New Single: Effy ‘2011’
New Single: Effy ‘2011’ Shimmering with early-morning rave nostalgia, the latest twinkling track from London-based DJ and producer Effy is grooving up a storm. By Scarlett Stokes Currently Listening to: For me, a very specific feeling is associated with 2011. Specifically, the mundane, extraordinary fact of entering into double digits for the first time (and the rest of) my life. That feeling is difficult to put into words; optimism for the future, for the rest of my life in the two digit lane, coupled with a tinge of childhood loss at bidding farewell to being 9 years old. Nostalgia is the most apt description of that feeling and that time, and the Blackpool-born Effy captures precisely that in the title and contents of her latest tune. “2011” is an effort, according to Effy, to capture her euphoric early days of clubbing in Northern England. It is the oldest triplet on Effy’s latest EP, The Syndicate, released on the 15th of May. The EP itself is a tribute to that youthful exploration of club culture; a little bit of sleuthing (taking a look at the EP cover, photographing a silver cube of a club, and googling said music venue), revealed the real Syndicate Blackpool club, formerly (allegedly) the largest nightclub in the UK. The track is 2cb technicolor. It starts like a shorting livewire, with glittering abruptness; a snatching high-hat intro buoys the track upwards, with percolating bleeps and bloops heralding a glorious piano break, a joyous hat-tip to old-school house. The tune erupts into a conventional house chorus, perfectly shoulder-shimmying and danceable. Chopped-up, distorted vocals pepper “2011”, “2011” strikes two songbirds with one stone, contrasting classic, smoother rave sounds with hyper pop-esque harshness at times. It is reminiscent of another time, retro-futuristic, glimmering with optimism for daybreak after a particularly adventurous night out, and tinged with regret that, with the morning, comes a return to everyday life. The two other tracks on the EP, “Persuade” and “So Sound”, deserve a mention here, too – both acceptable, building songs, anchored in two-step and house influences, they better soundtrack a house party than a dancefloor. “2011” is heartfelt and zappy. It is perfect for an ambitious prees, a lively party, or nearing a jubilant dawn, provoking an innocent sense of déjà vu. You might also like ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗ Recent Posts ⋆⭒˚.⋆
New Remix: Nubiyan Twist ‘Reach My Soul (Bassline Version)’
New Remix: Nubiyan Twist ‘Reach My Soul (Bassline Version)’ British rave bubbles from “Reach My Soul – Bassline Version”. The second smashing single by Nubiyan Twist teases a classic rave album, brimming with textbook British sounds By Scarlett Stokes Currently Listening to: Bassline, somewhat predictably, lends its name to the distinctive bass that throbs under tracks. It induces a face-crumpling phenomenon known as “bass face”, and generally inspires a mindless, wobblingly good time. Nubiyan Twist’s latest single, “Reach My Soul – Bassline Version”, does precisely this. With a plinking, poppy four-to-the-floor beat, overlaying a burbling bass that thrums throughout the track, it is ridiculously fun. “Reach My Soul – Bassline Version” is the second single to be released in anticipation of Nubiyan Twist’s upcoming album, NT Soundsystem. The album, set to be released on June 13th, is the fifth from Nubiyan Twist, an electronic reimagining of their fourth album, “Find Your Flame”. This single comes hot on the heels of “Battle Isn’t Over – D’n’B Version”, and seems to set up the concept of the album: reconstructions of Nubiyan Twist tunes with an eponymous twist; tracks infused with classic sounds of British electronic music. Expect a sonic education in the history of UK rave culture. On rave culture history, Nubiyan Twist and bassline trace their roots up North. Sheffield, where the band hails from (although they now suffer the fate of many talented musicians, and are based in London), boasted Niche Nightclub, the epicentre of bassline, until a police raid led eventually to its closure in 2005. It seems fitting that, of all the tunes to herald Nubiyan Twist’s latest album, they chose a sonic sibling. That is not to say that “Reach My Soul – Bassline Version” bears any resemblance to Nubiyan Twist’s past sound, which is decidedly global (they count blues, soul, jazz, and afrobeat amongst their many