#bored marsh

Top 10 EPs of 2025

As we have seen, 2025 has been a huge year for new albums with The Amazons’ cinematic fourth album 21st Century Fiction named as my Album of the Year just a week or so ago. However, as many great longplayers as we received over the last 12 months, there was an equal abundance of great shortplayers too.

So, I’ve looked back over the last 12 months and picked out my ten favourites of the year from the longlist of 35 EPs which I spun in 2025. As always, I’ve gone for an eclectic selection that pulls from various genres - so, depending on your taste, hopefully you’ll find something to enjoy on this list.

First, the honourable mentions:

Chapter & Verse: At Fiction Studios by The Amazons

Close To The Flame by Bleach Lab

Everybody Scream (Chamber Version) by Florence + The Machine

KAWALA Collection by KAWALA

KELLY by Kelly Lee Owens

The Machine Starts To Sing by Porridge Radio

A Brief Intermission In the Flattening of Time by Spanish Love Songs

10. Lekkerland by Casey Lowery

They say musicians need a little bit of luck to succeed, and Chesterfield singer-songwriter Casey Lowery might just be the unluckiest musician on the planet right now.

Having been dropped from his label and lost the rights to his name (he was previously “Casey Lowry”), he managed to crowdfund this 2025 EP off the back of his big social media following. In fact, he managed to sell so many copies, it would have been a charting album – except he forgot to record the delivery addresses of those that had ordered, with only fulfilled orders counting towards the chart. Doh!

While it may not have charted though, this is still a project that deserves your attention. From the upbeat surf-pop of Caroline and Day Wave-featuring Blue Corduroys, the hilariously self-aware Kebab Tune and emotional poetry of Low Mood Season, Casey demonstrates why he’s a talent still worth the investment.

9. Back By Popular Demand by Spielmann

Making my best EPs of the Year list for the second year running, it’s the Sheffield Springsteen: Spielmann, the music persona of Ben Lewis.

While Back By Popular Demand is pretty much more of the same earworm hooks and wry lyricism that he gave us on Fifteen Minutes With Spielmann and A Better Man, it doesn’t make it any less fun the third time around. Whether that’s the soaring guitars and singalong chorus of Over It, the regretful and highly relatable Got To Go To Work, the Brexit-bashing Blue Passport or the doom-laden finale Kids On The TV, it’s another all killer, no filler collection. As if the music wasn’t good enough, I highly recommend checking out the accompanying music videos too for both Over It and Got To Go To Work (also below).

Across his three EPs, Spielmann has given us an album’s worth of great material. So much so, all the songs will be collected on vinyl in January for his Greatest Hits… so far collection. So if you like what you hear and want to support this independent artist, you can pre-order the vinyl here.

8. DoGooder by Bored Marsh

Another artist making back-to-back appearances on my Best EPs list, Nottingham rock outfit Bored Marsh have built on the foundations of the sound they forged on 2024’s Idiot, with 2025 release DoGooder successfully upping the ante.

Opening on the ominous, drone-like synths of Plastic Bag, the listener is then dropped into the dark, spiralling guitars of To Have & To Hold, with frontman Joe Need sounding more confident amidst a whirlpool of grungey riffs. Tonight! continues in the same vein, before arguably the band’s best song to date: The World In Your View. A defiant anthem for these brutal, politically-divided times, the track is built on a throbbing bassline and an anger-fuelled chorus, taking fierce aim at faux patriotism, self-serving media and growing class divide. The EP then climaxes on the intricate title track, which sees the band journey through a myriad of rock styles including dreamy shoegaze and more thunderous grunge.

With DoGooder, Bored Marsh continue their ascent, sounding even more accomplished than they did just a year or so ago. Another enthralling listen, Bored Marsh continue to fly the flag for Nottingham’s thriving rock scene and you can support them by buying their Particles vinyl release here, which includes both their Idiot and DoGooder EPs.

