Pop

The Assist Release New Single ‘The Luckiest Man’

Apr 23, 2025 — Leave a comment

Birmingham band The Assist are back with an intense depiction of modern day life with their new single ‘The Luckiest Man’. The Council-Pop outfit are one of the UK’s most established underground groups and have redefined the boundaries of independent music with their acclaimed inspiriting style, fresh impetus, hope and melody.

Their latest single ‘The Luckiest Man’ is the second offering from the band’s highly anticipated second studio album ‘Disconnections’. The track details the internal conflict that we so often experience when trying to weigh up chasing success and acknowledging what we already have. Lead singer Mikey provides a ruthless analysis of our personal value systems with a matter-of-fact observation on life today. Touching on what inspired the track, Mikey said “I feel that having a creative personality is often paired with an overwhelming fear of becoming stagnant or potentially even a failure. Consumed by a desire to always progress in all aspects of life I found that I would often disregard all that I already had right in front of me.
It was important for me to detail that in my music. It is now out in the open as a constant reminder for me and anyone else that needs reminding that we have a lot to be thankful for.”

Mikey’s calculated verse depicting a mid-twenties angst sits above guitarist’s Ryan Stanton’s infectious chords, helping the track to glide forward with an ambient lure. Assisted by Jorge Poole’s prolific and ever-present rhythmic drive, the gentle production adds a frightening depth. A kaleidoscopic realm of sounds was created by producer Ryan Malcs (Wolf Alice/Superfood). A production debut that has proven to be the catalyst for the band’s evolution. Mikey delivers a calming vocal with some clear emotion that entices listeners to the message within. Speaking of the song, Mikey said, “The Luckiest Man was my chance to
express my gratitude for all that I have in life. In moments of reflection I felt that by acknowledging what I was truly grateful for I become to no longer desire anything other than friends, family and health. I hope that my music inspires people to think in similar ways but if not I’m grateful that it inspires me.”

Ever since forming in 2014, The Assist have had their finger on the pulse of how the modern generation consume music. Soaking their soaring indie anthems with hip-hop-inflected beats, dance-tinged rhythms and emotive breakdowns. It’s this eclectic adventurism that has seen The Assist sell out venues across the UK as well as share the stage with Blossoms, The Twang and Dylan John Thomas. ‘The Luckiest Man’ is another entry to the band’s commendable canon, who are most certainly in the Jack Grealish category of assists. Speaking of football, the band previously enjoyed a starring slot on the landmark television show Soccer AM. Whilst away from the pitch they’ve graced big stages at festivals such as Reading & Leeds, TRANSMT, Y-NOT and Isle of Wight. Their 2021 debut album, ‘Council-Pop’, entered the UK charts at number 21 and led to a top 10 independent album. You may have previously heard The Assist on BBC Radio 6 and Radio X where they have been praised by the likes of Tom Robinson, Steve Lamacq and John Kennedy.

As much as The Assist’s more reflective notions have shone through in their most recent releases, this track is an embodiment of who the band are as people. With 2024 came a new-found pride in their art, their biggest ever gigs, and now, an extended catalogue of youthful indie-anthems tucked into their back pocket.

Their upcoming album ‘Disconnections’ is out on the 2nd of May.

Upcoming Tour Dates

16th May – Sidney & Matilda – Sheffield
23rd May – The Old England – Bristol
30th May – The Deaf Institute – Manchester
6th June – Camden Assembly – London
7th June – O2 institute 2 – Birmingham

Emily Marsden – Editor
#IndieRevolution
@Indierevuk
Indierevuk@gmail.com

Esme Bridie Releases New Single ‘Propranolol’

Oct 21, 2024 — Leave a comment

Experience Esme Bridie’s journey through anxiety transformed into a relatable, infectious pop anthem that resonates with anyone who’s faced similar struggles… PROPRANOLOL

Esme is a singer, songwriter and multi instrumentalist from Liverpool. On the outside she may look like your average sweet girl, but Esme is a self-professed angry girl and this comes through in her newest songs. Esme creates raw and honest songs with intricate guitar lines and emotive vocals. In her live shows she draws audiences in with her touchingly personal style and entrances them with driving band arrangements.

Emerging indie-pop artist Esme Bridie has just released her latest single, “Propranolol”, a refreshingly honest and upbeat track that tackles an unexpected yet deeply relatable theme—anxiety relief. Far from your average love song, “Propranolol” is a heartfelt ode to the medication that helps many navigate the turbulent emotions of anxiety.