influences). Rather, having a local favourite blast the path for their album, imbued with all the pluckiness of the old-school sound, is a nod to the rich dance music heritage this album seems to be elevating. In many ways, “Reach My Soul – Bassline Version” epitomises bassline. Take the archetypal feature of distorted female vocals on bassline tracks. Here, the chopped vocal samples are extracted from Aziza Jaye’s determined, sensual starring role in the original “Reach My Soul”. They are sped up, perceptibly pitched, but not quite to the level of nightcore. It is enough to lend “Reach My Soul – Bassline Version” a kick of energy, commanding instant response: feet tapping, heads bobbing. This is exactly the more poppy sound bassline was known for and built its following from. A note on the contrast here between the original tune and this latest instalment, “Reach My Soul” is a sultry, celebratory song of resilience and perseverance, dressed up with jazzy horns, seductive keys, and a cheeky, plucked guitar. It feels like sauntering into a smoky speakeasy, sexy, sly, and sincere. This version is far more playful – irresistibly moveable, demanding that listeners at least shuffle, it is borderline goofy in parts, especially when the bass receives proper treatment. But that’s the whole point of bassline – it is senseless, silly, and so, so fun. You might also like ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗ Recent Posts ⋆⭒˚.⋆
New Single: Dalia ‘Hanging by a Thread’
New Single: Dalia ‘Hanging by a Thread’ London based singer Dalia is back with the single ‘Hanging by a Thread’ just in time for summer. The track is an exploration of self discovery, realisation, and emotional vulnerability. By Natasha Judge Currently Listening to: ‘Hanging By a Thread’ is an experimental track that starts with a voice note, and then weaves this into the song as a motif throughout. Speaking on the tune, Dalia expressed that the track was written “during a period of intense personal turmoil”, as she noted that she was forced to confront repressed emotions. She said: “Hanging By a Thread chronicles the breakdown of a relationship weighed down by unhealed wounds.” The track is a pop ballad that celebrates and recognises the strength in vulnerability and emphasises the empowerment that can come from owning your tears and subsequent emotions. The song was a result of Dalia realising she was still tied to a past relationship whilst with a new love, and the fallout of the unresolved connection. ‘Hanging by a Thread’ unravels her inner monologue of feeling lost, confused and guilty. Musically, the melancholy lyrics juxtapose with the rhythmic base of the tune. There is a build-up of guitar strumming, paired well with percussion to provide an electric feel to the single by the end of the track. This pop track is an excellent portrayal of self-reflection, and coming of age, and the catchy chorus makes us eager to hear more of this new sound from Dalia. Dalia’s tracks would be well suited to fans of Holly Humberstone, Phoebe Bridgers and Gracie Abrams. You might also like ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗ Recent Posts ⋆⭒˚.⋆
New Single: Lip Filler ‘Laugh Track’
New Single: Lip Filler ‘Laugh Track’ Lip Filler prove indie-rock is no laughing matter with their new single ‘Laugh Track’ By Beth Gullliver Currently Listening to: Lip Filler’s new track is perfect in its unpredictability. The band, who first performed together on St Patrick’s Day in 2022, pride themselves on surprising the listener in live performances and in the studio, and ‘Laugh Track’ continues to encapsulate that energy. It’s fresh, sonically different to their previous EP ‘‘witchescrew’, and demonstrates the band’s willingness to experiment with genre-blending sounds. The south-east London quintet consists of Jude Scholefield and Verity Hughes on vocals and guitar, bassist Theodore Pasmore, Nate Wicks on drums and George Tucker who plays the keyboard and has adopted a front-man energy on vocals. Lip Filler met at various points throughout their education which explains why their musical chemistry is so tight. ‘Laugh Track’ is confident and begins with no instrumental, instead launching straight in with the lyric ‘Taking time to heal/ So, you’re dancing in the street/ To a silent song’. The indie-rock anthem builds to a deliciously whiny chorus of: ‘And it’s melting off/ In a drip/ On your block’. A stand-out lyric penned