7. No Seperation by MSPAINT

This felt like a hallmark year for hardcore music, with Turnstile’s NEVER ENOUGH making them the genre’s biggest crossover success for years, while other heavy bands like Militarie Gun, Sleep Token and Spiritbox also enjoyed commercial and critical success in 2025. However away from the limelight there was also plenty of interesting things happening, like this EP from Mississippi rockers MSPAINT, a fantastic 15-minute listen that I repeatedly returned to throughout the year.

From the pulverising synths and enraged cries from vocalist DeeDee on Drift and Wildfire, to the scintillating sonics on Surveillance and the title track, No Separation is a blistering, energised and utterly enthralling listen. The band then save the best moment for last with Angel, which sees vocalist DeeDee yell out the refrain “But I’m staying present / this is just today” over more synth-drenched, electronic explosions.

If you couldn’t get enough of NEVER ENOUGH in 2025, be sure to check out this MSPAINT EP over the festive break. Polished yet visceral, tender yet ferocious – it’s a fascinating shortplayer.

6. The Closest We'll Get by Nell Mescal

While her brother Paul continues to rule the acting world, receiving a Golden Globe nomination recently for his performance in 2025’s Hamnet, Nell Mescal proved this year that he’s not the only talented one in the family.

Having already impressed with her earlier EPs and singles, on this 6-track collection Mescal’s songwriting abilities really begin to shine. A near-faultless project, it opens on the devastating, stark balladry of Middle Man, Mescal’s hushed vocals echoing over minimal piano keys and a soft sprinkling of synths. It’s an engrossing start, which is then followed by the catchy melody of the folky title track. The songs only get better from there, with the string-tinged break-up anthem Carried Away, the country-pop groove of See You Again and acoustic lament Lose You Altogether, all beautifully arranged and tugging on the heartstrings. Sweet Relief then offers just that, closing the project out with more strings and soaring sentimentality.

As mentioned, this is an EP that is pretty much perfect from start to finish, with each song as strong as the last with it all tying together into a cohesive and emotionally resonant, 24-minute listen. As an artist who keeps going from strength to strength, I can’t wait to see what Nell Mescal delivers on her debut album when it finally arrives.

5. King of Terrors by PRESIDENT

In a year where masked entities took over the metal world, emerging from the shadows came PRESIDENT. While the identity of the band remains a badly kept secret at this point (we know it’s you Charlie Simpson), you can’t argue that the theatrics only help add to the buzz surrounding them. However, strip all those gimmicks away, and the music is still pretty darn great.

Named after a bible passage, King of Terrors is a metalcore mini-epic, with the band making a clear statement of intent with this jaw-dropping, Deftones-inspired opening address. Both In The Name of the Father and Fearless remain two of the defining singles from the metal genre this year, with their anthemic choruses and Simpson’s, er I mean The President’s, impassioned vocal cries. However as great as those two singles are the more sonically interesting cuts are arguably elsewhere, such as the pulsating electronica of RAGE, the avalanche of screams and riffs on Dionysus or the meditative, heartfelt conclusion of Conclave.

As someone who managed to get in the tent for the band’s first-ever live performance at Download festival this summer, where this EP was played in full, it will always be one of the year’s defining projects for me for that reason, as well as the fact I have played this a bunch since its release. Watching that performance you knew you were witnessing the start of something special, with PRESIDENT surely set to follow Sleep Token as Britain’s next big metal export. Whatever their next move is, I already can’t wait to see it manifest.

4. Siren by KEO

One of the year’s breakout bands, indie-grunge quartet KEO are on the fast track to superstardom. Led by brothers Finn and Conor Keogh, the band managed to have a huge sell-out UK tour this past Autumn with many of the venues having to be upgraded due to demand. Not only that, but I also witnessed them playing to relatively small turnouts at Dot to Dot and Splendour festival earlier in the year, only to then see them play to a packed-out room at Live At Leeds in November, with everyone in the crowd singing their songs back to them.

