LISTEN: GIHE on Soho Radio with Shy Charles (09.12.24)

Tash, Kate and Mari were back on Soho Radio for the final GIHE show of 2024, playing some of their highlights from their favourite female, non-binary and LGBTQIA+ artists who released new music this year. They spoke about their top tracks and albums and they shared memorable live music moments from the past 12 months too.

Fabulous self-taught harpist and folk artist Shy Charles also dropped into the studio to talk about their festive EP, Shylent Night. They spoke about their journey into music, the inspirations behind their Christmas record, plus, they shared anecdotes about the accompanying video for their cover of Spice Girls’ iconic track ‘2 Become 1’ – watch it here!

Artists featured on the eclectic playlist include Whitelands, Roller Derby, Fightmilk, Midwife, Elsa Hewitt, Baby Rose, Schande, Dogviolet, Circe, TIIVA, ARXX, Jæd, Brimheim, HAVVK and more.

Listen back to the show below:

We’ll be back on Soho Radio in 2025! See you on Monday 6th January from 12-2pm
 Make sure you tune in via www.sohoradiolondon.com

Tracklist
Poly Styrene & Celeste Bell – Black Christmas
Charli xcx ft. Billie Eilish – Guess
Baby Rose – Landslide (Fleetwood Mac Cover)
Whitelands – Cheer
ARXX – Crying In The Carwash
Tom Rasmussen ft. Romy – Never Look Back
Circe – Blue Love
TIIVA – Tornados
Pink Milk – You Will Follow Me To Hell
Amyl and the Sniffers – Hertz
pink suits – are you gay yet?
Midwife – Better Off Alone (Alice Deejay Cover)
Elsa Hewitt – Unimaginable Pain
Roller Derby – Dreams
Schande – Relevant Campaigns
Happy Accidents – Infinite Possibilities
Shy Charles – 2 Become 1 (Spice Girls Cover)
**Interview with Shy Charles**
Angeline Morrison – Black John
Luca Perry – Show Me
Luki – Seven Years Below The Flowers
Jæd – Very Fond
HAVVK – Waste Of Time
Brimheim – Normies
Fightmilk – No Souvenirs
Dogviolet – Violets

Kate CrudgingtonLeave a comment

INTERVIEW: Aisha Badru

Having released her debut album back in 2018, Nigerian-American artist Aisha Badru has since been reflecting on themes of love, loss and personal growth in her sparkling alt-folk offerings with a distinctive effervescent grace. Now, with the release of her brand new album, The Sun Still Rises, her hope is to combine these personal reflections with more of a collective awareness. To reach people through her beautifully stirring creations; to soothe emotions and offer a cathartic accompaniment to her listeners’ self-care routine.

Following the release of her exquisite new album, we caught up with Aisha to discuss the release, the inspirations behind it, and her own personal practice of self-care and wellness. Have a read, and make sure you have a listen to The Sun Still Rises now!

Hi Aisha! Welcome to Get In Her Ears! How are you doing today?
I’m doing well, thank you! I recently made a big move from Florida to Massachusetts. While I loved my time in Florida, I’m excited to experience the seasons again. I’m originally from New York, so it feels like a return to my roots in some ways.

Are you able to tell us a bit about what initially inspired you to start creating music?
In the early stages of my career, heartbreak was my main motivator for creating music. Writing became a way for me to cope and prove to myself that I was worthy. At 25, I found myself at a pivotal crossroads in my life. On the one hand, I was pursuing a relationship with someone who was emotionally unavailable, and on the other, my music was starting to gain traction. I realised I had to choose between the two, and ultimately, I walked away from the relationship to focus on my music. That relationship was really hard for me to let go of because it symbolised letting go of my old self who had low self-esteem. With that said, the unfolding of my music career has always been a spiritual journey for me — a way to discover my worth, while also reminding my listeners of theirs.

I love the lilting energy and sparkling emotion of your songs, but who would you consider to be your main musical influences?
It’s always a bit tricky for me to pin-point specific influences because I’ve listened to such a wide range of music over the years. But I’d say my earlier work was heavily influenced by folk and acoustic music, especially for how they convey emotion and tell stories in such a raw and intimate way. More recently, I’ve been increasingly inspired by artists and groups that use their music to explore themes of collective healing, resilience, and community. For example, I admire the work of the vocal collective Beautiful Chorus, who create music that fosters peace and connection, and Rising Appalachia, whose songs tell powerful stories of resilience and social consciousness. Ultimately, I’m inspired by music that speaks to the heart and encourages emotional growth as well as planetary healing.