At its core, the song captures the intense highs and lows anxiety can bring, before delivering the sweet sense of relief that comes from finding something—or in this case, Propranolol—that provides calm amid the storm. With intricate guitar lines, a driving rhythm section, and Esme’s signature warm, earworm vocals, this track leaves a lasting impression on listeners, long after the final note fades.

Esme Bridie, known for her soulful songwriting and compelling lyricism, continues to break the mold with this new single. Her unique ability to blend introspective themes with an infectious, feel-good sound sets her apart, and “Propranolol” is no exception.

Esme released her debut EP ‘Something In Your Teeth’ in 2023. Which has gained support from New Music Friday UK, BBC 6 Music and BBC Introducing. Esme was also named one of the Unsigned Guides’ spotlight artists. Esme has gone on to play BBC Introducing’s showcase at the Cavern Club and Liverpool Celebrates in support of the Jacksons.

Previous releases from Esme Bridie have received plays from BBC 6 music with Tom Robinson and BBC Introducing, alongside plays and mentions on; Amazing Radio, Jazz FM, Bido Lito, Liverpool Noise, Get Into This and RGM.

Emily Marsden – Editor
#IndieRevolution
@Indierevuk
Indierevuk@gmail.com

Macy Releases New Single ‘Third Person’

Nov 26, 2023 — Leave a comment

MACY is the incredible young Welsh songstress who has been releasing music since 2020 and who has amassed incredible ratings on streaming platforms in such a relatively short space of time, in excess of 1 million streams worldwide, as well as being played on and receiving praise from the likes of BBC introducing, BBC Radio Wales (where she was added to the A- List for several single releases) and BBC Radio ONE. 

Having started releasing music in 2020, Macy has released an impressive 13 singles to date, Mostly notably ‘Pink Bandana’ from 2022 which has amassed over 235,938k streams on spotify alone, ‘Swear Down’ which was championed by BBC Radio ONE (51k spotify streams) ‘Shoulders Back’ from June 2023 (47,071k Spotify Streams) and her most recent release of ‘Forget Me Not Blue’ from September 2023 (43,220k Spotify Streams).  

In what can only be described as a whirlwind past 12 months, MACY has amassed an impressive international following, with over a Million streams worldwide with the numbers ever rising! 

MACY released her first EP, ‘Words4Luv’ last year and now follows this up with her second EP release entitled ‘Third Person’.

The new EP features 4 tracks including the previously released singles of ‘Shoulders Back’, ‘Forget Me Not Blue’ and the recently released single of  ‘New Light’ as well as the title track of ‘Third Person’ .

MACY has said of the EP “The Third Person EP is a mixture of tracks personal to me and the way I feel or have felt… it represents me looking at my life and my future in a brand new way”

The new song and title track from the EP ‘Third Person’ shows a whole new side to the songstress opening up a more indie sound and vulnerable vibe to her music. It’s a pleasingly delicate soundtrack with harmonious vocals coupled with ticking back beats and poignant lyrics “I wish I could see through your eyes, I wish I could myself in the third person”

The new track is released with an accompanying music video that sees the young star transformed into a simulated, animated computer character going about her day in a virtual cyber world which is perfectly befitting the track as its whole ethos is about how Macy feels she is perceived  and viewed by others. 

You can watch the official music video for ‘Third Person’ HERE NOW 

MACY’s songs are undoubtedly becoming well known for their infectious, feel-good lyrics delivered in Macy’s own individual style, and this single follows suit, playing with current sounds and trends while all wrapped up  in a traditional MACY flair. 

MACY’s journey to date has seen her undertaking several key appearances in 2022/23, including appearances at Clwb Ifor Bach and 110Above, culminating in an amazing solo performance at the star studded BAFTA CYMRU awards ceremony, at St Davids Hall, Cardiff in October, presented by Alex Jones MACY also performed at The Principality Stadium, in front of a 50,000 capacity crowd as well as performing at FOCUSwales, Rebel Fest and The Foodies Festival (Cardiff & Bristol). MACY further performed live on BBC Radio Wales (The Quinnells at Xmas) alongside Emile Sand. 

Macy has upcoming gig on the 22nd December, an acoustic gig at the Norwegian Church in Cardiff for Generation W.

