PLAYLIST: January 2023

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

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

Amaroun – ‘Just Be Good To Me’ (SOS Band Cover)
This is the latest release from London-based artist Amaroun, a firm favourite of ours here at GIHE! We are all loving this cover of ‘Just Be Good To Me’, originally by SOS Band.
(Tash Walker)

Ritual Forms – ‘Down’
A brooding, atmospheric soundscape that explores the way our moods fluctuate during uncertain times, I’m obsessed with this track from London-based trio Ritual Forms. Lifted from their upcoming debut album, Nighttime Economy, which is set for release on 2nd March, it’s a captivating blend of hypnotic loops, steady beats and intoxicating vocals.
(Kate Crudgington)

CIRCE – ‘Undone’
A sonic manifestation of power, I love this new tune from dark-pop artist Circe. I’ve been listening to her 2020 EP She’s Made Of Saints again recently, and I’m always so impressed by her ability to create such immersive, cinematic soundscapes that melt away the edges of reality. ‘Undone’ is no exception. I can’t wait to see her perform it live at The Shacklewell Arms on Monday 30th Jan. (KC)

Frankie Rose – ‘Anything’
Set to release her fifth studio album this Spring, New York based artist Frankie Rose has now shared her latest single ‘Anything’. Propelled by a whirring ‘80s-inspired drive with shades of the likes The Cure (you should also check out Rose’s Cure cover album Seventeen Seconds), a glistening soundscape flows with a stirring anthemic majesty, creating a blissful slice of electro-pop. Love As Projection, the upcoming new album from Frankie Rose, is set for release on 10th March via Night School Records. (Mari Lane)

ARXX – ‘Ride Or Die’
I challenge you to listen to this new one from absolute faves ARXX without hitting repeat at least 10 times… It’s just such a totally infectious anthem. All propelled by thrashing, impeccable time-keeping from Clara, ‘Ride Or Die’ showcases the gritty, emotion strewn vocals of Hanni, alongside sweeping catchy pop hooks and an empowering euphoria of unified voices singing along with the chorus. An utterly uplifting celebration of queer love and unwavering friendship, it’s the perfect sing-along anthem live. Being able to share a room full of adoring fans, all joining in joyously with “I would” at The Social a few months back was a blissfully memorable experience that I hope to re-live very soon. ‘Ride Or Die’ is out now via Submarine Cat Records, ahead of the release of ARXX’s upcoming album of the same name, which is set for release on 31st March. Pre-order here. (ML)

Grandmas House – ‘Desire’
GIHE fave Grandmas House are back with this gritty new single! Taken from the upcoming new EP, Who Am I, which is set for release on 3rd March via Brace Yourself Records, the track is inspired by the disorientating power of romantic infatuation, full of charged riffs and commanding beats. (KC)

Piss Kitti – ‘I’m Jammed’
This belter from Liverpool-based punks Piss Kitti was released at the end of 2022, but it’s a taste of what’s to come from the band later this year. Having previously supported Black Lips, Dream Wife and Amyl & The Sniffers, it looks like 2023 is set to be another big year for the band. I’m looking forward to hearing more tunes like this in the near future. (KC)

ALT BLK ERA – ‘Rockstar’
From the opening riff of ‘Rockstar’ to the track’s final lyric, I love this alternative anthem from Nu Metal sister duo ALT BLK ERA. It dropped into my inbox at the end of last year and it’s been ricocheting around my skull ever since. (KC)

Tokky Horror – ‘Hammer 2 The Face’
Rave-punk trio Tokky Horror will be unleashing this frenzied, excellently named anthem on their crowds at grassroots music venues across the UK for Independent Venue Week from the 1st of February! This track is described as “A sub 2-minute blast of urgency, taking aim at the casual sexual harassment that plagues femme’s in gig spaces.” I can’t wait to hear it live at The Black Heart in Camden. Full details & ticket links for the band’s upcoming IVW shows can be found here. (KC)

Alien Chicks – ‘Cowboy’
The new single from GIHE faves and Ones to Watch for this year, Alien Chicks’ ‘Cowboy’ offers an insight into the trio’s ability to create relentless funk-fuelled punk-rock with a truly unique edge. Building from a sultry rumination on anxieties to a frenzied blast of whirring, riotous emotion, it’s another wonderfully chaotic cacophony from the South London trio. Watch the new video for ‘Cowboy’ here. (ML)