You’ve just released your second album The Sun Still Rises, which is super exciting! I’ve been told that you’d like your music to be “soothing and medicinal” – are you able to tell us a bit more about this and any themes running throughout the album?
With my music, my intention is to offer both consolation and encouragement, especially during times of self-doubt or emotional struggle. Throughout the album, I’ve focused on themes of hope and renewal. It’s about finding peace amidst the chaos and remembering that, even in our darkest moments, there’s always a path forward.

And how would you say the process of recording the album has differed from your previous releases? 
The process of recording The Sun Still Rises was different in that I was much more focused on creating an album with a clear intention around mental health. While my previous releases were also purposeful, this album felt more deliberate in terms of the themes I wanted to explore.  

The theme of wellness and self-care seems to be very important to you. What are the key ways you practise this in your own day-to-day life?
I practice wellness in my day-to-day life by being mindful of how what I consume affects my wellbeing – whether it’s food, social media, music, news, etc. I make adjustments as needed to ensure I’m absorbing things that nurture me and promote a sense of inner peace, clarity, and empowerment. Another essential practice is limiting my time on my phone, which has been really grounding and helps me be more present.

And how would you say this feeds into your songwriting?
My songs are deeply influenced by how I practice self-care in my own life. I strive to create music that uplifts, drawing on the messages and lessons that have guided me along my journey. By prioritising my own wellbeing, I’m able to channel that positive energy and wisdom into my music.

It seems like you’re very busy at the moment – with being a songwriter and a mother of twins -, but are you planning on touring the album at any point soon?
While I’m not planning a traditional tour, I do want to focus on more intimate, curated performances that align with the themes of wellness and connection. This past summer, I had the opportunity to perform at the wellness festival Mycelium, and it was such a meaningful experience. It reinforced my desire to create spaces where music and mindfulness intersect.

And when you’re out on tour, or playing shows, are there any particular essentials that you like to have with you to keep you going?
Water! So many times I forget to hydrate sufficiently, especially when I’m tired and rather reach for coffee.  

As we’re an organisation with a focus on supporting new and marginalised artists, I just wondered how you feel the industry is for them at the moment? And do you feel much has changed over the years in its treatment of female and queer artists?
I don’t think the overall mainstream industry has changed much, but marginalised artists are gaining more power by moving away from established systems and finding new ways to connect directly with their communities. For example, social media and independent platforms give artists the ability to build their following and engage with fans without relying on traditional gatekeepers. From my perspective, this decentralisation is important, as it allows greater autonomy and economic freedom.

And are there any other new artists that you’d recommend we check out at the moment? 
She’s not necessarily a new artist, as she’s already accomplished a lot in her career, but I highly recommend checking out Alysha Brilla. Her message of empowerment and healing really resonates with me. She has a unique sound that spans multiple genres and is always pushing boundaries with her art.

Huge thanks to Aisha Badru for speaking to us!


The Sun Still Rises, the new album from Aisha Badru, is out now via Nettwerk. Download / buy here.

mariangelicalaneLeave a comment

LIVE: Julien Baker – Earth, Hackney (19.11.2024)

A bitterly cold and wet Tuesday night in November; what better time to venture alone to immerse myself in some beautiful, emotion-filled live music… ? My first time at Earth in Dalston, I feel grateful to be able to see three such esteemed artists in this deceptively intimate space. 

After queuing in the rain for a while, I arrive in time to catch most of GIHE fave Katie Malco’s opening set. Reflecting on her recent US tour with Soak and her failings at booking appropriate / warm / safe accommodation, as well as all her gear going up in flames in a rehearsal space earlier this year, it seems she’s had a bit of a bad run of it lately, but this is no way takes away from her engaging charisma and charm as she delivers her captivating indie-folk ballads. Playing alone without a band, she still manages to create a rich scuzzy splendour and immersive gentle emotion with the sparkling heartfelt grace of songs like ‘Brooklyn’ and ‘Babette’ – the latter of which she normally sings alongside Soak, who is due on stage shortly. 