Off the back of their rapidly growing fandom alone, this debut EP had to be on this list - however the music on Siren also justifies the early hype surrounding KEO. Generating moody, guitar-driven anthems, their sound channels early Smashing Pumpkins, Stereophonics and The Bends-era Radiohead, with more than a few similarities to their contemporaries in Wunderhorse too. Songs like Hands, Thorn and I Lied, Amber already feel like rock classics that have been around for years, while more acoustic-driven tracks Stolen Cars and Kind, If You Will showcase their versatility and softer side.

2025 was a huge year for KEO, but I have a sneaky suspicion that 2026 could be even bigger for them. My advice – get familiar now before they blow up any further.

3. People Pleaser by Soda Blonde

Dublin indie outfit Soda Blonde may have just released the live album of the year this December with Dream Big (Live with the National Symphony Orchestra), but they also delivered one of my EPs of the year back in May too with People Pleaser.

Compiling anthemic singles People Pleaser, The Saddest Thing and The Queen of Mercy, the strength of those three tracks alone would probably be enough to earn a spot here. However, add in the atmospheric Words and dramatic Live And Let Down, and what you have is a flawless five-track collection steered by frontwoman Faye O’Rourke’s passionately powerful vocal performances.

Enchanting and endlessly replayable, Soda Blonde continue to add to their already impressive discography with not a single miss yet. Having been a fan of the band for some years now, finally getting to see them live in Nottingham around the time of this EP’s release only further solidified it as one of my favourites of the last 12 months.

2. Clothed In The Sun by Child of Prague

For me, the beauty of an EP is often discovery – the first snackable compilation from a new band that introduces them to the world and begins your love of their music. Encapsulating that perfectly is Clothed In The Sun by young Irish outfit, Child of Prague.

Having discovered the band by digging through this year’s Live At Leeds In The City line-up, I was immediately captivated by the band’s sound presented on this shortplayer. Blending elements of traditional Irish folk with Midwest emo and chamber pop, their sound is warmly familiar while also feeling unique and refreshingly original. Think Black Country, New Road meets American Football and you won’t be far off the magic that they conjure up here.

Opening on short intro track Taking, the project comes alive with Grey Hairs, a song that swirls with beautifully melancholic guitars, triumphant brass horns and Jack McDonnell’s passionate vocals. If that doesn’t have you hooked then Basking Sharks surely will, with Jack McDonnell’s vocals channelling a young Ben Gibbard over some hypnotic scuzzy riffs. Then after minimal lo-fi cut Burning, the project concludes on the majestic, dancing guitars of Skin, with Amelia Durac taking on lead vocal duties and further showcasing the band’s dynamic sound.

By the time Clothed In The Sun is over, I have no doubt you’ll be left eager to hear more from this band. Easily one of my favourite discoveries of the year, as bands from Ireland continue to take over the music world, I predict big things are on the horizon for Child of Prague. As a starting point, you couldn’t ask for anything better than this EP.

1. Nothing Compares To Nineteen by Fiona-Lee

And finally, here we are at my favourite EP of the year and it’s this fantastic debut release from singer-songwriter and budding young rock star, Fiona-Lee.

Hailing from the small town of Howden in East Yorkshire, I’m not ashamed to admit that Fiona-Lee almost brought me to tears the first time I saw her perform live. Her incredibly raw talent and the immense vulnerability of her music literally stopped me in my tracks, as she sung about her battles with anxiety, depression, grief and manipulative men. She may only be 24-years old, but Fiona-Lee has already experienced a lot inside and outside of the music industry, having been playing music since her early teens. All of that is laid bare on this honest and beautifully composed first collection, proving that Fiona-Lee is the real deal and a true superstar-in-the-making.

Whether it’s singing about her difficult late-teen years on the opening title track, the heartbreaking cry for help on Mother, dealing with loss on Through It All and When I Wake Up I’m Sad, delivering an ode to her mother on Lavender or struggling with self-confidence on To Make Me Feel Good, Fiona-Lee crafts relatable anthems that frequently move you and make you want to sing your heart out.

