[album] Dancer – 10 Songs I Hate About You

Seamlessly weaving together the raw energy of post-punk, shimmering melodies of jangle pop, and the introspective lyricism of indie rock, 10 Songs I Hate About You by Dancer stands as one of the best debuts we heard recently.

Formed just at the end of 2022 and with two great EPs under their belt already, this Glasgow quartet quickly became a cult underground outfit with a distinctive style and charming personality. And on the LP they double down on everything that makes them great and manage to create their best release so far.

All songs here are great, be that an ultra-catchy and sweet “Change”, surreal “When I Was A Teenage Horse”, playful ripper “Make a Decision”, or the meditative “Passionate Sunday”. Jangly guitar riffs intertwine with pulsating rhythms, creating a sonic tapestry that feels just right.

Stream below and purchase the record here.

[video] test plan – Walking in a Vacuum

Photo by Rory Dickinson

Half a year following the launch of their first single, London’s test plan revealed their new song/music video “Walking in a Vacuum”. Self-released by the band, it’s an energetic and punchy roar of independent music.

Blending intense guitar-driven chaos and rhythmic power, the single explores the themes of repression and evasion amidst life’s challenges. It is a relentless and dissonant sonic journey that demonstrates the trio’s knack for pushing boundaries in the noise rock and dance punk genres.

Watch below.

[video] Maxïmo Park – Favourite Songs

Photo by Kuba Ryniewicz

Maxïmo Park are releasing their latest single/video “Favourite Songs” today, along with announcing upcoming tour dates across the UK and EU in the Autumn.

Being the band’s first release in over 18 months, this song marks a return to celebratory vibes, embracing the profound ability of music to forge powerful connections and convey impactful messages. It is a dynamic and layered track, with driving rhythms and intricate guitar work that builds momentum throughout the length of it.

Watch below and find all the upcoming tour information here.

[song] Nisa – Breach

Photo by Rhianna Hajduch

In a month from now, we will get Shapeshifting, a new album by Nisa, set for release on Tender Loving Empire Records.

We have heard some brilliant songs out of it already and now she continues the hot streak of singles with the new one — the rhythm-infused atmospheric track “Breach”. Nisa shares: “Breach is a rehearsal of a break-up with an inconstant version of myself”.

Listen below and pre-order the record here.

[song] Tony Njoku – Looking For Light

Photo by Jordan Woods

On May 3, Tony Njoku will release Last Bloom, his highly-anticipated new EP for PRAH Recordings. We have heard “La Ruée” out of it already and now are getting a second offering — “Looking for Light”.

The song stands out as the most vocal-heavy track from the release, amidst a predominantly instrumental landscape of experimental-classical compositions. It is a gentle and beautiful number which builds at a steady pace to a cathartic, surging avant-pop crescendo.

Check it out below.