Touching on themes of self-discovery, queer identity and the housing crisis, Irish artist Soak delivers a set of new songs; each glistening with a stirring raw emotion. As their distinctive vocals float alongside lilting melodies, each offering tugs at the heartstrings with an achingly beautiful sense of nostalgia. Grateful I finally got to witness their delicately impassioned sounds live, I’m also left intrigued to hear more about the time that they were backstage on tour with Katie Malco and someone was “playing a saw like a violin and singing ‘Wonderwall’”… 

I’m not sure how I really expected to feel seeing Julien Baker live for the first time. An artist who I’ve listened to – and sought comfort in – probably almost every day for the last few years, my expectations and emotions were running pretty high. Amongst a crowd of predominantly young people accompanied by their parents, I wonder if it’s normal for a woman of my age to feel this much resonance with the music of someone like Baker, but as soon as she takes to the stage (beginning the set with my most favourite song), all worries cease and I’m instantly reassured. When music moves you this much, what does age matter? I’m a 38 year old queer woman and I need this beautiful aural catharsis in my life. As the swirling crescendo of piano and guitar soars throughout ‘Appointments’ alongside the melancholy raw emotion of Baker’s vocals, I feel my heart gently shatter and tears start to dampen my cheeks. But I also feel an unexpected sense of calm; a comfort in the relatability of the feeling and meaning behind the song – an unspoken sense of unity with the other damp cheeks I see glistening around me. And that is the beauty of music this honest and powerful; however old or young you may be, you can find comfort in what it has to say. 

Continuing to completely captivate the crowd with songs spanning her career, including the quiet desperation of 2019’s ‘Red Door’ and shimmering splendour of 2021’s ‘Relative Fiction’, Baker succeeds in immersing us fully. Although her anxiety is evident between songs – “Sometimes I get really nervous and can’t see my fretboard” -, when she’s delivering each heartfelt offering, her focus seems entirely intact, the raw emotive power of her vocals never faltering. And despite describing the experience as “like a stress dream”, I feel far from stressed at being able to bear witness to such exquisite musicality and refreshingly honest lyricism. In fact, I think there’s a subtle empowering strength to exposing one’s vulnerability through the stark emotion that emanates from each and every song. 

From crowd favourites like 2017’s ‘Shadowboxing’ to the glitchy whirring soundscapes of 2019’s ‘Tokyo’, each resonant lyric ripples with an effervescent grace. From the heartbreaking personal introspection of ‘Sprained Ankle’ to the fizzing lilting energy of ‘Bloodshot’, each sparkling melody gently takes hold, leaving 14 and 38-year-olds alike equally spellbound. 

Whether playing with or without her excellent full band, Baker succeeds in creating a soaring majestic splendour; a swirling raw emotion that envelopes her audience, offering a comforting catharsis. Having to leave the venue a few minutes early to catch a train, I realise it feels almost like leaving a therapy session; feelings have been shared, tears have been shed – I feel understood, I feel lighter. So, thank you Julien Baker for opening up to us, for creating music that is so honest and relatable; so soothing and empowering. So damn beautiful.

Words: Mari Lane / @mari_getinherears
Photos: Abi Chilton / @abi.chilton

mariangelicalaneLeave a comment

PLAYLIST: November 2024

The Get In Her Ears team have put together another mix of alternative, grunge & shoegaze anthems, eclectic electronic soundscapes, alt-pop tunes and indie-folk musings for your listening pleasure. Take some time to scroll through our selections below and make sure you press play on the playlist at the end of this post.

