Author Archives: Zara Hoffman

English indie-pop band Fickle Friends have been around for over a decade now, and they are going from strength to strength. Their latest single, “Swoon,” is no exception as it oozes with fun and is the perfect anthem for the “hopefully” sunny months to come

Talking about the single, front person Natassja Shiner says, “This song was born in our little studio in Brighton…it was the end of the day and we just decided to go a bit old school and plug in some instruments and have a good old fashioned ‘jam.'”

“Lyrically, this song captures the moment I stopped seeing being single and dating as tragic and started embracing it as iconic—pure brat, hot girl summer energy with everything in between. Snogging? Timeless. Those awkward first encounters? Magic. Shifting my mindset from anxiety to excitement didn’t just change how I approached dating—it changed my life.”

Formed in 2013, Fickle Friends is made up of Natassja (vocals, keyboards), Harry Herrington (bass, backing vocals), Sam Morris (drums), and Jack Wilson (keyboards). Natassja met Sam at Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts and met Chris, Harry and Jack the following year in BIMM Brighton. Since then, they have continued to thrive and are due to release their third studio album in the near future.

“Swoon” is in stores now.

Irish singer-songwriter Niamh Bury goes back to her traditional roots with her latest single “Geordie,” out now.

A wonderful, whimsical trad-folk delight, “Geordie” allows Niamh’s natural Irish charm and poignancy to shine. Talking about the single, Niamh says, “This is a traditional song from the 1600s that I first heard sung by the great Martin Carthy. It’s very dear to me and probably the song in my set that people have asked most about down the years. To me it’s about courage, resilience, survival and the lengths we will go to for our loved ones.”

Niamh Bury is one of the most captivating new voices on the Irish folk scene. Her debut album, Yellow Roses—released in March 2024—quickly stirred hearts and earned her a spot of Mojo’s Best Folk Albums of 2024 list. Niamh’s richly-textured folk sound and singular vocals have lead her to share the stage with acts like Ye Vagabonds, Flyte, Maddison Cunningham, Dermot Kennedy, and Martin Hayes.

“Geordie” is in stores now.

Gear up for Spring with the wonderfully warm new single “Ten Years From Now” by Australian newcomer Ruby Jackson.

Ruby’s sound is fueled by 2000s R&B nostalgia, but consistently in her own way. Her latest release is no exception as it combines soul-pop and jazz-infused sensibilities creating something poignant and powerful. Fans of Olivia Dean and Pip Millett will feel at home here.

Ruby’s unique approach to storytelling and her signature authentic vocal sets her apart as one of the most original sounds in Australian R&B. We’re excited to see what 2025 brings for Ruby and dare we say, manifest a UK tour? Watch this space.

“Ten Years From Now” is in stores now.

Ahead of the release of their debut album, Nottingham-based quartet Divorce share their jangly new single “Hangman,” out now.

Talking about the single, co-vocalist and guitarist Felix Mackenzie-Barrow says, “I wrote ‘Hangman’ late one night, freezing in my moldy bedroom after a long shift as a support worker; the job I was doing at the time. The lyrics and chords and structure came out complete in about twenty minutes, I had stolen Tiger’s Ominchord for it, which is not an instrument I would usually use for writing. The job I was doing necessitated a high level of emotional control, which was not something I had experienced before and so writing about the work and allowing my subconscious to flow freely helped me to gain some perspective.

I listened to it on the way back to work the following morning over and over and I felt like I’d done a good one. I only worked in that job for about six months, but it was simultaneously the hardest and most rewarding work I’ve ever done. The admiration I have for the people I worked with, and the people who choose that career, is immense. The world of social care is hidden in a society that likes to pretend it doesn’t exist, but it is vital and deserves much more focus and investment than it currently receives.”

Last year, Divorce signed to Universal Records’ Gravity Records, before filling 2024 with a raft of international festivals and tours with Bombay Bicycle Club, The Vaccines, and Everything Everything. As anticipation continues to grow for Divorce’s debut album, Drive to Goldenhammer out 7th March, the band are also looking forward to a run of UK in-store performances, followed by a full UK/EU headline tour later this year. Watch this space.

Pre-order the album here.

If you’re a fan of neo-soul infused R&B then look no further. Lucy Park recently dropped her celestial new single “Only Ever” and it’s undeniably impressive.

Starting her singer-songwriter journey in 2018, the London and LA-based Lucy Park has evolved from covering songs on guitar in her college dorm to unleashing timeless records from the studio to the world. Channeling the likes of Olivia Dean, “Only Ever” is further proof that this young artist is most certainly on the rise, and we are extremely excited to see what Lucy gets up to next.

Talking about the single, Lucy says, “I wrote this song the week I moved to London from LA as a little farewell to my life there. It’s a reminder to myself to embrace new chapters and whatnot!”

Welcome to the UK, Lucy! We’re very happy to have you.

“Only Ever” is in stores now.

Sri Lankan Aussie Kiki Wera continues to make waves and from across the pond with new single “Lazy,” out now.

