Soft Launch – Piano Hands
Following their fun and eccentric debut single “Cartwheels,” Irish five-piece band Soft Launch's latest release, “Piano Hands,” is an eclectic blend of genre influences, with a carefully crafted indie rock sound and hints of modern psychedelia reminiscent of Tame Impala. Recorded in 2022, the track shows similarities to the group's debut in terms of collaboration, with Beach Boys-esque lead vocals, tight rhythms, and fuzzy melodies that pass naturally between the five members. Thematically, “Piano Hands” paints a vivid picture of everyday life, feeling inherently playful with bouncy melodies and quick movements of tempo and groove. Overall, the track shows that Soft Launch has a diverse catalog of increasingly exciting and interesting musical material, preparing them for summer festival appearances and their upcoming debut headline show in London. (Kyle Roczniak)
Yuneki – Like honey
Yuneki's debut single introduced her to the world and blends multiple styles into one. Backed by a strong drum beat, it incorporates elements of poetry and neo-soul, and as the chorus kicks in, it becomes clear that her voice is unique. While not necessarily groundbreaking, “Like Honey” has a refreshing earnestness reminiscent of Olivia Dean or Raye. While she may still be at the start of her career, Yuneki has plenty of potential to grow into a promising talent. (Christopher Connor)
She Likes to Party – Puppet Show
Despite its unconcealed nightmarish atmosphere, or maybe because of it, She's In Parties' latest album, Puppet Show, is a lot of fun to listen to. Maybe it's the pulsating 80s synthesizers that later drop into a rippling swirl overlaid with crisp drums. Maybe it's Katy Dillon's sometimes sensual and often uplifting vocals. Or maybe it's the hazy answering machine sample recounting a tooth-losing nightmare. All of this combines to provide an honest, kitschy insight into the anxieties of being a performer in the limelight, and ironically, we enjoy it a lot. (Phil Taylor)
Olegro (feat. Belle Cobain) – Comet
A sweet, refreshing song that sounds like a cosmic mix of the scents of two lovers, London four-piece Olegro's “comet” is a seductive adventure into reggae intertwined with gorgeous, sensual neo-soul. With the final single from their highly anticipated debut EP “not real people,” the newly signed artist from Brownswood Recordings unleashes new dimensions to a primarily instrumental sound that has previously fused a variety of influences from jazz to drill. In collaboration with singer-songwriter Bel Cobain, “comet” takes us even deeper into the sweet embrace of a clear, late-night heat, with Cobain's timeless lovesick purr over loose drums and deep horns. (Hazel Bracher)
Victory Lap – Sincerely yours
Victory Lap burst onto the scene a few months ago with their debut single “Jealousy” and now they're back with their latest offering “Sincerely, Yours”, also announcing an upcoming EP and a headline tour of the UK. Fusing a timeless golden age sound with a charming 21st century twist, this up-and-coming Nottingham band is going from strength to strength, with their noir pop sound now effortlessly expressed in the studio after a string of recent live appearances in their hometown and beyond. (Gemma Cockrell)
Fake Wife – Going Round and Round
Not to be confused with alternative rock pioneers Dream Wife, Manchester duo Fake Wife have recently emerged. Made up of frontman Louis James and bassist Oli Boyden, the band have only been around for a year, but they've now released their third single, “Round and Round.” Driven by shimmering synths and a driving disco beat, the track continues to establish their brand of '80s-inspired pop. Taken from the up-and-coming northern band's debut EP, “Showbiz,” due out October 2nd, it's another exciting track that's building buzz ahead of an upcoming project. (Emily Savage)
BIG LOVE – Is it over already?
Irish band BIG LOVE have been steadily gaining a fanbase, and by teaming up with producer Matt Glasbey (Alt-J, Sorry, Bloc Party), they've proven they have something standout here. Latest single “Is It Over Yet” features a hypnotic opening that recalls the bassline of Arctic Monkeys' “Why'd You Only Call Me When You're High?” before gradually evolving into something entirely different, adding lavish layered harmonies to the mix. There's a vague sense of free-spirited chaos in the air, but the sextet manages to keep it in check and stand out as a band brimming with inspiring ideas. (Christopher Connor)