About Bunny – ‘Teeth’
Taken from their recent EP Mixtape Vol.1, this single from London-based rock band About Bunny bites chunks out of its listeners. They’ll be playing at The Hope & Anchor in Islington on 16th February, so head down to see them live if you like what you hear. (KC)

Berries – ‘Spiral’
Following the release of their debut album, How We Function, last year, long term faves Berries have been going from strength to strength lately. Recent single ‘Spiral’ showcases all there is to love about the London trio; an instantly infectious slice of garage-rock, it hits you with its raw, scuzzy power and Holly’s distinctive sumptuous vocals and spiky guitar hooks. Driven by a frenetic energy, it perfectly captures the utterly compelling allure of the band’s live shows – witness this for yourself on their March headline tour – details here. (ML)

The Early Mornings – ‘Early-Modern Rain’
Having just released their second EP Ultra-Modern Rain, London trio The Early Mornings have been becoming known across the London scene for their energetic live sets, and wowed crowds at Left Of The Dial festival last year. Latest single ‘Early-Modern Rain’ fizzes with a jangly energy with shades of left-field legends The Raincoats, as angular hooks flow with a scuzzy allure. A perfectly playful slice of post-punk that will leave you eager to listen to the album in its entirety. (ML)

Softcult – ‘Dress’
Canadian twin siblings Softcult are back with this hazy new offering which tackles the issue of consent. Blending buoyant melodies with their candid lyrics – “It’s a dress, not a yes / Not a fucking invitation” – the band refuse to remain silent in the face of pervasive everyday sexism. The track is taken from their upcoming EP, see you in the dark, which is set for release on 24th March. (KC)

Death Valley Girls – ‘Sunday’
The latest single from LA psych-rockers Death Valley Girls, ‘Sunday’ oozes an enchanting other-worldly splendour. Building with a fizzing energy, it harks back to the psychedelic sounds of the ’70s California scene, whilst showcasing the band’s ability to create something that is utterly unique, reflecting on the process of addressing your pain and being honest with yourself. A beautifully immersive trip into the cosmic world of Death Valley Girls. Islands In The Sky, the upcoming new album from Death Valley Girls, is set for release on 24th February via Suicide Squeeze Records. (ML)

Mandy, Indiana – ‘Injury Detail’
Thumping beats and heavy, unpredictable rhythms permeate this track from experimental electronic outfit Mandy, Indiana. Influenced by the dystopian worlds of Blade Runner 2049 and video games like Bisoshock, vocalist Valentine Caulfield explains: “‘Injury Detail’ was inspired by the idea of being trapped in a liminal space, with the guitars creating a seemingly limitless and undefined landscape. The vocals act as a guide to possible salvation, or perhaps something of a more sinister intent.” (KC)

Lizzy Young – ‘Cigarettes Are Good For Pain’
Someone I’m very excited to hear more from over the next 12 months is Lizzy Young. This track is a love letter to everyone who identifies as a woman, a confrontational art-pop, electro and trap record! (TW)

Rumpistol x Kill J – ‘Walk On Home 2.0’
I was so excited to see Kill J pop up on track, and it’s one I’m going to let speak for itself. ‘Walk On Home 2.0’ is a sensationally layered soundscape. (TW)

Livia Rita – ‘FUGA FUTURA’
This sensational track is taken from Livia Rita’s album of the same name, and I can’t stop listening to it and leaning into the journey it takes me on. They will be releasing a music video for this track soon, where all the different creatures from their previous passages come together as a collective to create a portal into their queer mythologies. It is a mystical journey, a collection of possible future identities, inspired by our desires, dreams and fears for the future. It is a place of healing and fantasy, where nature rebels and magic abounds all in an attempt to unite otherworldly revolutionaries – to a swampy slow pop anthem. Are you ready? I am! (TW)

Nameless Twin – ‘Dead Roses’
I love everything about this haunting new single from industrial-electronic duo Alicia Rei Kim and Ryan Osterman aka NAMELESS TWIN. They’ve only released a handful of tracks so far, but all of them have been the perfect blend of dark, dreamy sounds. (KC)