Channeling the likes of Hope Tala, Remi Wolf, and Dominic Fike, Kiki creates warm, fuzzy bedroom pop that is the perfect distraction for the winter blues. “Lazy” is utterly charming from the offset and certainly puts Kiki solidly on the map of ones to watch for 2025.

Kiki sings, produces, and writes all of her own music. She loves making music with good vibes—an escape with unique, quirky production and whimsical, honest lyrics. The pop artist grew up in Melbourne, but more recently studied contemporary music and songwriting at Berklee College of Music in Boston. Kiki Wera’s music is being discovered on Spotify New Music Friday AU and NZ, along with Fresh Finds AU and NZ.

“Lazy” is in stores now.

Ease into the working week with singer-songwriter Emma Harner who recently released her stunning new single “Do It,” out now. Known for her combination of folk and math rock infused soundscapes, “Do It” is no exception. Of course, it’s not every day you see these two genres entwined, but somehow it really works.

Talking about the single, Emma says, “It’s a song about giving your all to something that demands everything from you and getting nothing in return. Fitting, I think, that I’m releasing this song independently. So, help me out! Tell your friends about it! Add it to your playlists! I am so grateful to have an audience who believes in the power of math folk (or whatever you’d call this).”

Emma Harner is an accomplished guitarist, songwriter, singer, recording/ touring artist, and multi-instrumentalist known for her eclectic blend of classical guitar technique, folk music, and math rock/ midwest emo riffs.

Inspired by artists like Radiohead, Adrienne Lenker, and Paul Simon, her intricate guitar work and heartfelt songwriting have captivated a growing fanbase. Last year, Emma toured as direct support on several tours including Orla Gartland, Mxmtoon, and The Bygones. Emma is launching headfirst into 2025 with her highly anticipated debut EP.

Canadian newcomer Laura Roy returns with the release of her beautifully introspective single “BONE TO PICK,” out now. Currently based in London, 2025 is already shaping up to be a pretty exciting year for this emerging artist.

Known for her signature fusion of folk-soul and alternative R&B, Roy’s latest single reaffirms her knack for combining poignant storytelling with rich, genre-defying soundscapes. Talking about the single, Roy explains, “It’s a song about finding clarity in chaos, a reminder that personal growth often springs from moments of uncertainty.”

2024 saw Roy sing backing vocals for Sabrina Carpenter at her Wembley Arena show and Dua Lipa’s BBC Live Lounge. She also performed with Lianne La Havas and toured the world with JP Cooper’s band.

“BONE TO PICK” is another taste of what’s to come from the rising star as she records her debut album. Watch this space.

Scottish twin-sibling duo Cloth recently shared their new single “Polaroid,” and it’s a dreamy delight from the offset.

Channelling the likes of Wet Leg, Cloth combine classic indie-rock soundscapes with shoegaze and dream-pop infused sensibilities creating something truly magical. Lyrically, “Polaroid” carries a quietly devastating impact and discussion of the loss of a friendship. Vocalist Rachael Swinton elaborates, “We knew that we wanted to push ourselves outside our comfort zone and write a really upbeat, fast track which would feel great to play live. ‘Polaroid’ has such a strong, driving beat and a soaring string arrangement from Owen Pallett. We’ve never had strings on our music before so this was a real first for us.”

“I was a little nervous about the idea because I think adding strings can sometimes go one of two ways—they can sound great or they can overpower the nuance of everything going on underneath. I can still remember hearing Owen’s arrangement for the first time and just turning to Paul with the biggest smile on my face—they absolutely nailed it. ‘Polaroid’ is quite different to anything we’ve done before, but I think it’s one of the most exciting songs we’ve made.” “Polaroid” was produced by Ali Chant (Perfume Genius, PJ Harvey, Yard Act).

“Polaroid” is in stores now via Rock Action. It’s the band’s first release since their 2023 album Secret Measure.

Singer-songwriter Lily Lyons pens powerfully poignant songs that are soft, sweet, and celestial. Her latest single “No One Leaves” is no exception and certainly puts her on the map as one to watch for 2025.

Talking about the single, Lily says, “This song was so fun to stitch together. Chris Vatalaro came in for day one and I remember Leo Abrahams and I totally changing the direction of the song because of what he brought to the table. The first time we played it through I hear him in the background of a video saying “or something” at the end. Completely unaware he was blowing my socks off. Having Tara Cunningham and Angus Bayley in as well, building this new sound world… it was such a different, collaborative, and beautiful experience! Hope this translates in the music.”

Lily Lyons searches for truth in her music, exploring simple things that are easily forgotten—not revolutionary, but the everyday beauty and tragedy of relationships. Each track that Lily writes is a beautiful vignette capturing her experiences so far, with perceptive lyrics delivered in an elegant voice that could easily sit among the greats.

“No One Leaves” is in stores now.

The festive season is well and truly upon us. and to celebrate we’ve got a Christmas cracker of a song for you. Australian singer-songwriter Carla Wehbe has been making waves for a while now, and she recently dropped her latest single, “christmas doesn’t feel the same without you.”