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

Kills Birds – ‘Behind’
Mari & I saw LA band Kills Birds live at Hackney’s Moth Club back in 2022, and I remember front person Nina Ljeti being a colossal force on stage. It’s great to see that the band are back with ‘Behind’, a seething new anthem and their first new music since their second album, Married (2021). Check out the accompanying video for the track here.
(Kate Crudgington – Features Editor)

Girl Tones – ‘Fade Away’
A proper stomper of a track from sister duo Girl Tones here! ‘Fade Away’ is their debut offering, produced by Brad Shultz of Cage The Elephant and released via his label Parallel Vision. The pair blend visceral riffs, propulsive beats and defiant vocals together to create this irresistible cacophony of noise. Watch the accompanying video here. (KC)

Sacred Paws – ‘Another Day’
After a five year hiatus, we’re super excited that London/Glasgow duo Sacred Paws have returned to our ears. We love everything that Ray Aggs does and were honoured to have them headline one of our gigs earlier this year, and now the revival of this project with Eilidh Rogers comes as a very welcome surprise. Reflecting on the theme of remaining positive in the face of heartbreak, new single ‘Another Day’ flows with the duo’s trademark lilting and uplifting energy and distinctive sparkling harmonies, whilst introducing a heartfelt folk-strewn sound with the inclusion of banjo played by Ray’s father. Apparently there’s more new music on the way next year, and we cannot wait!
(Mari Lane – Managing Editor)

Alien Chicks – ‘Babe’
I’ve been following Brixton trio Alien Chicks since Mari booked them for a GIHE gig back in 2022. Since then, their dynamic, blistering anthems have seen them support Mercury Prize winners English Teacher on their UK tour, and they’ve released their debut EP, Indulging The Mobs. ‘Babe’ is another antagonistic offering from the trio that playfully explores the idea that “we’re all masochists, politically and socially.” (KC)

Jæd – ‘Sight Gas Went Uh’
Another unique offering from London-based Irish-Puerto Rican musician Jæd here, taken from her debut album, I Loved The Gauntlet And There Was No Other Way. Set for release tomorrow (29th Nov) via cult Irish label The Delphi Label, the record is a visceral, eclectic cacophony of sounds inspired by the uncertainty and hardship that Jæd has lived through. She played a GIHE gig for us in October last year supporting Pixie Cut Rhythm Orchestra and we were all blown away by her stage presence, dynamic vocal range and guitar playing. ‘Sight Gas Went Uh’ is the perfect example of all three. Watch the accompanying live performance video here. (KC)

Eilis Frawley – ‘Fall Forward’
Having recently headlined for us at New River Studios as part of Kara Delik, Berlin-based musician Eilis Frawley has now announced the release of a new solo album in March next year. Ahead of the album’s release, she has shared title track ‘Fall Forward’. Interweaving whirring layers of sound, it combines glitchy electronics with Frawley’s distinctive poignant lyric storytelling and propulsive drum beats. Building with a searing sense of urgency to a glistening cacophony, it showcases Frawley’s ability to create innovative kaleidoscopes of sound. Fall Forward, the upcoming album, will be released on 7th March, and is co-produced by Frawley and Kat Frankie. Eilis Frawley will also be over in the UK for some live dates with her band next May – keep your eyes peeled! (ML)

M(h)aol – ‘Snare’
“‘Snare’ is about countless conversations I’ve had since my first drum lesson on my ninth birthday about how bizarre it is that I play that instrument, or how I should be doing it differently,” explains M(h)aol’s lead vocalist and drummer Constance Keane. “The idea of society gendering an inanimate object like a drum kit, when it’s something that brings me so much joy and release, has always frustrated me hugely, and I thought it was time to sing about it.” I’ve been a big fan of Irish post-punks M(h)aol since they released their debut single ‘Laundries’ back in 2020, and despite recent lineup changes, it’s great to see that the band have lost none of their momentum. ‘Snare’ is another potent anthem about autonomy and empowerment, delivered with the band’s trademark visceral grit. (KC)

Glixen – ‘Lick The Star’
I’ve loved everything that Phoenix shoegazers Glixen have released this year. Taken from their upcoming EP, Quiet Pleasures, which is set for release on 21st February 2025, their latest single ‘Lick The Star’ smoulders with longing, building from it’s gentle atmospheric intro into a potent wall of sound. (KC)

Brutus – ‘Paradise’
Belgian heavy trio Brutus are back with this majestic new track ‘Paradise’. Originally written for the Streamz Original drama series Putain, it’s full of the band’s trademark heavy riffs and drummer Stefanie Mannaerts’ impressive vocals. (KC)