Feral Five – ‘Truth Is The New Gold’
Ahead of the release of their new album next month, electro-punk duo Feral Five have shared the title track as a scintillating taste of what’s to come. Propelled by a fierce energy, ‘Truth Is The New Gold’ explores truth and trust between both people and information. Offering a glitchy soundscape fizzing with an ethereal whirr, Kat’s sweeping, rich vocals flow as a sparkling cinematic splendour immerses the listener. Truth Is The New Gold, the upcoming new album from Feral Five, is out on 10th February via Reckless Yes. (ML)

girl with dream – ‘HRT’ (Heart Replacement Theory)
I can’t get enough of this song by girl with dream, the newest project from trans singer-songwriter Chris Lawson alongside Rhy Climenhage. This track is all about the sacred power found in embracing yourself and participating in an act of healing, guided by self love and harnessing agency. Just beautiful. (TW)

Razor Braids – ‘Nashville, Again’
Brooklyn-based Razor Braids are a queer, all-female/non-binary rock band who combine the vulnerable self-awareness of indie rock with dynamic instrumentation, anchored in a 90s ethos – just like us here at GIHE! This track is a fresh look at an old fave of theirs, the first song they ever released as a band! (TW)

Frankie Morrow – ‘Sunflowers’
Having released their debut EP, Blue Parrot Backpackers Hotel in October, Scottish band Frankie Morrow finally formed their current fully-fledged outfit last year after initially playing together and separately in various musical projects across Scotland since their teens. Personally, I can’t get enough of their glistening, folk-strewn sounds and heartfelt lyricism, and love the lilting grace of this track ‘Sunflowers’. (ML)

‘LINN – Okay, Sister’
Copenhagen DIY avant-pop artist LINN has released this tune with all its soothing tones and acoustic pluckings, highlighting the vulnerability in the lyrics. It’s taken from her upcoming EP, Femte Dimension, which is out now. Don’t forget to check out the video which was filmed by her 4 year old – amazing! (TW)

Prima Hera – ‘Sidecar’
This is the debut release from Prima Hera, the solo project of musician Stef Williamson. A track all about self-doubt, told through the perception of an imagined other, it’s just beautiful. I’m looking forward to hearing more from Prima Hera in 2023. (TW)

Poolblood – ‘voyager’
This woozy guitar tune from Toronto-based musician poolblood is a tender reflection on the conflicting feelings that come with moving on at the end of a relationship. It’s taken from her recent album, mole, which explores the highs & lows of romantic and platonic love. The songs on the record were influenced by the dynamic between Keanu Reeves and River Phoenix’s characters in Gus Van Sant’s My Own Private Idaho, which is one of my favourite films! (KC)

Dog Park – ‘Sunny Decadence’
A bright, lo-fi indie pop tune, ‘Sunny Decadence’ is the debut single from Paris-based band Dog Park. Full of soft vocals and hazy guitar sounds, it’s a proper antidote to the January blues. (KC)

H.L Grail – ‘O.T.D’
Whilst you may be familiar with her from London icons Goat Girl, multi-instrumentalist, songwriter and producer Holly Mullineaux – aka H.L. Grail – has now announced the release of her debut EP. Taken from the EP, new single ‘OTD’ immerses the ears in a shimmering, celestial splendour as Mullineaux’s delicate vocals ripple beautifully with a whimsical allure. An exquisitely stirring lullaby. (ML)

Deerhoof – ‘Sit Down, Let Me Tell You A Story’
Having just announced the release of their upcoming 19th (!) album in March, math-rock alumni Deerhoof have now shared an enticing taster with their brand new single. Sung entirely in Satomi’s native Japanese (as is the whole album), ‘Sit Down, Let Me Tell You A Story’ offers a frenzied, colourful cacophony as quirky honey-sweet vocals twinkle throughout the fuzzy soundscape. I’m super excited about the return of Deerhoof and can’t wait to hear Miracle Level, the new album, released on 31st March via Joyful Noise. (ML)

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Track Of The Day: Tokky Horror – ‘Jazz Music’

A two minute blast of hyperactive beats, catchy lyrical refrains and jungle-inspired electronics, Merseyside-based punk-rave trio Tokky Horror have shared their latest single ‘Jazz Music’. Capturing the chaotic spirit of the genre the track is ironically named after, the band put their own spin on things via their relentless rhythms, manic synths and buzzing bass lines.