by the band and produced by St Francis Hotel – Declan Gaffney – is: ‘You’re turning all your pain into miracles/ It’s uglier than beautiful’. NME previously wrote: “Lip Filler have developed a reputation as a rowdy, sunny-side-up indie band imbuing their sound and their shows with pure chaos” – a notion that continues in their latest release. The track is likely to reach a fever-pitch live, with soaring vocals and an infectious beat that will please the band’s devoted fansbase. Lip Filler previously sold out multiple venues across London (including a gig hosted in their flat) and are set to perform across the country throughout April. If you want to witness their incredible energy live, be quick – you won’t want to miss the band’s rise to the top of London’s indie-rock scene. You might also like ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗ Recent Posts ⋆⭒˚.⋆
New Single: Matilda Rowe “Never Do”
New Single: Matilda Rowe “Never Do” An exciting debut track from London’s rising independent artist Matilda Rowe, Never Do is a fresh take on bedroom jazz mixed with neo-soul sensibilities. By Sophie Prior Currently Listening to: Centering in on Matilda’s rich and soulful voice, the track sees the artist exploring themes of self-resignation and singing of the frustration that comes along with never having enough time to do what we really want to. With relatable and honest lyrics accompanied by jazz-infused instrumentation, the single is creative, authentic, and marks an exciting start for the singer. Never Do opens with a smooth electric guitar progression with synth keys tinkling in the background, before a steady drum groove comes in along with Matilda’s honeyed vocals. With a distinctive sound developed over her many years of musical experiences, Matilda’s voice is captivating and her vocal runs and melismatic moments are effortless. Moving to the chorus, the beat moves to a slower, more syncopated rhythm, with a soulful horn tune added while Matilda sings ‘it’s another day, another sweat, another fight’ // ‘another change I’ll realise and make tonight’ // ‘another thing I’ll let myself aspire to, and never do’ // ‘and hate myself all a new’. The track becomes more experimental as it goes on, the energy growing as the singer scats and riffs and shows her vocal range and flexibility to the lyrics ‘I need more time’ while the band seem to jam and improvise. And as she is already known for being a great live performer, the track’s infectious energy is sure to be a hit on stage. Speaking on the influences for the track, Matilda notes Laura Marling’s New Romantic and Lianne La Havas’ Age for their repetitive guitar patterns and curious and honest lyrics. When it came to the instrumentation and production, Amy Whinehouse’s Help Yourself was the main reference track; another female artist that influences Matilda greatly. Never Do was produced by Gareth Finnegan and recorded at cult DIY studio, Total Refreshment Centre, in London. Written in the summer of 2022, the track’s release comes after years of hard work in the independent music scene: gigging in venues across London and the UK and building up a loyal following on social media. Matilda is part of a new wave of London and Dublin based artists who promote authentic creativity and finding your own sound – which she has definitely achieved with Never Do. Never Do is the first single from the artist’s debut album which is set for release in October this year. Talking about what we can expect from the rest of the album, the singer notes that the record ‘is raw and vulnerable and breaks boundaries of expectation consistently, in a way to capture life and humanity in its messiness’. Recorded in long form, the album hopes to take listeners on a journey full of catharsis, with lots of infectious melodies and great storytelling along the way. You might also like ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗ Recent Posts ⋆⭒˚.⋆
New Single: Låpsley “Hurricane”
