North-West Newcomers: Discover the best emerging acts from the North-West!
- BOOT - - - MUSIC
- Sep 22
- 30 min read
Updated: Sep 23
Discover some of the best new music from emerging artists in Liverpool, Manchester and all the beautiful places in between!
Sisters
The hauntingly cool five-piece outfit Sisters have developed a knack for channelling the essence of a hazy moonlight forest and an eerily familiar creature into breathtaking Alt Rock monologues. ‘Weird Angel’ serves as the Liverpool band’s second ode to fleeting spectres of distorted guitar efforts and curiosity-provoking lyrical stints, layered with other-wordly vocals akin to the likes of Wolf Alice’s own Ellie Rowsell and Björk.
The track’s looming breakdowns and flawless injections of spooky lead guitar make for an atmospheric showcase of the quintet’s artful eye for the unexpected and uncanny. It draws soul-stirring imagery with each bounding riff, and wistful cymbal.
As a sophomore single, ‘Weird Angel’ boasts a plethora of well-curated soundscapes that leer you into the darkness - moody yet ethereal flurries of weeping storytelling shine a shadowy light upon Sisters’ adroitness and musical maturity, cementing their place in the shoegaze fellowship with some force.
Words by Michaela Roper
Roscoe Street
Soaring to new heights, Liverpool-based Roscoe Street have been busy working on their latest single ‘Sunbleached’. The Funk Rock outfit blend various sounds and styles to create vibrant tracks, with 2025 looking to be their biggest year yet.
‘Sunbleached’ starts with an exciting riff and a slick blend of instruments. The band’s addition of a saxophone makes for a feel-good track, and the lyrics are captivating from the get-go. A song that makes you wish summer was a bit longer, the track’s beat is quick and compelling. ‘Sunbleached’ demonstrates how all aspects of Roscoe Street come together exceptionally smoothly in one of their strongest singles yet. The dynamic nature of this track will have you hooked throughout and is definitely worth a listen, with this single representing an exciting taste of what’s to come from Roscoe Street.
Words by Eve Waterhouse
Brides
To use their own words, Brides deliver ‘a big ol’ pint of Leche for your ears’ with the release of their new EP, ‘Leche’ consisting of six new tracks, each one individually crafted with a unique flavour. Frying up and serving an incredible delivery on stage at every venue they play, Brides are on tour once again to offer a refreshing drink of their eccentric new talent. In a predominantly alternative rock style, they harbour an undercurrent of both punk and grunge roots in their music. We were reminded of a slightly Lynchian approach to their image, particularly with ‘Creature Culture’, their lyrics conjuring visceral effigies of eerie decadence, with mention of white oak and whisky, accompanied by a deviously cheeky bass line.
Followed by the likes of ‘We’re out of Gravy’ and ‘Rebecca’, Brides shows off their raw guitar talent with a more rapid tune that increases their energy and an impressive riff. All whilst doing this, Brides do not hide their fun side with their introduction to ‘The Ballad of the Teapot’, which appears quite playful. And to tie it all together with their closing track, ‘Hideous Monsters’, which we found to remind us of tracks by We Lost the Sea, Brides completes their EP in a fashion that showcases their unbridled and chaotic, fun and surreal talent.
Words by Steph Stanbrook
Dollop
There’s a shimmering haze that hangs above the four-piece local outfit dollop and it simply just won’t go away - these boys are snappy, oozing with charisma, and channel a nostalgic 90s Britpop essence that truly scratches an itch for Grungy Indie Rock that boasts a pop-infused overlay.
dollop’s latest offerings of ‘A Dog Indoors’ and ‘Floating Voter’ are cementing their place in the Liverpool music scene, bolstered by shining live performances including our sold out headline with BITE. They may be the new kids on the block, but this quartet knows how to remaster the classic riffs and rhythms we know, love, and yearn for in the modern age.
By Michaela Roper
Lydia Prettyman
Blending intimate and raw lyricism with soft, nostalgic rhythms riddled with gentle nuances, Lydia Prettyman is rapidly forming waves across the Indie-Pop scene. The latest release of her EP ‘Feeling Everything At Once’ cultivates one of the purest gifts the ears could receive: a 5 track diary of emotional epiphany, expression, and admission.
Each track delves into the intricacies of navigating the longing complexities of love and self-sacrifice - a tribute that beckons sentiments buried close to all of our hearts. Lydia Prettyman is the unique epitome of Mancunian talent, the glorious representation we have all been waiting for, and you’ll only have yourself to blame if you miss it.
Words by Grayson Conlan
The Way Off
Following on from a hazy summertime debut single, The Way Off have returned with ‘Aside’. Calling to mind the stylings of Sam Fender and Junodream, the song’s fuzzy production combines a low battery audio experience with high energy playing. There’s a simplicity and directness to ‘Aside’. The Way Off are propulsive in their performance but defeatist in their lyrics: “These are the things that make you broken…my mother she knows it drags me over”.
Keeping with the defeatist tone, the vocals are delivered with passionate, exhausted boredom, borrowing the drawl of the Gallaghers and Fontaines D.C. Jangly guitars and crunchy drums enforce the throwback feel of the arrangement, keeping things light and frankly, danceable as hell. This is a song that has the feel of encapsulating a time yet to be remembered - a container for experiences that haven’t yet happened. In short, ‘Aside’ is the sound of nostalgia borrowed from the future.