One for fans of Sam Fender and Another Sky, if you’re in need of some therapy after a traumatic and overwhelming 2025, then book an appointment with Fiona-Lee via this EP. While there were a lot of great shortplayers this year, there were few as accomplished and that fit the mood of the last 12 months quite like Nothing Compares To Nineteen. For that reason, it is my EP of the Year for 2025.

You can read my interview with Fiona-Lee for CLASH magazine here

Top 10 EPs of 2024

As we have seen, 2024 has been a mega year for new albums with Hayden Thorpe’s Ness being named as my Album of the Year just a week or so ago. You can read why I was such a fan of that record along with my other Top 50 album picks, as well as find a playlist of my 100 favourite songs from this year, by scrolling below or simply flicking through the New Music Central archives for December.

However, as many great longplayers as we received in 2024, there was an equal abundance of great shortplayers too. In today’s hectic world where the demand for “snackable” (shout out Andrew Belt) content has risen, the humble Extended Play has seen a big resurgence in recent times.

So, I’ve looked back over the last 12 months and picked out my ten favourites of the year. As always, I’ve gone for an eclectic selection that pulls from various genres - so, depending on your taste, hopefully you’ll find something to enjoy on this list.

Honourable Mentions:

Blessed by August Charles

Sable by Bon Iver

Arable Ground by Dura Mater

Heartbreak Town by GIRLBAND!

Tunes For Late Spring by Gus Dapperton

Work In Progress by Holly Humberstone

Neptunes by Kaitlyn Aurelia Smith & Joe Goddard

Nothing Much To Say by Katie Keddie

Drop 7 by Little Simz

Marietta by Medium Build

Here we go then, my Top 10 EPs of 2024…

10. Incommunicado by Express Office Portico

A bittersweet release this from the end of March, as Notts indie-pop outfit Express Office Portico finally released their debut EP. However, the release of the project also coincided with the news that lead singer Tara would be stepping down from the band, throwing the band’s entire future into question.

A huge loss who leaves big shoes to fill, Incommunicado manages to work as both a final chapter for the band at this stage, as well as an insight into their flourishing potential should they continue. Featuring five catchy and shimmering indie-pop grooves, its highlighted by No One, In Swim and excellent single He Said She Said.

Listen here

9. Fantasies by Bombay Bicycle Club

A band that just don’t seem to miss, indie-heroes Bombay Bicycle Club followed up their much-acclaimed sixth album, 2023’s My Big Day, with this fantastic four-track EP back in February.

Very much keeping the collaborative spirit of My Big Day alive, each track features a female guest vocalist to compliment Jack Steadman’s signature vocals, with the wonderful Matlida Mann, Liz Lawrence, Lucy Rose and Rae Morris all appearing on a track each here. My personal favourite is Better Now with Rae Morris (which made my year-end playlist), however if you’re a big Bombay fan like me, then you’re sure to enjoy this short-but-sweet companion piece to 2023’s My Big Day.

Listen here

8. BAMBI by Aziya

Having discovered her off of brilliantly infectious 2023 single, Atomic, I tried twice to catch this innovative multi-instrumentalist and producer live in 2024, but failed to see Aziya both times at Dot to Dot and Lost Village respectively.

While I still wait to tick her off my list of artists to have seen live, her debut project BAMBI gave an idea of this 21-year-old’s huge potential. An album-sized EP at 10 tracks long, with each of the six main cuts interspersed with some voicemail-style interludes, it’s a fascinating debut that sees Aziya frequently deliver genre-bending blends of catchy pop hooks and grunge-style rock guitars. Still only 18 minutes in length, it’s an endlessly replayable listen highlighted by singles party’s over and crush (tom verlaine).

Listen here

7. A Guilty Heart Can Never Rest by Låpsley

Extremely talented, York-born singer, songwriter, musician and producer Holly Lapsley Fletcher, better known by her stage name Låpsley, had a very busy 2024. However, despite a wave of great singles released throughout the year, it was her latest EP, which dropped back in May, that kept me coming back for the most repeat spins.