Formed of producer Zee Davine (previously Queen Zee) and dual vocalists Mollie Rush and Ava Akira, Tokky Horror formed virtually at first, sending demo’s back and forth online to entertain themselves during the pandemic. The band playfully coined their sound as “virtual hardcore”, as founder Ava Akira explains “the only way for city kids to rave in 2020 was on the internet.” Since then, the band have released their debut EP, I Found The Answers And Now I Want More and they’ve toured extensively performing multiple shows across the UK.

Newly signed to FMLY Agency, Tokky Horror are now gearing up for another run of UK shows that are sure to keep fans “coming back for my jazz” if their new single is anything to go by. Full dates – including support slots with Wargasm & CLT DRP – are below.

 

Follow Tokky Horror on bandcamp, Spotify, Twitter, Instagram & Facebook

TOKKY HORROR UK Live Dates 2022
05.09 – Tunbridge Wells, Forum with Wargasm
06.09 – Glasgow, Hug & Pint with CLT DRP
07.09 – Edinburgh, Sneaky Pete’s with CLT DRP
08.09 – Newcastle, The Cluny with CLT DRP
09.09 – Hull, The Adelphi with CLT DRP
18.11 – Wolverhampton, North Street Social
19.11 – Bristol, Old Market Assembly
24.11 – London, New Cross Inn
25.11 – London, DM-4-Address
26.11 – Liverpool, Quarry

Photo Credit: Joe Guppy

Kate Crudgington
@kcbobcut

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EP: Tokky Horror – ‘I Found The Answers and Now I Want More’

If you love The Prodigy’s ‘Firestarter’, Tokky Horror’s latest EP I Found the Answers and Now I Want More is the exhilarating debut you need to hear. Hailing from Liverpool, London and Manchester, the virtual hardcore collective made up of Zee Davine, Ava Akira and Mollie Rush layer growling guitars with EDM. The result? A cyber goth masterpiece that hits you as hard as MDMA.

Kicking wormholes through genres, the queercore group mix rave and rock to produce a record that emulates the same intense and futuristic energy of The Matrix. This is the kind of special EP you need to listen to through both earphones to fully appreciate.

Dragging us into a new dimension is the brazen, pulse-racing opening track ‘Girlracer’, which launches listeners into punk-infused drum and bass. Lyrically tearing apart the pop culture bond between masculinity and fast cars, the song revs its engine angrily at the expulsion of women from hyper-masculine spaces, which Davine notes often includes “dance culture itself.”

The beats on ‘Simulate Me’ pulse at levels that could match a Love Honey vibrator. Laced with laser synth sounds and erotic imperatives like “touch me / love me”, the song frankly takes on the topic of virtual love and dating, particularly fitting for the pandemic restriction era we are living in. Next up is ‘Godliness’, which stands out against the others and offers a slightly mellower take on electronic rock. As Davine says, “I think we show our more expansive side on ‘Godliness’…it’s us letting our guard down a bit for something more genuine.”

With croaking, shrieking vocals and distorted heavy guitar sounds, ‘Eden on Acid’ is probably the most punk-sounding song of the EP (and my favourite track too.) It’s only one and half minutes long, yet has an edge and intensity to it that reminds me of the intro of My Bloody Valentine’s ‘Only Shallow’. Finishing with ‘Sleeper’, Tokky Horror strips the opening riff from The Beastie Boys ‘Sabotage’ and creates an exhilarating build-up to a hypnotic refrain. A strong end to an EP that shows off the trio’s instrumental momentum and individuality.

Listen to Tokky Horror’s new EP, released via Alcopop! Records, here.

Follow Tokky Horror on bandcamp, Spotify, Twitter, Instagram & Facebook

Jay Mitra
@punkofcolour

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PLAYLIST: April 2021

The GIHE team have unearthed some more new music gems for you to listen to on our April Playlist! There’s an eclectic mix of indie anthems, alt-pop gems, electronic soundscapes and gritty guitar tunes. 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.

