanishing’
Long-time musical allies The Bug (Kevin Richard Martin) and Dis Fig (Felicia Chen) have teamed up once again to share this cell-tingling, bass-heavy new offering. Under the moniker of LADYBUG, The Bug has launched a new collaborative series via his own imprint PRESSURE, through which he will work alongside different female vocalists to explore new sonic territory. He kicks off this body of work with LADYBUG 1 and ‘Vanishing’, an immersive, heady track that smoulders with emotional urgency. The track also has four accompanying “alternate” versions that you can sink your teeth into on bandcamp now. (KC)

Million Moths – ‘INNER PIECE’
I love this distinctive, kinetic soundscape from Portland-based dark electronic artist Erica von Trapp aka Million Moths. ‘INNER PIECE’ is lifted from her debut album, spun, and it’s a bewitching blend of acoustic and electronic instrumentation and her clear, intense vocals. The accompanying visuals are just as captivating as the track itself too. Check them out below. (KC)

R Loomes – ‘Passerine’
The magnetic pull of Sheffield-based musician R Loomes’ dark-folk sounds is undeniable. This track ‘Passerine’ showcases her ability to transform her inner musings on the transience of love, time and memory into a beguiling blend of rich vocals and atmospheric riffs. It’s taken from her upcoming debut album, Another Sip, which is set for release on 30th September via Divine Specific. (KC)

Freyja Elsy – ‘Control’
A cinematic, enigmatic offering from Cardiff-based electro-pop artist Freyja Elsy here. ‘Control’ is her rumination on intrusive thoughts, anxiety and emotional overwhelm, which she explores through her questioning lyricism, emotive vocals and tentative, echoing beats. (KC)

Ayanna Witter-Johnson – ‘Pioneers’
“Itʼs an album about finding centre — personally, culturally, and cosmically — and about learning that new roots can be grown even in unfamiliar or fractured ground,” shares acclaimed composer and MOBO-nominee Ayanna Witter-Johnson about her upcoming album, New Roots. Set for release on own imprint Hill and Gully Records on 18th September, the LP is inspired by a plethora of personal and historical influences, including Ayanna’s reflections on her British-Caribbean identity and the inheritance of Windrush-era wisdom, grief and remembrance. This track ‘Pioneers’ is lifted from the album, and it showcases her remarkable talent for pairing infectious melodies alongside her poignant lyrics and considered instrumentation. (KC)

Chelsea Wolfe – ‘Cold’
The inimitable Chelsea Wolfe returns with this deeply emotive new dark ballad ‘Cold’. It’s lifted from her upcoming ninth album, aptly titled The Dark, which is due on August 21st via Loma Vista Recordings. Alongside new co-writer Jennifer Decilveo, Wolfe has created an album that centers around the notion of entering the deepest woods and evolving into the the thing that you fear most to ultimately obtain the bravery and resilience needed to move forwards. ‘Cold’ embodies this process, led by Wolfe’s uniquely powerful voice and stripped-back, compelling blend of keys and guitar. She continues to be a real favourite of mine and her commitment to shape-shifting – both emotionally and sonically – is always deeply impressive. (KC)

Georgia Gets By – ‘Dream For You’
This is a gorgeous, hazy offering from New Zealand-born artist Georgia Nott aka Georgia Gets By. I loved her track ‘Split Lip’ which featured on her 2024 EP of the same name, but this latest offering is lifted from her recently self-released album, Heavy Meadow. Her beautiful voice floats over delicate guitar, slowly developing into a fuller band sound as the track approaches its dreamy conclusion. What a talent. (KC)

Black Bordello – ‘Fugue’
Having previously shared stages with the likes of The Libertines and Goat Girl, London-based international art-rockers Black Bordello are set to release their new EP in September. Ahead of the EP’s release, new single ‘Fugue’ oozes a dark anthemic energy and mystical psychedelic allure. In the band’s words, it’s “a joyful stab into the cardboard cutouts on the set of society’s stage. It’s our gift to music nerds, inspired by Bach.” Midheaven Tempest, the upcoming new EP from Black Bordello, is set for release on 18th September. (ML)