Words by Jay Plent
Catherine Bullock
Folk is one of those genres that will be around forever, ebbing and flowing like the tide, coming back just when you’re forgetting the beauty of life. Catherine Bullock’s debut masterpiece ‘Readyset’ is here to bring folk back to us once again, with silky guitar, sweeping strings and an adoration for the ordinary.
They yearn for the human experience, “finger prints on clay”, “worn jumpers” and “her body”, told in a light, airy, voice, the kind you use when speaking to the ceiling in the early hours. It's a little Adrianne Lenker, a little Phoebe Bridgers, a tune for the nights when you’re surrounded by too many pillows to hear anything except the music coming from your headphones. There is a tender intimacy about it, one which will linger, joining the collection of folk songs that slip back into your mind in the middle of the night, reminding you of the beauty of the ordinary.
Words by Esme Morgan-Jones
alright (okay)
Beginning with a standout guitar hook, alright (okay)’s newest single ‘good friend (he was)’ feels like the ultimate opening, a track that would welcome you perfectly into any album.
Following an ambush of quick bass riffs and drums that begin subtle but grow louder, about a minute into the track the song completely changes. The start of the single suddenly feels like a build up or an artful tease ahead of the main body. Dancier guitar becomes the forefront of the song while raspy vocals lace it with a more intense feeling. ‘He was a good friend of mine’ lead singer howls in a voice that's reminiscent of Sports Teams vocalist.
Despite this only being their sixth release, alright (okay) have already gained a mass of attention from playing shows across the North West. Sounding somewhat Punk yet very Alt-Rock their music isn’t overly pollised or overly produced, it’s raw and authentic, exactly what the music industry has been craving.
Words by Izzy Hayden
Anna Lynch
Blossoming onto the scene with her debut single ‘Wake Up’, is an artist who blends mellow and gritty just as well as she blends buttoned blazers with lacey skirts. Singer-songwriter Anna Lynch has arrived with bluesy guitars and drum beats that put a swing in your hips almost before they reach your ears. With a voice whose crisp contralto evokes the funky divinity of Amy Winehouse, Anna offers us a song celebrating personal power, change and the confidence to embrace it.
As Anna herself said “it is hopeful and empowering”. Underlined with bouncy bass plucks and layered eloquently with dreamy harmonies, jubilant trumpets and the catchy outpour of feeling that defines Soul Pop, this song picks you up for three minutes, floods you with jazzy endorphins and places you back down, refreshed with the affirmation that “my life can be all that I dreamed it might”.
Words by Maili Jordan
SPLINT-R
The new single from SPLINT-R, ‘Chicken Joe Dad’, kicks off with a rush of late ’90s and early 2000s American Punk energy. The buzzing guitars and brisk tempo channel the spirit of Blink-182, but the track quickly carves out its own space thanks to a slick electronic riff cutting through the mix. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference, giving the song a spark that feels both nostalgic and new.
The lyrics are playful, good-natured, and catchy. ‘Chicken Joe Dad’ is proof that SPLINT-R can nod to Punk’s roots while adding a modern twist, creating something as fresh as it is familiar.
Words by Thomas McEvoy
Olivia Booth
Having earned airplay by BBC introducing and been hailed as ‘One to watch 2025’ by XS Radio Manchester, Indie artist Olivia Booth has released her new single ‘Mind’ to add to a discography of emotionally charged and energetic tracks. ‘Mind’ is immediately addictive, opening with spurring drums and powerhouse vocals to reflect Olivia's Soul-rock influences.
As Olivia herself described in a Facebook post, the drums are what brings this song to life. They mimic the kinetics in her lyrics “heart rate is spiking”, propelling the song onwards into a triumphant chorus. Booth’s lyrics describe the resilience of overcoming anxiety and embracing the unknown fearlessly. With Rock infused melodies and compelling vocals reminiscent of bands like Paramore, Olivia Booth transcends the boundaries of genre and creates an anthemic, uplifting sound that we will be listening to on repeat.
Words by Mary Rossiter
Tender Claws
Following four engrossing singles, Tender Claws offers her latest track, ‘Disappear’. Sauntering in with punchy guitar growls, the drums lay a steady thump while the guitar flirts with the minor key to give it a charming, gothic pulse. Tess Corr’s brooding vocals ooze in with the same eery sentiments as her previous singles: “hidden from sight/contrived exterior/unthinkable acts”.
Sudden stabs of the piano quicken our pulse as the chorus crashes in and soon our “Sense of time is slipping out of gear”, the rumbling drum fills adding to this panicked momentum. The lead electric offers eery and elaborate solos throughout, lurking behind the central melody like the very presence that the lyrics anticipate: “you’re getting too close I fear”. Foreshadowed by the single’s artwork, seeing Tender Claws’ hooded figure within a graveyard, this track brings us to a place of spooky Rock n Roll that we don’t want to leave.
Words by Maili Jordan
Dan Napper
Following the release of his heartfelt debut single 'Chasing', Liverpool-based singer-songwriter Dan Napper returns with 'Nightfall', a gritty electrified track with a Rock-driven sound. While 'Chasing' was a romantic, acoustic ballad, 'Nightfall' explores the turbulence of forbidden love and the emotional conflict of wanting someone who you cannot have, told through a hard-hitting electric guitar tone mixed with raw, open lyricism that gives the track its edge.
Dan cites his inspirations on his website as 2000s Soft-Rock and Pop icons such as John Mayor, Maroon 5 and Ty Myers, alongside his mission to ‘bring back electric guitar music to the mainstream’. With just 2 singles, Dan Napper is already crafting a distinctive sound, bridging classic guitar-led songwriting with modern Pop sensibilities. 'Nightfall' cements his potential as an artist ready to carve a bold new space in today’s music scene, and it’s clear we’ll be hearing much more from him!