New Single: Låpsley “Hurricane” 9 years since her debut record ‘Long Way Home’, Låpsley has consistently found success by crafting a version of ambient pop characterised by bold vocal manipulation and the seamless melding of synthesisers, skeletal drumbeats and delicate piano sections. By Callum Lidington Currently Listening to: With 3 full-length LP’s under her belt, she operates in a space that is accessible enough for the casual listener, but dynamic enough for serious listeners to dissect and find satisfaction in the instrumentals she creates. However her latest single ‘Hurricane’, reaffirms the shift to a new aesthetic and a new sound, bringing with it a distinctly free-spirited medieval energy, we’re talking chainmail, churchyards, ancient runes, bows and arrows. The track is accompanied by a Jeanne Buchi-directed video which sees Lapsley as this mythical enchantress-like figure on horseback surrounded by 40 nude men (it’s an intense watch, but there is no denying the commitment to the medieval vibes)! The track in Låpsley’s own words is “an unapologetic expression of the love from a woman. An omnipotent, unbridled love. A love that’s feared and revered. Pierce your flag into the ground to affirm. Love to return. Love for the sake of free will. Love in protest. Love in chaos. Love in peace. A wild, misunderstood magic.” Starting with a tenderly delivered acoustic ballad, which patiently builds to its final energetic crescendo the structure of the song is symbolic of the quote above, that longing feeling of wanting to share the love you have, the search for the right person, and the release of all the built up emotion once you find that love. This track along with previous singles ‘Church’ and ‘Better’ marks the start of a journey for Lapsley into uncharted territory, leaving her old self behind, and venturing into a new evolution of her artistry. Despite its differences from the last 9 years of Låpsley’s discography, the most welcome constant is her fantastic vocal performance and uniquely rich and soulful tone. Låpsley’s 4th full length record ‘I’M A HURRICANE, I’M A WOMAN IN LOVE’ will be released on the 2nd May through ‘Her Own Recordings’, a label founded by Låpsley, specifically for women and non-binary-led projects. You might also like ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗ Recent Posts ⋆⭒˚.⋆
New Single: MERE AMORE “MICROMAC”
New Single: MERE AMORE “MICROMAC” MERE AMORE just released their second single and now is the perfect time to become their latest fan. 3 April 2025 By Jamie Shovelin Currently Listening to: The self-proclaimed queer grunge band from Manchester are kicking off 2025 with a bang, releasing their sophomore single “MICROMAC”. The four-piece band are the latest to join the iconic Manchester punk scene and they are here to make a statement, this latest single discusses themes of discovering yourself in the current state of the UK and the challenges that come with that. The sound of the song echoes the Riot Grrrl movement and grunge scene, starting with a very in-your-face distorted guitar that sticks with you and helps to drive the point of the song home, with a drum breakdown as it comes to the chorus. The vocals and lyrics themselves stick out as it is an almost preaching style in the verses, calling out the political climate of the country, specifically calling out the lasting stain on the country left by the conservative party and that we need to fight for what you believe. With lyrics like “open your eyes with cocktail sticks” it is a truly straightforward way of them saying, do not turn a blind eye you need to see this, and MERE AMORE drive that point home perfectly. As the song ends repeatedly the vocalist tells you to “open your eyes”, telling you not to fall for the lies your told and then ends on a frustrated scream that a lot of fans will feel themselves when it comes to the issues brought up. This single comes across a lot more anger fuelled than their single PARANIOA without changing the sound drastically too different. MERE AMORE are truly helping to keep the riot grrrl movement alive and we cannot wait to see what they come out with yet. You might also like ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗ Recent Posts ⋆⭒˚.⋆
Lo Lauren releases new single ‘Rose & Jack’: A Heartfelt Ballad Steeped in Nostalgia