Noga Erez – ‘Fire Kites’
GIHE favourite and pop renegade Noga Erez’s new record KIDS has barely left my turntable since it was released in March. The record is bursting with her trademark charisma and energy, epitomised by this track ‘Fire Kites’. Keep and eye on our GIHE socials for an exciting announcement involving Noga very soon…
(Kate Crudgington)

Miss Eaves – ‘3 Jobs’
This banger from Brooklyn-based rapper Miss Eaves features on Loud Women’s third compilation album, which is bursting with anthems from DIY bands from both sides of the Atlantic. The record also features tracks from ARXX, GÉNN, LibraLibra, Vulpynes, Bugeye, Jelly Cleaver, Breakup Haircut and Pleasure Venom. Grab your copy from bandcamp now. (KC)

Little Simz – ‘Introvert’
The latest single from innovative artist Little Simz, ‘Introvert’ may just be her most powerful offering yet. A poignant reflection on the last year and an empowering rallying cry to break free from societal limitations, the track is propelled by an immense sense of grandeur and cinematic instrumentation. A heartbreakingly impassioned anthem, touching on themes of governmental corruption, poverty and race, it’s a truly magnificent and necessary listen. “I’m a Black woman and I’m a proud one / We walk in blind faith not knowing the outcome / But as long as we unified then we’ve already won.” (Mari Lane)

Sans Soucis – ‘I’m On’
An uplifting blend of lush vocals, warm synth textures and smooth beats, songwriter & producer Sans Soucis’ single ‘I’m On’ is a genre-bending reflection on her own experiences of recovering from an extended period of depression and the joy she experienced when she was able to re-connect with herself again. (KC)

Ruti – ‘Daylight’
Essex-based songwriter Ruti may only be 21 years old, but she has a distinctive, soulful voice that shines with a majestic, mature glory on ‘Daylight’. This track is taken from her recent EP, All At Once. (KC)

People Club – ‘Damn’
This smooth new offering from Berlin-based five-piece People Club is an exploration of the behaviours surrounding addiction to internet pornography. “We wanted to examine how porn addicts can actually be super high-functioning and never get ‘found out’, yet actually can suffer seriously as a result of their habit,” the band explain about the track. ‘Damn’ features on People Club’s new EP Take Me Home, which is set for release on 7th May. (KC)

Nun Habit – ‘Righteous Jerk’
Having wowed us with their sparkling charisma playing for us at The Finsbury back in 2020, the London-based queer five-piece Nun Habit have now announced their debut album, set for release in August. Taken from their recent double a-side release, ‘Righteous Jerk’ oozes an eerie mysticism before building with thrashing beats and scuzzy, reverb-strewn riffs, alongside Kate’s sweeping soulful vocals. ‘Righteous Jerk’ is out now alongside double a-side ‘Slip n Slide’. hedge fun, the upcoming album from Nun Habit, will be released in August, with an accompanying celebratory launch party on 16th August at The Victoria in Dalston. (ML)

Maya Lakhani – ‘Walk Alone’
Inspired by the current conversations that are happening around women’s safety, the culture of victim-blaming and pure desire to walk alone as a women, British-Indian artist Maya Lakhani’s latest single is propelled by a gritty, emotion-strewn power. Flowing with the soaring, raw splendour of her vocals alongside a majestic, otherworldly musicality, it oozes a captivating sense of grandeur and poignant sentiment. (ML)

Softcult – ‘Take It Off’
I’ve been listening to Softcult aka twin sisters Phoenix and Mercedes Arn Horn’s debut EP Year Of The Rat so much recently. It’s a bittersweet collection of lush, grunge-infused songs that culminate their thoughts on sexism, misogyny and objectification, and ‘Take It Off’ aches with with their subdued anger. Lyrically, it’s directed at catcallers, but it doubles up as a care-free dismissal of ridiculous trophy wife standards too. (KC)

Bitch Hunt – ‘Eau Claire’
The latest single from London based non-binary band Bitch Hunt, ‘Eau Claire’ offers the first taste of the band’s upcoming debut EP. An ode to a Wisconsin town where singer Sian used to live, with its stripped back jangling hooks and raw, heartfelt vocals, it builds in momentum to an effervescent slice of perfect punk-pop. Shapeshifter, the debut EP from Bitch Hunt, is set for release on 28th May via Reckless Yes. (ML)

Wallice – ‘Hey Michael’
It was love at first listen when I heard this single from LA-based Wallice. I love her candid lyrics on this playful lament about having your ear chewed off by a mediocre man at a party. Watch the accompanying video for the track here. (KC)