The Schla La Las – ‘Hawaiian’
Having been queens of the indie-tease scene in the mid-2000s, The Schla La Las remain a vital force of high-octane energy, inspiring a new generation of girls to pick up a guitar, bass, or pair of drumsticks, grab a microphone and let out a rebel yell all in perfect(ish) three-part harmony. Consisting of original line-up Piney Gir, George Terry, Katrin Geilhausen, Vee Churchill and Delia Dansette, they’ve just released a wonderfully uplifting new EP filled with ‘pop and roll’ anthems which you really need to soundtrack the rest of your summer. The Schla La Las Go Wild is out now – go listen! (ML)

 

CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO THE OUR JULY PLAYLIST

PLAYLIST: October 2025

The Get In Her Ears team have put together another eclectic mix of alt-pop & indie gems, reverb-drenched guitar tunes, DIY punk bangers, electronic musings & intriguing experimental sounds for your listening pleasure. Scroll through our recommendations below!

In order to best support the female, LGBTQIA+ and non-binary artists that we love here at GIHE, we are moving away from using Spotify as our main playlisting platform. We have now set up an account on TIDAL, so feel free to 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

 

ARXX – ‘W.I.P’
GIHE are always excited when total faves ARXX share a new tune and the latest offering from the Brighton duo feels particularly special. With a gloriously catchy, country-inspired energy, ‘Work In Progress’ (WIP) offers a rousing, empowering anthem; a comforting acknowledgement that we still have a way to go, a subtle reassurance that it’s ok to have imperfections: “It’s about trying. It’s about getting it wrong and getting it right but finding the beauty in the process.”

Another instant earworm from Hanni and Clara, the release coincides with the band being featured on the soundtrack to the new Sally Wainwright drama Riot Women. It’s certainly an exciting time to be an ARXX fan and they truly deserve every bit of success that comes their way. They’re one of the hardest-working, and most lovely bands in the world.
(Mari Lane – Managing Editor)

Beauty Sleep – ‘You (You’re All I Wanted)’
Following the release of their glistening debut album, The Whole Damn Cake, Northern Irish radical alt-pop duo Beauty Sleep have shared a wonderfully euphoric new single. Shimmering with all the lo-fi hooks and scuzzy uplifting energy you could ever desire, ‘You (You’re All I Wanted)’ is “a love letter to failing and not giving up” – a perfect example of the empowering queer spirit of the band. Watch the wonderfully wacky video below and make sure you nab tickets to catch Beauty Sleep headlining for us at The Cavendish Arms on 27th November! With support from glitch-pop faves Dream Phone and pioneering songwriter Lein Sangster, it promises to be a pretty dreamy night. Tickets on DICE now and are always cheaper in advance. (ML)

congratulations – ‘This Life’
Full of chaotic tempo shifts, cathartic beats and relatable lyrics, ‘This Life’ by Brighton-based four-piece congratulations is a much needed distraction from the monotonous nature of the everyday routine. It’s taken from their debut album, Join Hands, which is due on 13th February 2026 via Bella Union. The band describe it as “a bombastic ode to first world problems and that feeling of losing at life before you’ve ever gotten out of bed.”
(Kate Crudgington – Features Editor)

Lala Lala – ‘Does This Go Faster?’
Having just signed to legendary label Sub-Pop, Lillie West aka Lala Lala has now shared a sparkling, synth-driven new single. Drenched in West’s rich, syrupy vocals and twinkling hooks, ‘Does This Go Faster?’ is steeped in a raw, stripped-back emotion as it flows with beautifully existential meanderings. (ML)

Marina Yozora – ‘Touché’
I was so pleased to discover this tender dream-pop tune by Japanese-born, London-based songwriter Marina Yozora in my GIHE inbox earlier this month. She describes ‘Touché’ as a “love letter” to her friends and fans, which she softly communicates through her delicate vocals, emotive lyrics and atmospheric guitar tones. I’m really excited to hear more new music from her in the future. (KC)

Jouska – ‘California’
Another graceful, shape-shifting offering from Norwegian songwriter and producer Jouska here, lifted from her recent album, How Did I Wind Up Here? ‘California’ is a hazy reflection on her first visit to Los Angeles and “finding calm in unexpected places”, which she explores through her lilting melodies, soft vocals and bittersweet lyrics. “I have a complicated relationship with the U.S.A, especially now,” Jouska elaborates. “There’s so much about it that I find difficult and a lot I still don’t fully understand. But that first visit stayed with me. It gave me space when I had nothing left to give, a strange kind of calm in the middle of everything falling apart.” (KC)

skullcrusher – ‘dragon’
Another disarming, wistful release from American indie artist skullcrusher here. Taken from her new album, And Your Song Is Like A Circle, ‘dragon’ is a song about disassociation and how, as skullcrusher so eloquently explains: “It is a heavy thing to feel the weight of living and pull yourself back to earth.” (KC)