Words by Angel Cox
Sundown Marathon
An exciting new track from an exciting Liverpool band, Sundown Marathon’s latest single ‘Better About You Now’ encapsulates a refreshing nostalgia. Since the group’s formation in 2022, they have released a number of impressive singles, including a debut EP last year. ‘Better About You Now’ is a demonstration of sound developed over the years. Sundown Marathon’s influences such as Inhaler and Biffy Clyro shine through in this track, providing a contemporary sound with a classic indie rock vibe.
A song about closure and acceptance, contrasted with an upbeat tone, creates a piece that elevates a sense of freedom and relief. The energy of this track is undeniable, catchy and uplifting, heavy instrumentation powers the song, making ‘Better About You Now’ a great listen regardless of your preferred genre. Having treated Liverpool’s underground scene for a number of years, the four-piece shows promise with every new release, hinting at even broader horizons.
Words by Cormac O'Carroll
Pomonoa
Pomona, a Manchester-based group, launch their debut EP with a promising first single that swerves neatly between Punk urgency and emotional weight. ‘Double Yellows’ kicks off fast with a tight guitar riff and shouty vocals with a megaphone edge, charging toward familiar Punk terrain.
“Where do we go from here / listen to me now”, they ask, a fittingly existential lyric for a first release. But it’s what happens after the two-minute mark that elevates the track. The tempo drops, and a melancholic stillness takes hold before the band slowly winds the tension back up. The final burst feels earned, cathartic and just a bit heart-breaking — proof they’re aiming for more than just volume and attitude. It’s a head-banger, yes, but one with a cracked emotional core. For a debut, it’s confident, textured and leaves us wondering what else they’ve got up their sleeves.
Words by Thomas McEvoy
Keyside
It’s no secret that the Liverpool music scene has been home to some of the best upcoming artists recently but Keyside take things to a whole new level. The Indie group have been producing banger after banger gaining them a dedicated fanbase. Just when we thought things couldn’t get better, new release “If You Don’t Try” proves they haven’t yet passed their peak or possibly even got close to it.
Blissful guitar opens the track crafting a summery, nostalgic feeling which intertwines with Dan Parker's vibrant vocals making the single immediately burst with charisma. “If you don’t try I guess you’ll never know” Parker announces, his vocals commanding alongside lively riffs making the music refreshing. After every chorus the guitar lines become raw and authentic, reminding us of Keyside’s immense talent for creating festival-ready tracks. The lyrics grapple with an important message of defeating self-doubt and always giving things a go which blends perfectly into the high-spirited track where once again we see Keyside turning real life struggles into an Indie-Pop hit.
Words by Izzy Hayden
Moss Side Sauna Club
Moss Side Sauna Club serve up a slice of chaotic goodness with new single ‘My Weird Appetite’. The Manchester trio blend Electro Pop and Indie into something dancefloor-ready and weirdly irresistible. A pulsing bassline kicks things off before the track breaks open into a melodic chorus that acts as the heart of the song, offering a dreamy contrast to the glitchy energy around it.
Vocals weave in and out, while the bass and drums push the track forward with restless momentum. The percussion, in particular, shines through, sharp and clean without overpowering the mix. It’s a track full of texture and movement, the kind that keeps shifting just when you think you’ve got it pinned down. Moss Side Sauna Club sound confident, playful and totally in their element. ‘My Weird Appetite’ is chaotic, catchy and made to be heard loud.
Words by Thomas McEvoy
Florentens
Having gained a cult following playing in gritty independent venues across the North, The Kairos have finally treated fans to their debut EP, putting some of the crowd favourites down on record so we can still enjoy Florentenes even when we're not packed into a sweaty live show. The EP kicks off with thumping energy of ‘The Gun’. From the very first moments, as thick riffs blend with big punches, you can tell that this track is going to be ferocious anthem. The sharp guitar work and instrumental interplay rings of Arctic Monkeys while the raucous vocals and huge energy are reminiscent of Rock greats as well as fellow contemporaries on the North-West scene such as The Kairos.
‘Fuel for the Flame’ follows with a greater poignant depth, churning out raw emotion in the lyrics which are especially impressive when you discover it was written by frontman William Smith at 16. We're then thrust back to dirty dancefloors and Indie moshpits with the unforgiving energy of ‘What It Takes’ before the EP closes with ‘Miss Understands’, a feel-good indie anthem perfect for singing along to at summer festivals. Indeed you can catch them at NBHD Weekender and Golden Touch festival this summer so don't miss out!
Millie Ady
Independent singer-songwriter Millie Ady returns with new single ‘Blood Rush’, an evocative Folk-Rock inspired ballad. Ady is an independent musician hailing from Liverpool, first emerging in 2023. Her signature soulful voice and delicate lyricism come together on this deeply vulnerable track, alongside her powerful five-piece band who have produced a stunning instrumental that allows her voice to shine.
The lyrics of ‘Blood Rush’ discuss a ‘secret lover’, a vulnerable topic that would be gut-wrenchingly relatable to many listeners who are invited to imagine their own heartaches through her whimsical, dreamlike lyricism. Her raw lyrics and Folk-Rock instrumentals may appeal to fans of artists such as Phoebe Bridgers or Adrianne Lenker. With just four single releases so far, Millie Ady already shows remarkable promise, and we will certainly be looking forward to hearing more from her!