Essentially a more “snackable” version of everything that has made her three albums such a pleasure to experience so far, A Guilty Heart Can Never Rest sees Låpsley build her own sonic world out of intriguing ambient electronica and experimental pop flourishes. From scintillating opener 4AM Ascension Day, hypnotic synth-driven highlights Kerosene Dreams and Angeles, to the dramatic, Radiohead-esque closer Build A Man, it continues Låpsley’s run of always unique and interesting releases.

Listen here

6. Redemption Songs by Jayahadadream & Zoutr

As you can see from my honourable mentions on this list alone, there’s been a bucket load of great releases from some of Nottingham’s best rising stars this year, with these next three picks my favourites from the bunch. Possibly the biggest of those released this year was this debut EP from Jayahadadream, coming fresh off the back of her victory in the Glastonbury Emerging Talent Competition over the summer.

For those new to Jaya’s music, Redemption Songs is the perfect introduction to her incredible talent. Seeing her team up with equally talented Notts producer Zoutr for the project, it showcases Jaya’s breathtakingly nuanced flow and flair for engaging storytelling. From singles Twiggy and Stubborn, through to the intimately ambient Ur In Love and the glistening guitars of the title track, it’s a dazzling 20-minute listening experience.

Listen here

5. Maid Marian Way by LYVIA

However, another Notts superstar worth checking out is soulful pop sensation LYVIA, who also released her debut shortplayer this year. The EP takes its name from a road running through Notts where LYVIA can often be found recording her viral videos for social media. Now taking the energy of those raw takes to the studio, Maid Marian Way showcases her unique blend of pop melodies, spoken word rap and R&B swagger, with plenty of heart and relatable experiences in the lyrics too.

Every song here is a highlight as well, from the spellbinding and piano-laden opener Barriers, the infectious groove of Rock With Me, through to the stripped-back and sincere Homesick. This project is LYVIA demonstrating her immense talent and commercial appeal at full force, and I personally can’t wait to see what she does next.

Listen here

4. Idiot by Bored Marsh

From lockdown hobby to one of Nottingham’s best bands - rock outfit Bored Marsh also finally released their debut EP in 2024, and it fully lived up to the high expectations they have set over the last few years with their thrilling live performances. Filled with hypnotic, dark and spiralling guitar passages, as well as big, anthemic choruses, the Idiot EP delivers the band’s mission statement in typically epic fashion. From one of the year’s standout singles in Alright, OK! to live favourite Honest Day’s Work, it’s a fantastic first outing.

Here is what I said in my CLASH review back in September:

“Everything that has gotten Bored Marsh attention so far is laid out tightly on this EP. From Joe Need’s passionate vocals to the dynamic and stylistically varied guitars, the appeal of Bored Marsh’s sound is evidently clear from this first collection. Reflected in Broadmarsh’s recent rejuvenation, Bored Marsh have ascended from the bleakness of lockdown to present the confident and assured band found playing on this EP. While the music itself often remains dwelling in the darkness, the hopefulness is carried in their massive, soon to be realised, potential.”

Listen here

Read the full review for Clash here

3. Fifteen Minutes With Spielmann by Spielmann

From Nottingham to Leeds now, another UK city that has had a tremendous 2024 thanks to artists such as English Teacher, Yard Act and Nia Archives. However, another artist that quietly caught my attention is songwriter, producer and multi-instrumentalist Ben Lewis, AKA Spielmann, who I discovered through Dot to Dot a few years back and finally saw live earlier this year at Get Together in Sheffield.

Well worth fifteen short minutes of your time, Spielmann’s latest EP is bursting with joyful splendour, boasting big stadium-sized choruses, witty lyrics and shimmering synths. The mantra may be admittedly a familiar one at times, but that doesn’t make it any less fun, as Lewis’ unique way with words always keeps it fresh too.