Lo Lauren releases new single ‘Rose & Jack’: A Heartfelt Ballad Steeped in Nostalgia Lo Lauren has steadily emerged as one of the most exciting new pop artists on the UK music scene, and her latest release, Rose & Jack, is a testament to her impressive range as a performer and songwriter. The track arrives as part of her upcoming EP, Wonderlust, which is set to drop on April 25, 2025. Known for blending 2010s pop influences with her own fresh songwriting style, Lauren’s music has drawn acclaim for its honesty, emotional depth, and infectious hooks. By Isaac phelan Currently Listening to: Rose & Jack is a heart-wrenching ballad that highlights Lo Lauren’s softer, more vulnerable side. Penned alongside longtime collaborators andysocialclub, Carys Selvey, and BlueGirl, the song reveals a stripped-back, emotionally raw performance. Lauren’s delicate vocals take center stage, gliding over gentle piano chords and subtle string arrangements that provide warmth without overwhelming the song’s intimate atmosphere. The track’s title nods to the iconic Titanic characters, yet rather than retelling the film’s story, Rose & Jack uses this reference to explore the emotional weight of a secret relationship — one filled with longing, passion, and unspoken connection. The storytelling feels deeply personal, and Lauren’s tender vocal delivery amplifies the emotional resonance. This sincerity shines through in her performance, as she taps into the vulnerability that makes the song so relatable. The accompanying music video wacks this feeling up to a hundred, depicting Lauren auditioning for the role of Rose, and ultimately failing to secure the role. It’s a remarkable narrative piece, and continues Lauren’s streak of producing high quality videos to accompany her music. For her previous single, Born To Run, Lauren spent three months learning the entire song backwards to create a stunning ‘reverse’ music video, a testament to her uncompromising artistic vision. Rose & Jack follows a string of successes for Lo Lauren. Her previous releases, Before The Kiss and Wonder, earned her significant industry recognition, including a feature on YouTube’s ‘Pop Fresh’ playlist and a coveted spot as BBC Radio 1’s ‘Future Bop’, chosen by Mollie King. Before The Kiss even caught the attention of Hollywood director Jordan Weiss, who featured the song in the trailer for her film Sweethearts on HBO Max. Beyond her recorded music, Lauren’s growing presence in live performances has cemented her as a standout act. After supporting acts like Mercer Henderson and playing a sold-out show at The Grace in London, she performed for 25,000 fans at The Hundred cricket event, sharing the stage with major stars such as Cat Burns, Zara Larsson, and Nell Mescal. As Lauren prepares to release her debut EP Wonderlust, fans can expect a project that captures the emotional highs and lows of navigating one’s twenties — a theme that resonates deeply in Rose & Jack. As anticipation inevitably builds for her long-awaited EP, Rose & Jack stands as a striking example of Lauren’s ability to craft deeply personal, yet widely relatable music. With a growing fanbase, notable industry recognition, and a clear artistic vision, Lo Lauren is undoubtedly poised to become one of the UK’s most exciting breakout artists. You might also like ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗ Recent Posts ⋆⭒˚.⋆
New Single: South Arcade “Supermodels”
New Single: South Arcade “Supermodels” Undoubtedly one of the most exciting emerging artists this year, South Arcade are continuing on a path forged in fire, unique to their inimitable sound and style. By Isaac Phelan Currently Listening to: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GOZPQvtDoa8 Produced by the band and mixed by Thomas Mitchener, ‘Supermodels’ is what happens when someone says, “Hey, what if we took 2000s pop-punk nostalgia, shook it in a glitter cannon, and fired it directly into our eardrums?” The track opens with vibrant guitar riffs that pay homage to early rock staples of Sum 41 or Avril Lavigne. However, South Arcade’s true strength lies in obliterating expectations. Before I’ve even secured my headphones on, the song erupts into an audacious dance break — chaotic, bass-heavy, and utterly infectious. Mitchener’s mix ensures each layer — from punchy drum hits to Harmony Cavelle’s commanding vocals — remains sharp and vibrant. The track balances inexorable grit with unprecedented accessibility, it’s sure to find a home in all major clubs this season. South Arcade said, “we wanted to push the limits of having a 2000s pop-punk accessible tune that then turns out to have the most obnoxious dance break in it. We just wanna keep doing things our listeners won’t expect from us but at the same time referencing y2k aspects in true South Arcade fashion. We also just wanted to write another really fun track especially with the lyrics on this one being so tongue in cheek. We can’t wait to play it at the festivals this year and see peoples reactions” The four-piece