Words by Angel Cox
Muddy Elephant
Manchester’s Muddy Elephant release new single ‘Picture of You’, which joins their expansive discography. Following support slots for The Hunna and The Darkness, as well as selling out iconic venues like The Cavern. Muddy Elephant are set to bring their house party inspired Indie rock to everyone’s playlist.
Thrashing drums signal the start of the song whilst, the guitars paint an atmosphere. The vocals come in composing the rest of the band. Backing vocals support the claim of the house party. A breakdown halfway through conveys a night coming to an end, before another drink perks you back up when the band comes back in. The 2010s indie scene has clearly rubbed off on the band creating a fresh and sentimental sound. A tune to go straight in the playlist.
Words by Bryn Evans
Mins
Liverpool-based artist Mins, from the Netherlands, continues to show potential with his debut EP, ‘SkinDeep’. One of the standout tracks is titled ‘Marylin’ and encompasses feelings of reflection, confusion, and yearning. The song transitions smoothly from relaxed R&B to an epic electronic breakdown, closing out, representing the gradual tension of heartache that builds towards an emotional explosion when hope is lost.
The overall production and structure of the track resemble that of a seasoned performer in the genre, Mins is already on his way to stardom. Self-proclaimed ‘bedroom slop’, Mins’ bedroom studio acts as a creative centre, channeling lived experiences and feelings into his music from a place of personal resonance. We strongly recommend you check out ‘Marylin’ and the rest of the EP; you will not be disappointed.
Words by Cormac O'Carroll
Televised
The effortlessly cool debut release from fresh-faced, four-piece Indie Rock outfit Televised encapsulates everything we know and love about punchy guitar riffs, and anthemic lyrical work. The band’s first single ‘West’ oozes with a sense of charisma, and blends euphoric sonic injections with gritty verses. The track doesn't shy away from showcasing impressive textural planes that work so harmoniously alongside each other.
Televised navigate flawless breakdowns with such heightened musical maturity. Carving a new path into the modern histories of Indie Rock is no mean feat, but these Manchester rockers are offering a seamlessly produced, toe-tapping track that steps out of the box and right into the limelight. Propelled by the energetic vocals of frontman Sam Cutting, their debut boasts soaring psychedelic rhythms, sharp drum efforts and an exhilarating soundscape which yearns to be plugged in and played loud. These boys know their way around a riff or two, that’s for certain.
Words by Michaela Roper
Yasmin Coe
Manchester songwriter Yasmin Coe is bringing girly power pop back and we can’t get enough! Her newest release ‘Blink Twice’ combines soft, whispery vocals with moody drums, creating a mysterious and absorbing listening experience. The cover art, created by Ella Roberts, promises a sleek and sultry sound and the track does not disappoint.
The distortion on the guitar adds grit emphasizing the emotive impact of the lyrics and helping the listener to resonate with the heart of the song. Yasmin is one of the most promising songwriters in the North-West and definitely an artist to keep an eye out for.
By Anna Whiteley
Snowdrop
A yearning sense of nostalgia flows through Snowdrop’s newest track ‘This Is The Life’, a gently crafted scrapbook of the classic Indie Rock arbiters stamped with a charming, youthful twist. The song comes from their debut EP 'Seek Grace' which showcases the four-piece outfit’s charismatic demeanour whilst still offering up some well-rounded, toe-tapping instrumental work.
Snowdrop may have been born out of an unsuspecting small town in Cheshire, but their soundscape falls nothing short of big, beaming and boisterous. Over on vocals, Ryley Johnson breaks through the fuzzy stream of rhythm guitar to tell tales of past loves and teenage dreams. Dylan Evans smashes onto the scene with effortless work on the drums, providing the beating heart of the track as it scurries between breakdowns. Songs from the EP like ‘This Is The Life’ and 'Angel In White' wouldn’t sound out of place on a festival stage. Sam Waring’s charging guitar solo closes out the track with a punch - a crescendo that is destined to get crowds going, heads nodding, and everyone seeking more from these up-and-comers.
Words by Michaela Roper
The Sukis
The Sukis have once again proved that their electrifying, contagious melodies are rapidly taking over the North West with the latest addition to their growing discography, ‘To No One’. In the wake of a two-year stretch in which The Sukis stepped back into the shadows to hone their infectious soundscapes, it’s safe to say they’ve made an explosive return this well-rounded, effortless ode to generational change with a razor-sharp Post Punk edge.
The Indie Rock trio wear their hearts on their sleeve lyrically and instrumentally throughout the track; glimmeringly bright guitar rhythms form a cocoon around sentimental vocal stints as singer Tige Burns ebbs and flows through tales of love, loss and desperation. ‘To No One’ showcases an essence of musical maturity, infused with an energetic, youthful excitement that just can’t be replicated. It’s playful, punchy, and brims with self-reflective nostalgia - bound to make waves beyond the familiarity of the North West scene.
Words by Michaela Roper
Dr Orange
Scouse sensation Dr Orange has peeled back the layers in his newest single ‘I Took the Call’, taken from his upcoming collaborative EP ‘Dr Orange & Friends’. In this Retro Indie track, mellow pop meets raw honesty, as the quiet despair that bubbles beneath surface success, makes itself known.
The track opens with a slow instrumental build up which then pulls back for a beat to allow Dr Orange’s unembellished vocal style to lay bare the weight of his lyrics. The striking emotional contradiction of “I got it all so why do I feel so small” captures the core sentiment of the weighted lyrics, made all the more poignant through the ethereal layering of the female harmony that adds a softness to the track.