You’ve never met an artist quite as exhilaratingly odd as Carla Wehbe. An elusive trait often misunderstood but highly prized in the music world, Wehbe’s unconventional uniqueness of vision has become the hallmark of the likes of Bowie and Mercury. Charming, celestial, and utterly infectious, this latest cut is the perfect addition to your Christmas-themed playlists. Carla’s soft, sultry vocals soar over the vibrant musicality, sounding akin to the likes of Sabrina Carpenter or Gracie Abrams.

From her independent beginnings with the 2020 single “Don’t Tell Me” through to her critically acclaimed 2023 EP “Jupiter and Mars” and supporting international superstars on their Australian tours, including The Chicks, Alec Benjamin, Benson Boone, and Teddy Swims. She has recently wrapped up touring with Peach PRC on her Australian tour.

“christmas doesn’t feel the same without you” is in stores now.

Singer-songwriter Eva Penney soothes us into the week with the release of her captivating new single “you sound like the dolphins!,” out now.

Born from a demo made in a single afternoon, this song is a true capsule of time, made even more final in the production process by being recorded onto reel-to-reel cassette tape. This track is one of Penney’s more understated projects, however it feels no less anthemic as Eva’s rich, warm vocal soars effortlessly over the beautifully delicate musicality. It features mechanical clicks and sweeps of the analogue cassette recorder and gentle synth hums and squeaks, often mistaken by listeners for dolphin sounds.

Eva Penney has always been honest in her music, constantly treading an uneasy line between metaphor and truth. With a sound inspired by alternative and acoustic folk, the electronic and DIY elements weaved into her recordings and performances create a unique and warming listening experience.

“you sound like the dolphins!” is in stores now.

Watch out! There’s a new hyper-pop girlie on the scene and she means business. Saila’s debut single “So Far” is out now via So, Let’s Talk.

Based in the UK, rising star Saila has already had her music featured in Marvel blockbuster Eternals, as well as having a publishing deal with Fat Pigeon Publishing / Kobalt Music Group. She has just dropped her infectious debut single “So Far” and it’s oozing with sparkle and celestial soundscapes. Fans of the likes of PinkPantheress and NewJeans will feel very much at home here.

Talking about the single, Saila says, “’So Far’ was me having a conversation with myself earlier this year when I was really lost and unsure. I needed a reminder to be kind to myself, to recognise how far I’ve come, to be brave and keep going. I didn’t write ‘So Far’ thinking it would be my first single, but the year went on and I found myself going back to that song for support again and again. I think a lot of people feel the way I felt, and maybe they need to hear the same words I did, so here we are!”

“So Far” is in stores now via So, Let’s Talk.

Eclectic indie electro artist Marek Kubala has made a mark on the UK music scene in recent years. His expansive use of electronic soundscapes mixed with soaring guitar has garnered support from BBC 6 Music as well as a plethora of influential Spotify playlists. Now, he returns with the release of his latest cut, “Peeping Tom.”

The track is taken from Marek’s latest EP, also titled “Peeping Tom,” and is an example of his ability to combine retro sonics with contemporary production. “Peeping Tom” is a polished electro tune that conjures comparisons with bands such as Depeche Mode. Shimmering vocals are spliced with menacing synths, as the track builds ominously throughout, to create a mature piece of alternative pop music.

Marek describes the EP as a record that combines the futuristic soundscapes of NZCA Lines with the ambitious new wave influences of Talk Talk. With production coming from longtime Brian Eno and Jon Hopkins collaborator Leo Abrahams, “Peeping Tom” encapsulates Marek Kubala’s distinctive take on modern electronic music.

“Peeping Tom” is in stores now via Shore Dive Records.

Dolores Forever are a transcendent duo who have recently released their stunning debut album It’s Nothing, out now via Sweat Entertainment.

Influenced by the likes of Haim, Mitski, and Sharon Van Eaten, Dolores Forever’s debut is an oozing tapestry of rich sounds and sentiment throughout. Talking about the album, the band says, “It’s taken from a line in [album track] ‘Go Fast Go Slow’: ‘I lie in bed at night and I pretend it’s nothing,” Hannah explains.

“Usually, when somebody says ‘oh, it’s nothing’, it actually means it’s really something. That’s sort of a theme across this record, really. It’s about us reconciling with our position in the wider world; we’re too loud, too big, too opinionated for certain sections of society, so it’s easier to just say ‘it’s nothing’ than get into it. On the other hand, it’s also mildly a joke between us because it’s our debut, so it means everything to us. To call it It’s Nothing just made us laugh!”

Julia, from Copenhagen, and Hannah, from Yorkshire, were introduced to each other by a mutual friend at a party who thought they’d get on well. Both have a background in music and songwriting, and shortly after, Dolores Forever was born. This friendship has underpinned the band’s whirlwind rise since releasing their first single, “Kilimanjaro” in 2021.

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