are set to have an unbelievable year, packed out with unmissable live shows and huge festival dates. Kicking things off with a sold out show in Manchester and KOKO, they are heading straight out on the road as the support for American singer songwriter and musician Bilmuri’s huge European Tour. But they are far from finished; as they are jetting off to the US with American pop-punk band Magnolia Park for over 25 dates. This Summer, they play Slam Dunk and Radio 1’s Big Weekend in May and following a riotous headline of the BBC Introducing stage in 2024, they were invited back onto the main stage at Reading & Leeds this year, sharing the stage with the likes of Limp Bizkit and Bring Me The Horizon. The four-piece are set to have an unbelievable year, packed out with unmissable live shows and huge festival dates. Kicking things off with a sold out show in Manchester and KOKO, they are heading straight out on the road as the support for American singer songwriter and musician Bilmuri’s huge European Tour. But they are far from finished; as they are jetting off to the US with American pop-punk band Magnolia Park for over 25 dates. This Summer, they play Slam Dunk and Radio 1’s Big Weekend in May and following a riotous headline of the BBC Introducing stage in 2024, they were invited back onto the main stage at Reading & Leeds this year, sharing the stage with the likes of Limp Bizkit and Bring Me The Horizon. Lead singer Harmony Cavelle added, “2025 is turning out to be a crazy year so far. I think we are in disbelief that we will be actually going to Europe and America this year and to top it off returning home to play some of our favourite festivals Slam Dunk, Radio 1’s Big Weekend and Reading & Leeds Festival!” You might also like ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗ Recent Posts ⋆⭒˚.⋆
New Single: Witch Fever “DEAD TO ME!”
New Single: Witch Fever “DEAD TO ME!” Witch Fever, Manchester’s resident post punk quartet have just released their latest single since their debut album in 2022, Congregation. By Jamie Shovelin Currently Listening to: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EjIgde_TFBI This latest single “DEAD TO ME!” kicks off 2025 for the band with a bang. The single may sound familiar to fans of the band since they have been playing it live for quite sometime now, but the studio version is finally here and paired with a kickass music video. DEAD TO ME! is set to bring in the new era of music from the band while still connecting to their past music, “a reintroduction to what we have represented, and a good path leading to what’s to come.” When listening to the single I could hear inspiration from their earlier stuff, especially songs like ‘Reincarnate,’ while still managing to give new life to their sound. The song draws from religious trauma and anger from the situations we grew up in and is used as an “fuck you” to that past, Lyricist/vocalist Amy Walpole also admits she uses it to release anger towards anyone in her life she thinks deserves it when playing the song live. Amy said: “When I’m playing it live, there’s a bunch of other people I’m thinking about who are dead to me.” And with lyrics like “You got a glimpse of all your sin, Dead to me, dead to me” sung with such anger and power repeated in every chorus, who can blame her? The song heavily reflects on all the pent-up anger every girl has faced from the stereotypical expectations of how they should act; quiet, sweet, complacent, and cute. Whereas the song and music video are the exact opposite of that, its loud, messy, and grotesque, with imagery of maggots and “un-ladylike” acts, it perfectly encapsulates the emotions and truth behind these memories and situations. And it’s not just the vocals and lyrics that make this song such a powerhouse. The song starts with a simple bassline from bassist Alex Tompson and is built onto by guitarist Alisha Yarwood, the mix of distorted guitar and heavy bass adds to the anger of the song and how that emotion can mess with your head, add to that the powerful double bass drumming from Annabelle Joyce and it’s like your thoughts have been brought to life instrumentally. If this single is anything to go by for their new era of music, I am very eager for the next release and hope they continue building this new sound they have found in their DEAD TO ME! Era. You might also like ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗ Recent Posts ⋆⭒˚.⋆