Disarme – ‘Change’
I love this bittersweet debut single from Franco-Malagasy artist Disarme. Driven by a palpable but sublime sense of melancholy, ‘Change’ is inspired by the loneliness and disillusionment that can come from living in fast-paced, expensive city environments. Through her gentle vocals and evocative guitar riffs, Disarme attempts to soothe these pangs of anxiety. (KC)

Claire Pitt Wigmore – ‘Cerebellum’
Creating swirling slices of psychedelia, Margate musician Claire Pitt Wigmore and her band have recently shared new a EP. With lyrics reflecting on Claire’s experience of cancer and the treatment that follow, it fuses together elements of psych, shoegaze and jazz, it offers a stirring exploration of facing this immensely challenging experience at such a young age. Title track ‘Cerebellum’ fizzes with whirring hooks alongside Claire’s emotion-strewn vocals; an immersive introduction to what this new Kent band are capable of creating. (ML)

Janita – ‘Real Deal’
Inspired by two of her favorite films – The 400 Blows and Butch Cassidy and The Sundance Kid – this pop rock track from Finland-born artist Janita celebrates the joy of rebellion. It’s taken from her upcoming album, Mad Equation, which is set for release in May 2025. (KC)

Gay Skeleton Club – ‘W3t L3g’
London based queer DIY band Gay Skeleton Club formed at First Timers Fest last year and have been total faves of mine since they played live for us at Matchstick Piehouse in December. I just love their fizzing pop-punk sounds and quirky, tongue-in-cheek energy, and this track about the the infamous band that everyone seems to love to hate really is a total bop. It’s taken from the band’s new 7 track demos EP, and showcases the band’s raging, fun-filled spirit. I cannot wait to have them play for us again soon. (ML)

Roller Derby – ‘Emily’s Dance’
Hamburg dream-pop duo Roller Derby recently announced the exciting news that they will be releasing their debut album in February next year and have now shared the fourth single to be taken from it. Reflecting on the juxtaposed feelings of powerlessness and fascination in the face of the universe, ‘Emily’s Dance’ interweaves atmospheric dream-pop with shades of ‘80s synth-pop, creating a swirling, mystical soundscape. This new single is accompanied by beautifully animated video, perfectly encapsulating the essence of the track – have a watch here. When The Night Comes, the debut album from Roller Derby, is set for release on 28th February, and the band will be over in the UK for a little run of dates in May – nab tickets here. (ML)

Joni – ‘Avalanches’
Having toured with the likes of Laura Viers and Aqualung and written for many of the biggest names in pop, London-based American artist Joni has now shared her brand new single. Oozing a glistening emotion, ‘Avalanches’ offers a poignant reflection on the duality of love and heartbreak, as it flows with lilting melodies and heartfelt- sugar-sweet vocals. (ML)

All Cats Are Beautiful – ‘livin a life on splitscreen’
In 2021 London based duo All Cats Are Beautiful released their gorgeous mini album, The Things We Made. However, playing gigs and writing new songs then fell to the back burner when Ky from the band’s partner of ten years suddenly tragically passed away that same year. Now, three years on, Ky and Elena finally feel ready to share new music with EP, Just Kids; a heart achingly beautiful reflection on love and loss. The opening track from the collection, ‘living a life on splitscreen’ oozes a swirling emotion-rich splendour. As delicate electronic hooks and a twinkling rippling energy provide the backdrop for the vulnerability and raw emotion of its nostalgic reflective lyricism, it offers glistening shades of hope as it reflects on a roadtrip across LA that Ky took with their partner a year before the tragedy occurred. The rest of the EP delves into stark reflections on the pain that comes with losing someone you love intensely; as the band so perfectly put it: “grief is just love with no place to go”. Thank you to Ky and Elena for sharing such a beautifully cathartic and honest collection with us. (ML)

Dirt Flirt – ‘Dramatic’
The solo project of London-based multi-instrumentalist Kit Eaton-Kent, Dirt Flirt reflects on queer identity, playfully combining introspective lyrics with glitchy beats and a playful energy. Exploring the complexities of being your own worst enemy, new single ‘Dramatic’ showcases her rich emotive vocals with a swirling empowering energy, creating an instantly catchy slice of alt-pop. (ML)