Fightmilk – ‘Overbite’
The recent single from total faves Fightmilk, ‘Overbite’ is taken from their upcoming new album. Oozing a track’s subtle romanticism and tongue-in-cheek wit, the raw emotion and distinctive smooth-yet-husky charm of front-person Lily’s vocals deliver a heartwarming sentiment alongside an infectious, shimmering energy. The perfect, alternative fuzzy love-song. Contender, the new album from Fightmilk, is set for release on 14th May via Reckless Yes. (ML)

PACKS – ‘New TV’
This brooding offering from Toronto-based PACKS is a hazy ode to “other people’s garbage.” I love the sound of Madeline Link’s vocals and the grungy, hazy guitars on this track. The band will be releasing their debut LP Take The Cake on 21st May via Royal Mountain Records/Fire Talk. (KC)

Tirzah – ‘Send Me’
The latest single from Tirzah, the first we’ve heard from her in two years and boy am I glad she’s back. Teaming up again with previous collaborators Coby Sey and Mica Levi, Tirzah delivers us another beautiful song with futuristic subtlety. The amount of emotion and longing that’s conveyed in her music blows me away every time, leaving me with all the feels. Fingers crossed the release of ‘Send Me’ is only the beginning of more music to come from Tirzah. (Tash Walker)

Deap Vally – ‘Give Me A Sign’
Us GIHE girls are super excited to hear Deap Vally’s new EP American Cockroach, which this new track ‘Give Me A Sign’ is lifted from. Set for release on 18th June via Cooking Vinyl, the LA-based duo have collaborated with Jennie Vee (Eagles of Death Metal) and the brilliant Ayse Hassan (Savages/ESYA) for this record, which the duo describe as “songs for the underdog, the outlaw, the defeated, for the days when you feel like no one understands you or you can’t do anything right.” (KC)

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

Shygirl – ‘Tasty’
One thing that is getting me through my weeks at the moment is listening to music that makes me just want to dance. Especially this track from the incredible Shygirl. Pull up those hoods and get moving. (TW)

Mykki Blanco – ‘Free Ride’
Firm fave Mykki Blanco released ‘Free Ride’ alongside the news that they’d signed to Transgressive Records at the beginning of this year. Speaking about the track, Mykki explains “Some of the most intimate moments and conversations I have ever shared were with my mother on long drives in the Southern countryside when I was a teenager. The music that soundtracked these memories on our daily journeys was the stuff of my mother’s generation. I would find myself daydreaming, reflecting and envisioning the kind of life I would like to create for myself.” With all its feel-good vibes, this song has been buzzing around my head constantly since I first heard it – I LOVE IT. (TW)

DEELA ft. T6lu – ‘FIT’
A fun, provocative cut from British-Nigerian rappers DEELA and T6lu, ‘FIT’ is all about being able to say what you want, when you want. Their slick lyrical delivery and dense beats reflect the pair’s direct approach to making empowering, unapologetic anthems. (KC)

Alex Loveless – ‘Through 2 U’
This is a slow-burning offering full of hazy beats and brooding vocals from Hackney-based DIY electronic artist Alex Loveless. Released via Loveless’ own label Dirty Mind (named after their own club night inspired by the Prince record) ‘Through 2 U’ is an intoxicating combination of smouldering alt-pop hooks and melancholy-tinged lyrics. (KC)

Pallas Athene – ‘Gimme Gimme’
Toronto-based artist Pallas Athene contributed this ambient track to Object Ten, a compilation album that features original pieces of experimental, electronic music by new and established artists. Put together by London drone-pop band The Leaf Library, the album is a real breath of fresh air for anyone looking for a departure from their usual listening habits. (KC)

Tokky Horror – ‘Godliness’
London-Manchester-Liverpool trio Tokky Horror have taken things down a notch on their latest offering ‘Godliness’, which is taken from their debut EP I Found The Answers And Now I Want More, set for release on 21st May via Alcopop! Records. “I think we show our more expansive side on ‘Godliness’,” Zee Davine explains. “Where our first two singles were the ‘flag-in-ground’ moment when we wanted to assert our presence with intensity, ‘Godliness’ is us letting our guard down a bit for something more genuine.” (KC)

GHLOW – ‘Not Fit For This’
A visceral blend of distorted guitars, energetic beats and commanding vocals, this single from Russian-Swedish heavy duo GHLOW is taken from their debut album Slash and Burn, recently released via PNK SLM Recordings. I love their intense rhythms and jagged riffs and recommend listening to the full album if you like what you hear. (KC)