Emily Marsden – Editor
#MusicSceneWales
@MusicSceneWales
musicscenewalescymru@gmail.com

Jemma Johnson Releases New Single ‘Sing It With Me’

Apr 19, 2023 — Leave a comment

Jemma Johnson is a rising singer-songwriter from Derby, UK. She has gained a following of over 64,000 on YouTube and has racked up over 20 million streams on Spotify alone, having featured on several curated playlists including ‘New Pop UK’, ‘Easy’ and ‘All New Punk’.

‘Sing It With Me’, the new song from rising talent Jemma Johnson, is an anthem for a heartbroken youth that we never knew we needed. In the wake of a difficult breakup, ‘Sing It With Me’ was written “after a solo night out trying to move on from someone and no matter what I did, the music kept pulling me back to how much I missed them” after hearing their song at a gig.

From the masterful production to the infectious vocal arrangements, ‘Sing It With Me’ is a delicious slice of mainstream pop. Minimalist in instrumentation but powerful in execution, Jemma delivers an immaculate vocal performance – cementing herself not only as one to watch, but as one of the most talented songwriters emerging from the independent music scene today.

Jemma has supported Charlie Simpson, Beth McCarthy and James Walsh and has played gigs curated by Jake Gosling. Festival slots have included Y-Not, Off The Tracks, Bearded Theory and Acoustic Festival Of Britain. Jemma has recently toured the UK and has confirmed slots for more summer festivals yet to be announced.

Jemma’s songs have received airplay from national, regional, and internet radio stations including BBC Radio 1, Radio X, Amazing Radio and BBC Introducing. Recently, BBC Introducing have backed Jemma more than ever following the release of her last  single ‘Love Rush’, not only playing the song every week since, but recently filming an exclusive session and interview. Jemma has also been a featured artist (interview and session) on Coop Radio, which was broadcast in-store across the UK.

Upcoming Gigs  

22nd April – Nottingham, Rough Trade

26th April – St Albans, The Horn

30th April – Belper Town FC 

4th May –   Manchester, Retro

21st May – London, Gladstone Arms

27th May – Burton-on-Trent, Market Garden

6th June –   London, Green Note

15th July – Belper Music Festival 

30th July – Y-Not Festival 

Emily Marsden – Editor
#MusicSceneWales
@MusicSceneWales
musicscenewalescymru@gmail.com

Jemma Johnson Releases New Single ‘Love Rush’

Nov 24, 2022 — Leave a comment

Jemma Johnson is the rapidly rising pop singer-songwriter from Derby, UK. Already having racked up over 20 million streams on Spotify and gained a following of over 64,000 on YouTube, it’s clear that this girl is going to be a star and new release ‘Love Rush’ only further cements her status as being most definitely one to watch. 

The new single, ‘Love Rush’ is a straight off the bat, high octane, shake off your troubles  and dance around the room track that is quite literally an adrenaline rush to the system  of ‘you’re so yesterday, I’ve moved on vibes’. Its the ultimate feel good break up song showing the world “I really don’t care, I’m over you”.

With its almost instantly recognisable sound, it’s clear from the very first listen that this track is something pretty special. With comparisons to the likes of Taylor Swift and Avril Lavigne, we can tell with this track that Jemma Johnson is most certainly a name that deserves to be up there with these other sensational kick-ass females. 

The track features Ed Sheeran’s drummer, Mark Pusey on it who on first listen, having loved the song so much that he immediately asked to play on the recording, further adding to the fresh energetic vibe of the track.

Jemma has said of the track::

“I wrote Love Rush when I’d had enough of toxic relationships and needed to have fun and rock out! I felt like I was a kid again going out into the world without any fears and doubts. It’s a big fuck you to heartbreak and a big shout out to confidence and new me attitude.”

Having gigged with the likes of Charlie Simpson, Beth McCarthy and playing her debut at Y Not Festival this year, Jemma continues to impress and enthral audiences with her amazing vibe and incredible catchy tunes with their relatable lyrics. She’s a musical force to be reckoned with and a name that you will be hearing a lot more of in the coming weeks and months as she continues on her upwards trajectory. 

‘Love Rush’ received its first nation radio spin last weekend when it was played by Dean Jackson on BBC Introducing East Midlands and who declared the track as being worthy of being playlisted on the major BBC radio stations and how he would be forwarding it on!