Dogviolet – ‘Now’
The latest single from long time GIHE faves Dogviolet, who were one of the eight bands who played our 10th Birthday all-dayer at The Cavendish Arms last month. The dreamiest of days! Talking of dreamy, this new single showcases the band’s ability to create utterly dreamy soundscapes as its swirling dark majesty caresses the ears with a soaring, gritty splendour. Of the track, Naz from the band explains: “This song is about feeling so consumed by thoughts of the past and the future that you’re unable to move forward with your life, mentally trapped in a cycle of regret and nostalgia.” (ML)

Talking Violet – ‘Destroy’
Having been big fans of Talking Violet since first coming across their immersive “dreamo” sound back in 2018, the Ontario band have since been making waves and garnering acclaim for two sonically expansive albums, and it’s lovely to have another gorgeous track of theirs back in our ears. Rippling with a swirling, shoegaze-tinged allure and shimmering haze, ‘Destroy’ offers an stirring reflection on loss and acceptance. Of the track, songwriter and vocalist Jillian Goyeau explains: “(it’s) about closing a chapter in my life…before moving on I kinda needed to say goodbye…It’s me finally accepting that people can both love you and hurt you at the same time and vice versa.” (ML)

Red Ivory – ‘Crashing Down’
South London four-piece Red Ivory are new to team GIHE, but we’re already big fans of their brooding, distorted sound. Band members Eiliyah, Berry, Frida and Ivy began playing together in 2021 aged fourteen in their secondary school music rooms. Since then, they’ve been honing their skills and developing their songwriting, which has resulted in their upcoming EP, Please Leave, I Need To Wake Up Now, due on 28th November. ‘Crashing Down’ is the opening track on the record and it’s a dizzying reflection on the heightened state of anxiety that can arise when you’re under the influence. (KC)

THE NONE – ‘Pigs Need Feeding’
On one of our recent Soho Radio shows, I declared that punk-inspired four piece THE NONE were one of “the best live bands I’ve ever seen” and I stand by that statement. Kai Whyte is a formidable front person, backed by the cacophonous, momentous sounds of their talented bandmates Gordon Moakes, Jim Beck and Chris Francombe.

The band recently pressed their first two EPs, MATTER AND CARE, to vinyl and released them through Zennor Records. ‘Pigs Need Feeding’ is one of my favourite tracks, full of Kai’s raging reflections on their conflicting feelings about self-intoxication. “I was feeling some sort of shame about my vices, but it was juxtaposed with the knowledge that actual killers don’t feel any,” Kai explains. “I like a drink, but there are certain powerful people and organisations literally arming terror states that kill kids. Maybe I’m not the scumbag.” (KC)

Pinkshift – ‘Authority Problem’
Following gritty recent single ‘Vacant’ back in July, Maryland punk-rockers Pinkshift are back with the fierce, raging energy of ‘Authority Problem’. Propelled by an immense seething power and the raw searing force of front-person Ashrita Kumar’s vocals, it’s a perfect anti-establishment anthem: “”Fuck ICE, fuck the left and the right, fuck the false decorum of rules and laws and executive orders just created to make people feel small and helpless. Only I know who I am, and if you disrespect me then I don’t care, you’ll feel my wrath,” (ML)

Hadda Be – ‘New To The Office’
A gloriously scuzzy new single from south London band Hadda Be, ‘New To The Office’ offers an all-too relatable reflection on the anxious hallucinations of a Sunday night fever dream. It was recorded by Andy Ramsay of Stereolab and offers a gritty taste of what to expect from their upcoming second album. (ML)

Gravey – ‘Blessed With’
Following a five year hiatus, South London duo Soraya Fernandez and Nick White aka Gravey have now joined forces with bassist Myles Morgan and drummer Jonny Jurassic for an epic return to form. Reflecting on the complications and unpredictability of love, ‘Blessed With’ combines a dark, immersive groove with a raw punk-tinged passion. (ML)