There is a seamless transition between the varying sections of ‘I Took the Call’, keeping the emotional intensity of the track consistent. As we near the three-minute mark you can hear the pace slow as the opening instrumental build up is reintroduced before leading into a rich, harmony layered chorus that repeats until the song’s conclusion. If this is the call, we are more than happy to pick up.
Words by Beatrice Wright
People Person
The overwhelming feeling in life when you are trying not to lose your step, while everything around you is changing - your job, friends, city, and even your sense of self. This is something many of us know all too well and the Alternative Rock outfit People Person haven’t just captured this feeling in their latest single ‘Footing’ - they have created something that walks you through it, offering a track that can steady your footing when things might feel uncertain.
This dynamic quartet have delivered a track that almost feels conversational at points, carried by Adam Grealish’s raw and striking vocals that capture a vulnerability and almost confession-like narrative. Through Adam's vocals and guitar, Max Ritchie on bass, Blake Grimshaw on guitar, and Nat Coop on drums, an introspective yet anthemic journey has been created. The guitar, acting like the track’s spine, is both patient and purposeful. There is a restrained strumming when the lyrics need space to enter, then it rises in waves once again to carry the rock-driven energy.
Words by Beatrice Wright
Miles Temp
You have just moved cities, you meet a boy around a bonfire that you were on the fence about going to anyway, and you end up oversharing about past lovers, as you so often do. That boy is Miles Temp, and you can imagine that his story would be something similar to his new single 'Before You' (Out April 25th).
There is something hazy about the harmonisation of the vocals, and the guitar hangs over them like an unfinished sentence, never quite resolving, a whispered sentence partially drowned out by distant chatter.
These lyrics have a vulnerability about them, almost as if you should walk out of the room when it comes on, and yet the warmth in his hypnotic voice make it crystal clear that this song is for you. It is captivating, a story that yearns to be heard, a story that longs to be told, a story that should be repeated around bonfires, to boys that you’ve only just met.
Words by Esme Morgan-Jones
The K's
Warrington Indie outfit The K’s recently released their new single ‘Gravestone’ in preparation for their sophomore album ‘Pretty On The Internet’. Thought-provoking lyrics and head banging drums make it an instant anthem.
‘Gravestone’ is different to previous tracks released as the drums pair with the lyrics during the verses and chorus rather than a catchy guitar riff, which creates an infectious melody. The song emphasises Jamie Boyle’s need to feel like his legacy isn't temporary. The need to "earn my place on the coffin of my gravestone" reflects his desire to be remembered and encapsulates the search for validation of one's existence that many of us so desperately want ourselves. The K’s are currently two for two regarding the two released singles so far, as we believe this will be a fan favourite when their album ‘Pretty On The Internet’ releases on June 27!
Words by Ted Flower
Drew Frield
The woozy sun-soaked sound of Drew Friel’s newest track is packed with the classic arbiters of anthemic Indie Pop whooshes we all know and love. ‘Sun In Your Eyes’ promises a synth-laden adventure, hidden within an air of tenderness and longing. Drew Friel’s vocal work is destined to tug at the heartstrings of fans enamoured by the likes of Inhaler and Circa Waves.
Sentimental lyrical stints are encompassed by a bright, electrifying instrumental cocoon that promises nothing but toe-tapping euphoria and wide smiles. It’s easy to place this track on a festival setlist; it’s a quickening affair, pulsating with raw honesty and nostalgia. The Manchester-born, Merseyside-based singer-songwriter offers clean production lines and crisp vocals throughout ‘Sun In Your Eyes’ whilst maintaining an essence of brotherhood. It feels familiar, warm, and ticks all the boxes of a soul-stirring Indie Pop anthem.
Words by Michaela Roper
Super Market
Prolific Manchester duo Josh Super and Jack Market have once again treated fans to another satirical Funk-Punk single. Making this their fourth release as a band, ‘Cereal’ provides another nuanced take on sociopolitical goings on. An upbeat yet educationally liberating silliness fills the track, reminiscent of bands like Gang Of Four as well as fellow Mancunian newcomers vincent's last summer.
References to insecure materialism, corporate preppy and the hard slog that is an unrelenting 9 to 5 display the band’s rightfully spiteful attitudes to postmodernity’s capitalistic pitfalls. Don’t let 'Cereal’s daunting themes scare you; the song is turning porridge people into Cheerios chaps. Funky instrumentals and a chorus that literally makes you want to "Get up! And eat your cereal". This song is equipped with a fun vibe that can get anybody out of a bad morning, sharing distaste for the working world while celebrating one of our favourite snacks.
Words by Cormac O'Carroll
Keyside
Scouse quartet Keyside have released their new EP, ‘Michael (What’s Your Call?)’. The EP includes fan favourites ‘Runaway’ and ‘Rhianna, Please Don’t Cry’ alongside new tracks ‘Michael (What’s Your Call?)’ and ‘High to High’. The raw and captivating title track speaks to a social conscience, an awareness that lies just beneath the uplifting melodies that drive the song home. ‘Runaway’ packs a punch from the get-go with a guitar riff that sets up the track beautifully for the catchy and relatable chorus. Similarly, ‘Rhianna, Please Don’t Cry’ recognises the band’s brilliant and diverse talent.
Notably, the EP’s lyricism stands out as profoundly thoughtful and relevant, as seen in ‘High to High’. A set of songs that take you through every emotion, Keyside speak a universal truth about lived experience. A powerful EP, Keyside are going from strength to strength and are undoubtedly a band to have on repeat.