Emily Marsden – Editor
#MusicSceneWales
@MusicSceneWales
musicscenewalescymru@gmail.com

The Lunar Towers Release Debut EP ‘Hurry Up and Wait’

Nov 20, 2022 — Leave a comment

The Lunar Towers are the four-piece garage rock/pop band hailing from London and Cheltenham, composed of songwriters Rory Moore on Bass/Vocals, Joe Richardson on Guitar/Vocals, Rob Sewell on Guitar/Vocals and Bradley Hillier-Smith on Drums. 

The group deliver a lively combination of bright, melodic guitar sounds, 60s revivalism, and infectious three part harmonies to form hook-filled pop songs that draw influence from some of their favourite artists including: The Byrds, Buzzcocks, Teenage Fanclub, Ride, Michael Head and The Apples in Stereo. 

School friends Rory and Joe met by chance at the age of fifteen, when they found themselves seated together in a French class at school. The pair instantly found common ground musically when Rory noticed Joe’s poorly hidden Oasis t-shirt and Morrissey inspired haircut. During this period, they quickly realised their shared love of lyric writing and guitar music old and new, which set them on the path to forming their first band in their hometown of Cheltenham, as teenagers. In 2021, following a period of national lockdown in which they had sent demos back and forth, the boys reunited in the garden of Joe’s London home, along with old school friend and fellow music obsessive Rob, who brought his own blend of blues style guitar and melodic vocal sensibilities to the group. The duo had now become a trio with a deeper chemistry and insatiable hunger for crafting memorable pop songs.

Since then the group has grown into a full band outfit with the addition of drummer Bradley, who had worked with Joe in a previous band.

The band recently recorded ten tracks with producer Richard James. All tracks have been mastered by Pete Maher with additions from Andy Crofts (The Moons/Paul Weller band).

The Lunar Towers’ first three single releases were featured on Radio X, BBC Radio London, Boogaloo Radio, BBC Radio Gloucestershire and various other stations and playlists worldwide. ‘Wire’ and ‘Happy as Larry’ were also featured in the July 2022 issue of Shindig, described as an “ace pair of singles,” as well as Dead Good Music, It’s all Indie and various other music journals.

The Lunar Towers are now back with their latest offering in the form of their debut EP ‘Hurry Up and Wait’. The new EP consists of four melodic, garage pop songs.

The EP’s opening track ‘Plastic Glass Towers,’ blasts through the speaker with a fast-paced, jangling energy right from the off and sets the tone perfectly for the record. This infectious, hook-filled three and a half minute pop song portrays the ever-changing social conditions of London, with Joe on lead vocals and Rob delivering some ethereal harmonies.

Next comes ‘Pillar 2 Post’ with Rory on lead vocals and Rob on backing vocal duty. The song’s lyrics explore a broken relationship between two people and how someone can move from emotional blindness to forgiveness over time and gain a deeper understanding of pain passed down through generations. This track stands out for its thundering rhythm section, effervescent lead guitar parts and huge chorus which boasts a powerful blend of Rory and Rob’s vocals.

The third song on the EP is the previously released single ‘Southern Love’ which maintains the brightness and pace, delivering wonderful lead vocals from Rob, complemented by backing from Joe and Rory. A real highlight here is the song’s shift into an unexpected coda section which serves as an irresistible dopamine hit and sing-along for the listener.

The EP concludes with a slight change of pace as ‘Back To You’ delivers dreamier, laid back guitars, walking bass lines and delicate lead vocals from Joe, while still packing a punch at the very end. This track contains many great moments, at times reminiscent of songs from Richard Hawley and The Velvet Underground, while the lyrics centre on the ruminations of someone in a relationship and how romantic and spiritual connections can be lost and refound.

The cover artwork for ‘Hurry Up and Wait’ continues the collage theme developed collectively by the band for their previous three singles. These striking images have added a vivid framework of intrigue and beauty to the group’s releases and the artwork for their debut EP is no different. The collaged cover inspired by a convergence of the sacred refuge of home and the profane yet wondrous nature of the city streets, provides a bold and thought-provoking sleeve which mirrors deeply the character of the songs within it.

‘Hurry Up and Wait’ was written by Rory Moore,  Joe Richardson and Rob Sewell. It was produced and mixed by Richard James at Vacant TV and Cable Street Studios and the tracks were mastered by Pete Maher.

The EP is being released under Coloroma Records (run by Andy Crofts from The Moons/The Paul Weller Band and John Britton) and it will be released digitally and as a limited edition CD.

Emily Marsden – Editor
#MusicSceneWales
@MusicSceneWales
musicsenewalescymru@gmail.com