Over the last year rising Manchester-based band, Nightbus, have been carving out a unique style laced with dark undertones and influences from the past and present. Yet this sound is distinct to the northern trio and is what they call ‘Late-night music’.

Earlier this month, the band released their third track titled ‘Exposed to Some Light’, which is full of the sounds and sensations of high-speed, reckless after-hours. Opening with an addicting 80s-esque drum pattern, gritty chord progression and eerie synths, ‘Exposed to Some Light’ holds an unparalleled energy to a retro slasher film or 80s thriller. The band’s post-punk instrumentation crafts a perfect synergy with lead vocalist Olive Rees’ dramatic vocals, whose tone is reminiscent of Florence Welch or even a new age Siouxsie Sioux. Close your eyes, and ‘Exposed to Some Light’ transports you to a thrilling moment in the early hours, making bad decisions, and with total momentary freedom.The trio tell DORK how the track originated from a poem they wrote and since being shaped into the production it is today, has become a favourite during many of their live shows. 

Nightbus came together after teenage friends Zac Melrose (bassist) and Jake Cottier (guitarist and producer) began playing around with some tracks one summer and soon after they invited Melrose’s university friend, Rees (vocalist, synth player and guitarist), into the mix. The trio tell NME how their sound pulls on a host of influences, such as Joy Division, Fontaines D.C, New Order and The xx. Since working together and crafting their striking, cinematic sound they ironically call “electronic post-punk goth chic”, the band have attracted label attention leading them to their current four-part single release. They tell how these tracks hope to reflect the sensation of the chaotic Manchester nightclub scene, while also being fueled by a glum existentialism due to the UKs current political climate.

The Manchester band have been on a high in their first year which is set to continue, following a number of headline shows, festival appearances, and various features in NME, DORK, Clash and a BBC Introducing feature from Amy Lamé. 

Alongside Nightbus’ exciting four-part single release, are a host of shows spanning the next few months. More info here.