A Place To Bury Strangers – ‘End Of The Night’
With a change in lineup and a new EP titled Hologram on the way, Brooklyn’s A Place To Bury Strangers have unleashed this caustic new tune that buzzes with unrest. Founding member Oliver Ackermann has been joined by John Fedowitz (bass) and Sandra Fedowitz (drums) for this record, which is released on 16th July. (KC)

SPITBOY – ‘In Your Face’ (Remastered)
Don Giovanni Records have announced that they’re releasing trailblazing San Francisco based 90s feminist hardcore band SPITBOY’s discography on 25th June. Titled Body Of Work (1990-1995), 100% of the profits from the record will be going to the National Women’s Law Center. This is the first time SPITBOY have appeared on my radar and I’m loving their grungy, riot grrrl sound. (KC)

The Bug Club – ‘Checkmate’
Set to release their debut EP this Friday, Welsh trio The Bug Club’s ‘Checkmate’ showcases their uniquely uplifting, frenetic brand of garage rock perfectly. Propelled by a vibrant, driving energy, it oozes a playful sense of euphoria as gloriously scuzzy hooks race alongside blissful harmonies. Launching Moondream One, the upcoming debut EP from The Bug Club, is out 30th April via Bingo Records. Read our interview with Tilly from the band here. (ML)

Queens & Kings – ‘Going Through Hell’
Propelled by a fuzzed-out visceral energy and gentle blues-rock twang, ‘Going Through Hell’ reflects on Toronto duo Queens & Kings’ 10+ year relationship and the struggles they have gone through both personally and as a band. As Alissa’s gritty swooning vocals flow with a stirring, soulful drive alongside scuzzy hooks, it’s a powerful Americana-tinged slice of garage-rock brimming full of anthemic emotion. (ML)

GracieSouz – ‘Brian Cox’
Having just released her stirring debut EP Better In Space, GracieSouz creates sweeping, ethereal soundscapes. Paying ode to the famed scientist with Gracie’s soaring, crystalline vocals and a cinematic splendour, it oozes a bewitching, majestic grace. A shimmering slice of brooding electro-pop. Better In Space, the new EP from GracieSouz, is out now. (ML)

MELÓ – ‘Castle’
Taken from her upcoming EP Youthless, Canadian-Hungarian artist MELÓ’s latest single ‘Castle’ reflects on themes of mental illness. Evoking images of escapism, it oozes a sweeping, ethereal soundscape propelled by the soaring power of the soulful vocals. Flowing with a shimmering majesty, it’s a captivating slice of dreamy alt-pop. (ML)

Gillie – ‘Retirement Paradise’
The title track from her recent EP, Welsh songwriter Gillie tentatively explores what it means to slow down and reflect on what you truly need on ‘Retirement Paradise’. “I think this is the track that defines me as who I am today,” she explains. “I’m now aware that the people whom I previously thought lived slow and boring lives, have become the people I take note from. I often joke that I could go into retirement right this moment and live quite happily, and so that’s how this track developed.” (KC)

Be Charlotte – ‘We Are Burning’
Taken from her debut EP Dreaming With The Lights Off, Be Charlotte’s ‘We Are Burning’ soars with a twinkling emotion and lilting, folk-tinged melodies. Propelled by Charlotte’s distinctive luscious Scottish vocals, it’s a sparkling pop anthem, calling us to action at a time when hope may seem to be lost. (ML)

All cats are beautiful – ‘(u know) u mean a long minute to me’
The first single to be taken from their upcoming EP, all cats are beautiful (acab)’s ‘(u know) u mean a long minute to me’ is a truly stirring slice of twinkling lo-fi indie pop. A shimmering, swirling soundscape, it wraps itself around the ears and heartstrings with beautiful harmonies and woozy beats. A wonderfully soothing offering oozing an emotive sparkling splendour. the things we made, the upcoming new EP from all cats are beautiful, is set for release on 6th August via Moshi Moshi. (ML)

Thigh High – ‘Because The Night’ (London 2021)
I first heard Thigh High’s cover/performance of ‘Because The Night’ as part of Patti Smith’s celebrations around the inauguration of President Biden. The track is now available for you to download and it’s just beautiful. I had the pleasure of interviewing Thigh High last year and I recommend you check out the rest of their catalogue – a band truly dedicated to celebrating and centering queer joy in their music! (TW)

 

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