Breakup Haircut – ‘I’m Okay (I Lied)’
Having been big faves since they formed at First Timers Fest many years ago, Breakup Haircut played for us at New River Studios recently supporting Strange New Places and – despite being a person down, as Ishani had hurt their ear the day before – Ripley, Delphine & Jordan still managed to put on an absolutely fantastic show! Their brand new single ‘I’m Okay (I Lied)’ is a perfectly catchy slice of punk-pop that comes ahead of their upcoming second album, No Worries If Not, out on 28th November via INH Records. (ML)

No Other News – ‘Flowers’
I was pleased to find a lovely email from Laura, vocalist & bassist of Italian indie-pop trio No Other News, in my GIHE inbox earlier this month. Based in Milan, the band – whose name is a reference to a line from the acclaimed film, The Banshees of Inisherin – write songs that are inspired by “universal themes like insomnia, awkward tenderness, and using someone else’s toothbrush to clean the kitchen sink.” I love the juxtaposition of bittersweet lyrics and playful indie melodies on this single ‘Flowers’. (KC)

 

Wax Jaw – ‘Creepshow’
Philadelphia five-piece Wax Jaw create emotionally charged guitar tunes that purge suffering and express joy simultaneously, and this track ‘Creepshow’ is the epitome of that ethos. It’s taken from their debut album, It Takes Guts!, which the band released via Born Loser Records earlier this month. The band revel in the duplicitous nature of life, love, politics and sexuality, playfully reminding listeners that “the horrors persist, but so do we!” (KC)

CHERYM ft. Uninvited – ‘Sofa Bed’
A cute, queer collaboration between Derry stars CHERYM and new upcoming band Univited, ‘Sofa Bed’ offers a fizzing reflection on coming to realise you may have romantic feelings for someone you consider a close friend; a catchy sapphic anthem, interweaving sugar-sweet vocals and a fresh, punk-pop energy.

Of the collaboration, CHERYM share: “We’re both not ashamed to admit losing hours of our lives sat in front of the TV watching Kerrang! in the early 2000s. It’s safe to say we knew quite early on the exact type of collaboration we wanted to make and saw it as an opportunity to create something that would make our younger selves feel seen and valued. It’s McBusted but more homoerotic and way better looking.” (ML)

Charley Stone – ‘I’ve Gotta Know’
The first of three new songs recorded with The Actual Band, ‘I’ve Gotta Know’ showcases the endearing vulnerability and playful lilting energy of Charley Stone. Taking the listener on a journey through the emotional states of a hopeless romantic caught up in a situationship, it’s another example of Stone’s ability to craft a perfectly catchy indie-pop ditty. (ML)

Rival Queens – ‘Time Goes By’
Following grunge-tinged singles ‘Not Your Enemy’ and ‘Right Now’ earlier this year, London based artist Sally-Anne Hickman aka Rival Queens is back with a reflective new single to celebrate the release of her debut solo EP, Crown and Conquer. A stirring rumination on moments we can never reclaim, it slows with a haunting melancholy with scuzzy shades of the likes of Dum Dum Girls. (ML)

Francis Of Delirium – ‘Little Black Dress’
Luxembourg songwriter Jana Bahrich aka Francis of Delirium is back with this infectious new single, ‘Little Black Dress’, released to coincide with the end of her EU tour supporting Blondshell. Inspired by the feeling of not having your expectations match your reality, the track is an angst-ridden offering that Jana wrote in the hopes that the urgency would translate when she’s on stage; giving her fans a chance to indulge in the messy, chaotic realm of desperation and disappointment with her. (KC)

The Pains Of Being Pure At Heart – ‘Kurt Cobain’s Cardigan’
Not only does this song have one of the best titles ever, it’s just super beautiful. As beautiful as one of Kurt’s cardies, in fact. Oozing a fuzzy, nostalgic energy, it encompasses the whirring stripped-back emotion that shines through whatever The Pains Of Being Pure At Heart create. They explain: “We probably would have never gotten into the things we love if it wasn’t for Kurt telling all his 13 year old fans to ‘go check out The Vaselines, Beat Happening, and Teenage Fanclub’ – bands that have a pretty different sound to Nirvana, but shared a similar spirit.” (ML)