Words by Eve Waterhouse
Hannah Mazey
Calm, reflective and characteristically jaunty, Hannah Mazey's new single ‘I’ll Be Fine’ manages to be an easy and pleasant listen whilst covering deeply personal issues relating to anxiety and overthinking.
The song mediates between an almost placid sorrow and sounding like the sort of thing you’d listen to whilst sitting in a field cloud watching. We begin with modulated chords and set back vocals, all to usher in an all round charming mix of strummed acoustics, well formulated bass lines, casual ride grooves and modest guitar melodies. Hannah’s vocal performance is captivating, wonderfully understated with a tinge of sadness, it binds the song together. ‘I’ll Be Fine’ is yet another one of Hannah's works that solidifies her as one of the most exciting emerging acts in the North-West. Make sure to catch her headline show at the Deaf Institute, Manchester on the 28th June.
Words by Fred Roberts
Sugarstone
With their first release of 2025, Sugarstone are not holding back. ‘Mature Themes’ blends suave ‘90s Rock-esque production with heavy-hitting breakdowns, rhythmically mesmeric vocals, and a dark electronic backdrop that pulls the track together. This track has it all: lyrics that hypnotise, pulsing synths, gritty guitar work, and heavy yet sharp instrumentation, all culminating in a rough and ready frenzy of infectious sound.
Shades of Nine inch Nails and Muse with a stylised uniqueness, the release is a masterful display in Sugarstone’s personal output – carving out an untapped space in the Alt-rock/New-wave sphere. This is a strong performance from a band coming into their own and refining their sound, pushing boundaries, and entering 2025 with well-earned confidence. ‘Mature Themes’ embodies a bold expression of the Manchester-based quartet’s uncompromising vision, leaving listeners yearning for more.
Words by Cormac O'Carroll
Dee Rae
Beautifully gentle, Dee Rae’s new single ‘Purple and Red’ is pensive, bittersweet and impressively poignant. Essentially pick a descriptor akin to ‘melancholy’ and it’ll aptly describe this song's superb tenderness.
A more low-key showing comparative to Dee's previous work, the song builds around a softly picked guitar, breathy vocals and droning strings. Despite the deep, brooding strings, the song maintains a light and airy quality that is as pleasant as it is moreish. The louder breakdown section is welcome yet fleeting, with the chords working alongside the drums to move in a rather satisfying manner towards the resolution. ‘Purple and Red’ is brilliant, there’s no two ways about it. For a small pool of releases, Dee Rae’s discography displays a great deal of variation and some fantastic songwriting. Another exciting release from an exciting artist.
Words by Fred Roberts
Paint Me In Colour
The film is reaching its peak, the deciding moment, the fork in the road where the protagonist has to beat unimaginable odds. The soundtrack that accompanies it is 'Happy', the new single by Liverpool based Alt-Pop powerhouse Paint Me In Colour. It is a raw expression of anger: at an ex, or a celebrity, or the world, or, I would imagine, whatever you’re angry about. Paint Me In Colour, wrap the listener in a protective cocoon, give you a pillow to scream into and an ice cream tub to cry over and allow an unbridled rage to escape their audience.
Inspired by the likes of Paramore, they have unapologetically brutal lyrics weighing heavy on a swamp of guitar chords. It is a proper movie soundtrack, the choruses pushing the songs towards the teetering edge of madness, the guitars coming crashing down over the top of a thrashing drum kit. We are left on this precipice, somewhere close to insanity, longing for more. So help us, Paint Me In Colour...you're our only hope.
Words by Esme Morgan-Jones
freyahopedixon
freyahopedixon shows us how highly flammable the nature of love can be in her new single ‘barrel of gasoline’. You’ll be surprised with how much melancholic sweetness she can sing the introductory lines “I am a barrel of gasoline and you are the flame; I don’t know why I’m like this I’m sorry to complain”, a type of self-doubt that goes to the core of one's heart. This song dedicates itself to the quiet, persistent nagging of your mind, while recognising that some people may ignite your emotions as quickly as fire does in combination with gasoline.
The overall feeling of a deeply sad nostalgia is present through a simple instrumental arrangement, basically consisting of soft synths, acoustic guitar, piano and later gentle drums. Freya’s powerful, heavenly melodic vocals flow through the song and immerse you into its world. At one point they are shortly replaced by a reassuring voice note, right after she sings “I heard your voice. [...] I realised it's gone”, just as if this voice note is the person believed to be lost, checking in after a long time of no contact and not realising the pain they may have caused. ‘Barrel of gasoline’ has the power to give you comfort if you experience such pain.
Words by Anna Naumenko
France, You’re on Your Own
Liverpool Alt-Pop duo France, You’re on Your Own have released a new single, and while it may be short it most definitely packs a punch! Seamlessly combining a simple yet effective acoustic guitar riff with a pounding, passionate drumbeat, the song perfectly encapsulates the feeling of loving somebody so deeply that you want to scream it from the rooftops.
The lyrics of the song further add to this, with heartfelt lines like "Oh my God, I love you babe/ Oh my God, I need you to stay" delivered through raw, anthemic vocals clearly showing the overwhelming depth of emotions that the narrator feels. While it’s not your typical love song, it’s incredibly clear that Mayan Jeroen and Ciaran Francis Dooley have laid their feelings bare and created a song that well and truly speaks from the heart. It’s truly an unforgettable song, and we can’t wait to hear what the band does next!