Cults – ‘Onions’
New York duo Cults have just rounded up their EU & UK tour, in celebration of their most recent album, To The Ghosts. This track ‘Onions’ features on the record, fizzing with its playful synths and Madeline Follin’s honeyed vocals. (KC)

paun – ‘counterintelligence’
‘counterintelligence’ is the latest single from Berlin-based, non-binary electronic artist paun. They lean into “grimey, futuristic and IDM-inspired” territory here, with their elastic synths and twitchy beats. paun is currently working on a new EP, which will be released in the near future, so keep your eyes peeled for that. (KC)

Birthday Problem ft. Molly O’Mahony – ‘The Language Of War’
Another eclectic creation from Irish collaborative electronica project Birthday Problem here. Formed of Matt Harris and Rocky O’Reilly, ‘The Language Of War’ is their seventh single, featuring songwriter Molly O’Mahony. Her vocals float over sci-fi synth textures and twitchy beats, creating a commanding soundscape inspired by the paradoxical nature of war. (KC)

afromerm – ‘reciprocity’
This track from London-based artist and GIHE favourite afromerm is about the duality of balancing our inner and relational worlds; getting lost in thoughts, versus present, reciprocal care with those we love – a powerful concept that she treats with such grace and gentility. ‘reciprocity’ will feature on her debut three track EP, which is set for release in the near future. I love everything that afromerm creates and I can’t wait to hear more. (KC)

Elsa Hewitt – ‘White Mirror’
Another exquisite electronic soundscape from GIHE fave Elsa Hewitt, lifted from her upcoming album, Dominant Heartstrings. Elsa also released an album called Chaos Emeralds earlier this year, which is one of my favourite records of 2024. (KC)

Kathryn Mohr – ‘Driven’
The music of Oakland-based artist Kathryn Mohr is new to my ears, but I was instantly captivated by her otherworldly sound. This track ‘Driven’ is taken from her upcoming album, Waiting Room, which is set for release on 24th January 2025 via The Flenser. Mohr wrote and recorded the LP over the course of a month, within the walls of a disused fish factory in Iceland and surrounded by remote nature. The result is an intense rumination on the human condition, tethered together through her veiled vocals, field recordings and affecting instrumentation. (KC)

Penelope Trappes – ‘Sleep’
Newly signed to One Little Independent Records, I love this gloomy rumination from Brighton-based, Australian-born artist Penelope Trappes. Taken from her upcoming album, A Requiem, which is set for release on 4th April 2025, ‘Sleep’ is a reflection on the sublime power of nightmares and night terrors, with her haunting voice guiding listeners through her heavy atmospheric instrumentation. When I bumped into Penelope at Supersonic Festival in September earlier this year, she told me that she would be releasing this track and that the marvellous Maxine Peake and Kate Dickie would be starring in the accompanying video, directed by the excellent Agnes Haus. Watch it here. (KC)

MAUD THE MOTH – ‘Siphonophores’
Spanish-born, Scotland-based multi-instrumentalist Amaya Lopez-Carromero aka MAUD THE MOTH has shared this new single, alongside the announcement of her new album, The Distaff. Set for release on 21st February 2025, the LP is an “ethereal but violent” amalgamation of autobiographical experiences, folklore and Greek myth and poetry. ‘Siphonophores’ offers listeners a haunting insight into what they can expect from the record, filled with eerie keys, dramatic volume shifts and diaphanous vocals. Watch the captivating music video for it here. (KC)

Sharon Van Etten – ‘Afterlife’
Marking a new era with her band, long term favourite Sharon Van Etten has now announced the release of a new album, accompanying the news with an exquisite new single; an exciting taster of her new sound. Soaring with Van Etten’s distinctive rich, sumptuous vocals, ‘Afterlife’ builds with a celestial splendour to a soaring heartfelt anthem, tinged with shades of ‘80s Bruce Springsteen, whilst maintaining her own unique glistening raw emotion and innovative musicality. Sharon Van Etten & The Attachment Theory, The first album to be written and recorded in total collaboration with her band, is due out on 7th February via Jagjaguwar. (ML)

