Sleaford Mods, Charli XCX and watch out for bright new things Westside Cowboy.
Single of the Week: Sleaford Mods featuring Aldous Harding – Elitest G.O.A.T.
One of the two stand out tracks on the new Mods’ album, The Demise of Planet X. Somewhere in between what they did for ‘So Trendy’ and a full on LCD Sound System indie-disco stomp. Jason Williamson is on fine form and the chorus from Aldous Harding is just fantastic.
Arlo Parks – 2SIDED
Arlo Parks is a stellar talent and this first new material since 2023 is a very solid return. A sophisticated blend of pop, R and B and alternative-indie.
Charlie XCX – Wall Of Sound
Not content with absolutely owning 2024 with BRAT, Charli is now showing a hugely impressive and different string to her songwriting bow by creating the soundtrack for a new film adaptation of Wuthering Heights. The three singles so far have been mightily impressive and a massive change of direction.
Mitski – Where’s My Phone?
The brilliant Mitski returns with a playful new single leading into the announcement of her eighth album. Bound to be a constant refrain in your life every time you misplace that small little electrical device that contains your entire life within it.
Gorillaz – Orange County (featuring Bizarrap, Kara Jackson and Anoushka Shankar)
Oh Damon Albarn, this brilliantly understated single has a whistling refrain that instantly lodges into your subconscious. You will be performing it at random points of the day without even being aware of it.
Master Peace – F**K It UP (feat. Declan Mckenna)
An unexpected, but brilliant, collaboration between two quality guitar artists. We regret missing Master Peace at last year’s Are You Listening? Festival more with every new release!
Ghost – It’s a Sin
This track is actually about ten years old, but has never had a digital release before. The Pet Shop Boys are a full on Reading Indie Life guilty pleasure. This wonderful cover version is played surprisingly straight by the theatrical Swedish rockers, but replacing the synths with guitars gives it an absolutely epic rock feel.
Daughter – Not Enough
Daughter are an absolutely phenomenal band. Another act who have been quiet since 2023. Check out their earlier albums if you are not familiar with them. They blend folk with an almost The XX type sound that is very powerful.
Westside Cowboy – The Wahs
All aboard the hype train with one of the big indie-picks for 2026. This is the highlight of their new EP that we intended to review, we might still get round to it the wrong side of late.
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