Described by himself as “Harry Styles for 6Music Dads”, you’ll also find shades of Bruce Springsteen and Brandon Flowers on highlights 10,000 Hours and Under The Weather.

Listen here

2. Lagos Paris London by Yannis & The Yaw

In lieu of a new Foals record in 2024, frontman Yannis Philippakis kept us fans well fed by finally releasing his long awaited first solo project this year, and it’s ended up my runner-up here.

A dazzling, collaborative five track EP featuring the late-great Nigerian drummer Tony Allen, it’s a project as vibrant and sonically adventurous as the globe-trotting title would suggest. While Yannis brings his signature guitar grooves to the table, some soaring string arrangements, jazz-like horns and Allen’s Afrobeat-style drums ensure the project always has a different feel to anything under the Foals banner.

Whilst the whole EP is well worth 20 minutes of your time, it is Rain Can’t Reach Us and Clementine that particularly stand out for me. Both featuring Yannis’ jittery riffs but with a good measure of worldly sonic influence from the other members of The Yaw, it showcases the rich, audio delights we can come to expect from Yannis’ solo venture, should he return for another helping in the future.

Listen here

1. Time Is Forever by Holly Macve

So here we are then, my favourite EP of the year – Time Is Forever by Galway-born singer-songwriter, Holly Macve.

There is quite simply nothing better than a perfect shortplayer, one that isn’t too long and where every song is as outstanding as the last. I’m pleased to say that Time Is Forever is that EP. While Macve also released her gorgeous third studio album Wonderland in 2024, this EP is essentially the bitesize version of that full length project, with the shortened tracklist and runtime allowing these songs to have a punchier and more profound effect.

Self-described as a series of “diary entries”, it is Holly laying bare her inner thoughts and feelings across five exceptionally honest and majestic tracks. From the waltzing liberation of Beauty Queen to the gut-punch heartbreak of Dreamer, to the beautifully understated, Lana Del Rey-featuring piano ballad Surburban House, it is just effortlessly stunning at every turn. However, Holly saves the best two moments for last, thanks to the hazy soulfulness of the EP’s brilliant title track, which is then followed by the gorgeous, hopeful Americana of 1995.

If you’re a Lana Del Rey fan and haven’t heard this EP yet, do not sleep on it – not just for the Lana feature itself, but because Holly frequently echoes the pop icon at her intoxicatingly timeless best. Beautiful and brilliant, it was easily my standout shortplayer of 2024.

Listen here

5-9’s Album of the Month Podcast – latest episode out now!

The latest episode of the 5-9 Album of the Month Podcast is here and it’s a big clash of rock giants both old and new! As ever, I take a seat alongside 5-9 Editor Andrew Belt and Mama Mañana Records’ Kiley Larsen to review five high profile album releases from the past month in music, ultimately naming one as our Album of the Month at the end of the discussion.

For our July 2024 episode, it was Hot Chip’s Joe Goddard who took home the coveted Album of the Month title, wowing us with his feature-heavy second solo album, Harmonics. For our latest episode, we look back at five big releases from August and the albums vying for recognition this time around are:

Romance by Fontaines D.C.

Champion by Pom Poko

Aghori Mhori Mei by The Smashing Pumpkins

Infinite Health by Tycho (Poll winner, thanks for voting!)

Midas by Wunderhorse

If you want to listen to this or any previous episodes simply follow the links below, but also be sure to follow 5-9 Blog on Instagram, Twitter and YouTube for more news and polls relating to the podcast.

Listen on Spotify here

Watch, like and subscribe to our YouTube channel here

Album & EP Recommendations

Ness by Hayden Thorpe

“When going on a sonic journey into the wild, who better to chaperone than former Wild Beasts frontman, Hayden Thorpe. Six years after the disbandment of the acclaimed art-rock quartet, the singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist has since firmly established himself as a solo artist, thanks to the stark balladry of ‘Diviner’ and the synth-soaked majesty of ‘Moondust For My Diamond’. Now back with his third solo album Ness, an adaptation of author Robert Macfarlane’s book of the same name, Hayden has successfully crafted his most magical and ambitious project yet. Hayden Thorpe’s Ness ends up being more than just another album. Where Macfarlane’s book was part-novella, part-prose and part-poem, Hayden too has crafted a piece of art that blurs the lines between music, audiobook, spoken-word and classical composition. It’s simply a one-of-a-kind auditory experience, one that whisks you away to a place full of historical dread and natural wonder, which feels all too relevant for today’s world. Through Hayden, Ness Speaks – and it’s quite unlike anything else you’ll hear all year.”