Words by Sue-Joyce Headon
Iona Summer
Liverpool-based Glaswegian songwriter Iona Summer has released a new single ‘Mirror Image’, a highly intimate and powerful Indie-Rock track that marks her second release. This emotionally charged track is the first track she has released of an EP to come in May of this year that explores specific moments of Iona’s life as a working-class musician.
In this first release of the EP to come, ‘Mirror Image’ captures a compelling balance between raw emotion and an infectious, Indie-Rock energy. It contrasts soft, flowing verses with a more intense, rock-driven chorus created with the help of lead guitarist George Howarth. This dynamic listening experience reflects exactly what Iona seeks to portray which is that of a mirror image- just as a mirror reveals both light and shadow, the song captures both vulnerability and strength. It is a strikingly honest portal of Iona’s personal experiences with family struggles and her resilience to it. Despite the heavy themes Iona explores, she has created a track so irresistibly catchy, with her Glaswegian cadence, beautiful harmonies and a chorus that lingers in the mind.
Words by Beatrice Wright
Pyncher
Manchester-based Alternative Rock Outfit Pyncher have released a new enthralling single titled ‘Get Along’. The young quartet’s latest single is crammed with layers providing a multifaceted listen, one full of depth, moodiness and just the right amount of playfulness.
It has a big energy to it provided by Britt Dewhurst’s skill on the bass, Harvey O’Toole’s fiery dexterity on guitar, Jack Rainbow’s zealous drumming and Sam Blakely’s electrifying and gritty vocals. Right from the start we see the playful side of Pyncher through the opening vocals which chant and echo eventually fading into Harvey's strumming. There’s a shift in energy about two minutes in, breaking with earlier repetitions.
This section provides a bluesy feel as you hear the soulful sound of a brass instrument in the background. While ‘Get Along’ provokes a primarily upbeat, headbanging sound, it has a prominent eerie and melancholic undertone that is maintained throughout, even during the bluesy shift.
Words by Beatrice Wright
Chloe Slater
Few artists capture the tension of modern disillusionment quite like Manchester's Chloe Slater. On her second EP, ‘Love Me Please’, she combines explosive riffs with biting commentary, establishing herself as one of the most compelling voices of her generation. This isn’t just another Indie-Pop record; it’s a bold declaration, a raw reflection of a generation that is both disillusioned and defiant.
The EP features snarling guitars, tight percussion, and lyrics dripping with frustration and strikes the perfect balance between assertion and quiet vulnerability, making it a raw, urgent, and instantly addictive collection. Flirting with Indie Sleaze and Rock bravado, tracks like ‘We’re Not the Same’ wrap searing class commentary in irresistibly bright hooks. Yet, ‘Fig Tree’ is the EP’s emotional core. Slow-burning and deeply vulnerable, its blend of vulnerability and conviction makes it an instant standout, evoking shades of Blur or Smashing Pumpkins.
With her second EP, Slater refines her sound and sharpens her voice, proving she’s more than ready to stand among the genre’s most astute social commentators. ‘Love Me Please’ is confident, intelligent, and deeply felt—a bold step forward for the rising star.
Words by Donovan Livesey
Parlours
'Paradox' by Parlours is a powerful rock anthem that bears weight from the first note. The opening instrumentals are loud and slicing, teasing hooks that emerge later in the track. As the song builds, heavy breakdowns accompany atmospheric vocals and instrumentation to create an elevating, cathartic release. The track is full of absorbing themes, in particular, the striking line “Come as you are” which serves as a reminder of acceptance amidst burden.
Experiential lines like “Father Time is calling, he said I’ve wasted it on you” evoke the frustration and regret of lost time, while “Finally found my purpose, it ain’t chasing after you” demonstrates a sense of self-realisation and independence. The imagery of clouds rolling over ties into the theme of time passing, adding a sense of inevitability which is reflected in the ever-imminent heavy instrumental segments. 'Paradox' leaves listeners with a feeling of raw emotion and empowerment, making it a powerful statement by Parlours.
Words by Cormac O'Carroll
Oh Dear
Providing a well-needed escape from the reality of British winter, Dream Pop duo Oh Dear take a shift in sound in their latest single ‘Backseat’, slowing down the tempo to take a moment to reflect. Perfectly encapsulating the feeling of driving aimlessly through the streets in the early hours of the morning, ‘Backseat’ has become our new favourite track to reconnect with life.
Katie’s soft vocals combined with layers of jangly, reverberating guitar, echo the need to take a step back and appreciate life. These layers blend together with roomy drum beats and twinkling synths to create a texture that makes you feel like you are dancing in the rain. Then halfway through the track we are able to pause and reflect along with the band as the beat slows, leading us into an intermission where the jangly guitar and glittering synths take a break before transporting us back into dreamland again.
Words by Annalyse Slater-Jones
Pet Snake
Under the shiny new alias of Pet Snake, singer-songwriter Evelyn Halls is carving her own path into the Indie Folk mountain with her latest EP ‘Hard (Easy Versions)’. It is a sentimentally uncouth exposè of beautiful sadness that takes the bones of her 2024 EP 'Hard' and informs it with fragile, stripped-back instrumentals and stellar vocal work.
Evelyn Hall’s nuanced lyrical sentiments offer a sense of literary vulnerability alongside tear-provoking acoustics almost akin to the likes of Boygenius and Clairo. Inspirations stemming from the Indie Folk scene are dynamically layered to produce a rich warmth in each track.