Julien Baker & Calvin Lauber ft. Soak, Quinn Christopherson – ‘Get Me Away From Here, I’m Dying’
After a few years of Julien Baker being one of my most listened-to artists, constantly seeking catharsis in the exquisite raw emotion and resonant reflections of her offerings, it was such a joy to finally see her live at one her five dates at Earth last week. And with beautiful support from Katie Malco and Soak, it really was an evening of (very emotional) dreams. I was there alone, in amongst a lot of teenagers and their parents, my heart gently shattering and tears falling down my silly 38 year old face throughout. For more eloquent words about the gig, a full review will be coming up on the website in the next couple of days. (ML)

Horsegirl – ‘2468’
With their second album due out in February next year, Chicago best-friend trio Horsegirl have now shared new single ‘2468’. Propelled by a jangly, playful energy, it showcases the band’s ability to interweave off-kilter sounds and influences into a perfectly scuzzy, musically rich taster of what’s to come on the upcoming LP. Phonetics, the new album from Horsegirl, is produced by Cate Le Bon and is set for release on 14th February next year. (ML)

Naima Adams – ‘Stay’
Described as “dub-fused percussive soul collision,” ‘Stay’ is the second single from South London-based artist Naima Adams. Her honeyed vocals and eclectic instrumentation fuse seamlessly together as she explores the difficulties of finding connection in everyday existence in the city. (KC)

Sunflower Thieves – ‘Same Blood’
This is the title track from Leeds alt-folk duo Sunflower Thieves latest EP, which is inspired by the strength of female friendship. Across five songs, the duo capture the shifts and nuances of long-term connections, shared experiences and growing pains, all underscored by their soft acoustic guitars and gentle vocals. (KC)

Aisha Badru – ‘In The Making’
Set to release her new album tomorrow (Nov 29th), Nigerian-American artist Aisha Badru offers beautifully stirring reflections on our life’s journey towards healing with a blissful charm and delicate effervescent grace. We recently caught up with Aisha about the album and her inspirations behind it, keep your eyes peeled for the interview over the next few days! The Sun Still Rises, the upcoming new album from Aisha Badru is set for release via Nettwerk. (ML)

May Payne – ‘Something Else’
Having received acclaim from Chris Hawkins on BBC 6 Music, and set to perform at the Royal Albert Hall tonight (28th Nov), young queer artist May Payne has been gradually garnering a large fan base since the age of 15 when they first started creating music while growing up in rural Dorset. With a delicate folk-strewn musicality, ‘Something Else’ showcases the rich sparkling grace of Payne’s exquisite emotion-rich vocals. It’s taken from recent EP release, High Demand. (ML)

Lauren Manning – ‘Melatonin’
For the past four years, South African born, London-based songwriter Lauren Manning has been working on her debut album. Set for release on 7th December, Four Walls blends all of her eclectic musical stylings together – indie, soul and jazz – and showcases her impressive vocal range. This single ‘Melatonin’ is lifted from the record, on which Lauren meanders through the restless thoughts that keep her awake at night. Lauren will be playing a headline gig in Peckham on 7th December to celebrate the release of Four Walls. Tickets and event details here. (KC)

Rattle – ‘Your Move’
Immense drumming duo Rattle first came to my attention when I saw them supporting The Julie Ruin at Koko in 2016, but since then they have released two albums and shared stages with other legends like Animal Collective and Thurston Moore. A spellbinding insight into rhythm and metre, new single ‘Your Move’ will immerse you in its mystical allure and tribal energy on first listen of each of its epic 15 minutes. Of the track, the band reflect: “The words Your Move might be about moving in an embodied way or freedom/movement/expression, but they are also an emboldening call to action…” (ML)

Bouche – ‘The King’
consistently centring queer, femme and other under-represented artists and DJs – Bouche has now shared a soulful new single. “The last song I’ll ever write about being disappointed or hurt by a man”, ‘The King’ offers an intimate reflection on relationships with a stripped-back jazz-tinged musicality and their soaring power of their pristine vocals. ‘The King’ is accompanied by a beautiful video, made in collaboration with Deniz Kavalali and incorporating elements of drag – Bouche makes their own drag beards out of their own hair! – an empowering ode to queer catharsis. (ML)

Emily Burns – ‘Die Happy’
This is the title track from British singer-songwriter Emily Burns’ debut album. Across twelve tracks, her confessional songwriting blossoms into an emotional catharsis for the artist, with ‘Die Happy’ showcasing her ability to create affecting indie pop anthems. (KC)

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