Listen to the album here

Read the full 9/10 album review for Clash here

Watch or listen to our exclusive interview with Hayden on the making of the record here

Someday, Now by Katy J Pearson

The evolution of British singer-songwriter Katy J Pearson has been quite something to witness. From her solid debut Return back in 2020 to her ultra-impressive follow-up Sound of the Morning in 2022, Katy has taken sizeable steps forward and matured her songwriting with each new release. So, it is no surprise then that not only is ‘Someday, Now’ her best record to date, but it’s also one of the year’s best too.

Filled wall-to-wall with soaring, string-tinged indie-pop anthems, this is without a doubt her boldest collection yet, where the production throughout is exquisite and the vocal performances remain as sublime as ever. The orchestrated delights of Save Me and It’s Mine Now dazzle early doors, before the jittering riffs of Grand Final and the stripped-back majesty of Someday light-up the back half. However, Pearson arguably saves the two best songs for last, from the melancholic sway of Siren Song to the triumphant, bluegrass finale, Sky.

Overall, this is another all killer, no filler release from Pearson, one that perfectly fits the Autumnal weather, to the point that I can’t seem to stop playing it. A magnificent record that sees Pearson continue to go from strength-to-strength.

Listen here

Cascade by Floating Points

We have been spoilt for incredible electronic records in 2024, but this new one from Samuel Shepherd, AKA Floating Points, is right up there with the year’s best.

After his much-acclaimed collab album with Pharoah Sanders (a record I personally found quite underwhelming) I’m pleased to say Shepherd has returned to the club for his latest album. ‘Cascade’ is a fitting title too as listeners are treated to an avalanche of sonic splendour, beginning with the dizzying Vocoder club mix and pulsating Key103, before the vibrant euphoria of Fast Forward and throbbing, distorted beats of tracks like Afflecks Palace and Tilt Shift. That said, the pick of the bunch is the enchanting, near 9-minute sonic journey Ocotillo, which begins as an understated dash of ambient electronica before morphing into a racing barrage of static synths.

All in all, one of the year’s best from the genre and an incredible listening experience that will pull you back in for repeat spins.

Listen here

Dance, No-One’s Watching by Ezra Collective

When your last album not only wins the Mercury Music Prize but also makes history by being the first jazz record to do so, you better believe there’s going to be some pressure on the follow-up. However seemingly not phased at all, the quintet that make up Ezra Collective have returned a year to the month with their joyous third album ‘Dance, No-One’s Watching’, which I’m pleased to say is every bit as dazzling as its award-winning predecessor.

A celebration of music that makes you dance inspired by their triumphant 2023 world tour, the mosaic of global influences is condensed into this incredibly satisfying, groove-tastic concept album, set around a liberating night out. From the West African rhythms of Palm Wine, the gospel guided duo of Hear Me Cry and Everybody, to the cherry on top features from the likes of Olivia Dean, Yazmin Lacey and Moonchild Sanelly, it’s another captivating work from Ezra Collective that will just put the biggest smile on your face.

Listen here

HOPECORE by Rahim C Redcar

You may not recognise the name Rahim C Redcar, but you may be familiar with his former musical pseudonym, Christine & The Queens. Now officially releasing music under his chosen name, ‘HOPECORE’ is a debut album of sorts for this new identity, after it was first introduced on Christine & The Queens’ projects, Redcar les adorables étoiles (prologue) and Paranoïa, Angels, True Love.