Her vocals shimmer delectably, creating a well-rounded run of whispering stories. Evelyn Halls is clearly taking her new path in her stride, opening up her heart as she goes along to truly examine the brief nature of human existence and the emotions existing alongside life. (Read the full EP review here).
Words by Michaela Roper
Permanent (Joy)
Permanent (Joy)’s first offering of the new year boasts an exploration into distorted guitar riffs and gloomy vocal work backed by high-power drum beats.
Their new single ‘I Wanna Go Home’ turns the page of a new chapter for the band as they re-emerge onto the Indie Rock scene. The Merseyside rockers have conducted a clean sonic break from their former journey under the alias of Blondes, leaning into their heavier musical inspirations to produce a track infused with darker, postmodern elements.
Holding a likeness to some of Fontaines D.C’s latest work, the song is bold in nature but infused with the pre-loved dinginess associated with Indie Rock. It’s heavy, energetic, and manifests a landmark turn towards the band’s domination of the local music cycle.
Permanent (Joy) are certainly one to keep your eye on as they come off the back of stellar performances supporting Inhaler and The Guestlist.
Words by Michaela Roper
catbandcat
If you can think back to the last time you chased a slightly tipsy spirit through a densely packed forest, you can imagine catbandcat’s new EP, ‘I Don’t Know Much About Rocks’. The EP begins with a cacophony of wobbly sound effects creating a bed on which a beautiful, piercing voice lays. Hauntingly melancholy atmospheres blend with classical strings and a voice that tiptoes around a wonky synth.
They have a healthy degree of experimentation mid way through, as is seen in ‘Giv£ M£ Mon£y’ where the eccentricity of Cosmo Sheldrake meets the electronic beats of SOPHIE, a combination that may sound strange if it wasn’t found in this EP, where it sits quite perfectly. We can only think that by the end of the EP, the spirit must be laying, like a child does after a party, in blissful wonder, having been launched from the static glow of space to the murky depths of the sea, tired by their evening yet yearning for more. catbandcat will give you this experience, just let them lead you.
Words by Esme Morgan-Jones
Funeralcare
Funeralcare, an Electro-Indie group with a fresh energetic sound, have delivered an engaging debut EP in 'Marathon' that blends athletic themes with reflective lyrics. With its mix of upbeat tempos and introspective semantics, the EP showcases their potential to carve out a unique space in the Indie scene.
The group’s sound is anchored in the blurring of lines, blending melodic guitar with danceable rhythms. Their tracks are laced with layers of electronic textures that create a dreamy yet grounded vibe. Lyrically, the EP’s themes revolve around the struggles of unrequited love and the uncertainty of romance, often comparing these emotions to the experience of running. Tracks like 'Semi-skimmed' echo this metaphor, with lines like “I can’t ask you what you came to the track for” and “can’t keep up like I did before” illustrating the exhaustion and disconnection felt in a one-sided or miscommunicated relationship. With their unique fusion of electronic and Indie elements, coupled with evocative lyrics, they’ve set a solid foundation for future releases.
Words by Cormac O'Carroll
better joy
better joy is the ultimate cool girl, perfect for fans of Rachel Chinouriri and Baby Queen. Her newest single ‘Waiting on Time’ strikes a perfect balance with a toe-tapping rhythm and an upbeat chorus, combined with beautiful storytelling that perfectly captures a sense of yearning and longing.
With lyrics like "I see a ladder to a midnight star" and "I see a forest / I see the roots on fire", this song is pure poetry. More poppy than some of her previous singles, the pre-chorus in particular is a masterpiece and the highlight of the song, doing a brilliant job of building tension ahead of the earworming chorus
‘Waiting on Time’ is the latest in a series of singles, each as impeccably well-written and polished as the last, and we can’t wait to hear what she comes out with next. Catch her on tour this Spring, which includes Night & Day Cafe in Manchester.
Words by Beth Turner
Odelia
Although originally from the other side of the pond in Baltimore, Odelia is currently based in Liverpool and is leaving her mark on the Northern music scene. With the release of her most recent single ‘Run’, it's clear that she has perfected the art of blending hauntingly emotional lyrics and distinct guitar instrumentals to create a strikingly experimental and complex song.
Accompanied by a visually beautiful music video, Odelia manages to exhibit her artistic talents and potential for future projects. Through her assertive lyric “I was not prepared to run” that creeps up throughout the song, Odelia makes it clear she’s confident in crafting a motif that resonates with listeners. As the story unfolds we are reminded that she is escaping something and, although it is a personal story she tells, it resonates with all of us struggling with finding an escape.
Odelia has crafted a single which is not only beautiful to listen to, but gets us excited to see what she's releasing in the future.
Words by Matilda Jane Sangster
Leeroy Salmon
Leeroy Salmon, a Manchester-based Jazz Punk band, released their first debut single ‘Kim Chi’ it does not disappoint.
‘Kim Chi’ offers a concoction of genres with its juxtaposing verses of loud Punk Rock shouting and quieter harmonious lyricism, that embody the elements of Jazz. The intro blends together the sounds of beautiful Punk drums and catchy electric guitar riffs, so that it is impossible not to instantly love this song.
Despite being a small fish in the big music production pond, Leeroy Salmon have already made a splash in the industry, performing some high intensity, high energy gigs last year. In light of their new release plan on doing many more. The band writes that “this has been in the pipeline for a long time and we are super hyped to be kicking off the new year in style”.
With loads more on the horizon this year this band is definitely one to add to this year's playlist.
Words by Megan Howard
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