PINS – ‘I’ll Be Yours’
Manchester post-punk outfit PINS have returned with ‘I’ll Be Yours’, a gritty new offering inspired by the early emotions of falling in love and the expectations placed on women’s roles within romantic relationships. Vocalist Faith Vern considers ‘I’ll Be Yours’ to be one of the most “tender” tracks she’s written for PINS to date, but it still smoulders with the band’s trademark shadowy post-punk sensibilities. (KC)

Ezra Furman – ‘One Hand Free’
Taken from the same studio sessions as Goodbye Small Head, Ezra Furman’s acclaimed tenth album released earlier this year, ‘One Hand Free’ is her new standalone single. Flowing with twinkling keys and the distinctive raw emotion of Furman’s vocals, it offers a deceptively jaunty reflection on “feeling so bad you’re not sure what species you even belong to anymore.” A self-described slice of “loser-core kill-shot”, it showcases all the quirky spirit and strangely uplifting grace we know and love from the innovative artist. (ML)

Coral – ‘Garden’
Swedish songwriter Miranda Engholm aka Coral has returned with this bittersweet track inspired by feelings of disappointment and loneliness. ‘Garden’ is the first taste of what her upcoming new album will sound like, which is set for release in the Spring of 2026. Through her gentle indie-pop melodies and earnest lyrics, Coral gently dismantles her feelings and tries to make peace with the idea of “playing in the garden but without all of your friends.” (KC)

Ailbhe Reddy – ‘Align’
I’m so pleased that Dublin-born songwriter Ailbhe Reddy is back with new music! ‘Align’ is the first single from her forthcoming album, which is due in early 2026 on her new label Don Giovanni Records. I loved her previous albums, Personal History and Endless Affair, so I’m looking forward to hearing more from her in the near future. For now though, I’m content to listen to ‘Align’ on a loop. It’s a lilting, compassionate reflection on a big breakup, tentatively tracing how memories and emotions shift and soften over time. (KC)

feeo – ‘The Hammer Strikes The Bell’
Lifted from her debut album, Goodness, released via AD 93 earlier this month, I’m transfixed by this track from London experimental artist feeo. She describes her album as “an exploration of simultaneous yet opposing states of being; darkness and lightness, obscurity and visibility and most fundamentally, solitude and togetherness” – something which is epitomised on ‘The Hammer Strikes The Bell’. Her calm, meditative voice and mixture of ambient & experimental sounds is strangely soothing here. (KC)

Hannah Schneider – ‘Lighthouse’
One half of acclaimed electronic duo AyOwA, Copenhagen-based artist Hannah Schneider is now set to release an innovative solo album early next year. Rejecting the use of AI in music, she recorded the record together with other musicians at a residency at the historical Thorvaldsens Museum. The first taste of the new album, ‘Lighthouse’ offers a glitchy soundscape, interweaving sparkling layers of sound alongside Schneider’s beautifully rich Beth Gibbons-reminiscent vocals. (ML)

Hilary Woods – ‘Taper’
An airy, shape-shifting soundscape that stirs the senses, ‘Taper’ beautifully showcases the versatile songwriting of Irish artist & composer Hilary Woods. Lifted from her upcoming new album, Night CRIÚ, which is set for release on 31st October via Sacred Bones (one of my favourite record labels), Hilary says ‘Taper’ is “a song that honours a presence to one that is absent. A love song that only a children’s choir could express fully.” Retaining her experimental spirit, but also seeing her return to a more song-based structure, Night CRIÚ is centered around Hilary’s vocals, which act as threads of connection to the past and the present. (KC)

Penelope Trappes – ‘The Mercy of The Hagetisse’
This slow-burning, haunting lament from the marvellous Penelope Trappes is the perfect soundtrack for a gloomy Halloween night. After sharing her poignant album, A Requiem, earlier this year, the Brighton-based Australian artist is set to share a companion piece, titled Æternum, on 31st October via One Little Independent Records. ‘The Mercy of The Hagetisse’ features on Penelope’s new record, which she summoned from a place of grief and intense emotional vulnerability. Throughout the track, Penelope explores the compassion and the cruelty of Hagetisse – a witch, seer, or hag in Old Dutch folklore – through her melancholic vocals, un-nerving electronic textures and steady, somber beats. (KC)

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