Sonically this new release isn’t a million miles away from those projects, boasting a hypnotic collection of synth-soaked sonnets enriched by theatrical, live-sounding production. This rawness of the production is the big fascination point, helping to supercharge these songs so that the impassioned vocal performances and aching lyrics pour out of each bar.

Like it was on Paranoïa, Angels, True Love, at times it also sounds like Rahim Redcar just riffing in the studio, giving these tracks a magical, improvised nature. None more so than on the album’s phenomenal 20-minute centrepiece, OPERA – I UNDERSTAND, which will certainly test the patience of some, but also blow the minds of others. Add in other sensual sensations like ELEVATE, DEEP HOLES and RED BIRDMAN EMERGENCY, and what you have is another towering work of art from one of alt-pop’s true visionaries.

Listen here

Stream of Life by Maxïmo Park

For more than 20 years, Geordie heroes Maxïmo Park have been one of the UK’s best manufacturers of certified indie bops and, as a result, one of my sentimental favourites. While not all their records have completely hit the mark, their output has generally been solid over that period and their last outing, Nature Always Wins, was one of their best yet.

Now back with their eighth studio album ‘Stream of Life’, the band are looking to build on their creative purple patch with a new record that digs into the complexities of the modern world and human existence. Now, what was special about listening to this record for the first time is that I got to experience it first in a live setting, as the band played the new album in full at their recent show at Metronome, here in Nottingham.

It was a revelation, making me wish more bands would do a pre-release album launch show, rather than a post-release album launch show (although I appreciate this helps more with the chart battles). So rather than reviewing the album here (which in short, is fantastic!), I thought I would share my review of that night at Metronome and experiencing the album for the first time.

Read my review of the Stream of Life album launch show here

Listen to the album here

A Modern Day Distraction by Jake Bugg

“After his revelatory self-titled debut made Bugg a star, earning him a Mercury Prize nomination, critical acclaim and legions of fans the world over in the process, his subsequent efforts have admittedly been more of a mixed bag. While each of his four albums since have had their fair share of moments, none have had the consistency of his brilliant first outing. Seemingly recognising this, Bugg has gone back to basics on his new album ‘A Modern Day Distraction’, abandoning the more pop-influenced sounds of his previous outing ‘Saturday Night, Sunday Morning’, to instead return to the blues-inspired indie rock & roll that brought him to the dance. While it may ultimately be a solid rather than sensational listen, this is an enjoyable sixth outing from Jake Bugg that marks a reasonable return to form, while also providing more than a few strong highlights. By getting back to what he does best, this is a sizeable step in the right direction, with ‘A Modern Day Distraction’ easily his most well-rounded project since his beloved debut.”

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Read the full review for Clash here

Idiot EP by Bored Marsh

“Bored Marsh, made up of Joe Need (Vocals), Brad Westby (Guitar & backing vocals), Jade Bowman (Bass guitar) and Paul Mason-Smith (Drums), formed during the height of lockdown. At a time when the music industry was facing an uncertain future, these four friends were sharing demos and bonding over a shared love of Oasis’ ‘Be Here Now’. While it may have started out as just a hobby, once Bored Marsh were able to get out and start playing their music live in front of crowds in late-2022, their popularity in their home city of Nottingham quickly blossomed. Fast-forward to today and their reach is now expanding well beyond the NG postcode, playing industry showcases in different cities, festivals further afield and getting their name on national lists of the country’s best unsigned bands. Now with this their debut EP, they are ready to officially make their introduction to rock fans across the UK and beyond. Everything that has gotten Bored Marsh attention so far is laid out tightly on this EP. From Joe Need’s passionate vocals to the dynamic and stylistically varied guitars, the appeal of Bored Marsh’s sound is evidently clear from this first collection. Reflected in Broadmarsh’s recent rejuvenation, Bored Marsh have ascended from the bleakness of lockdown to present the confident and assured band found playing on this EP. While the music itself often remains dwelling in the darkness, the hopefulness is carried in their massive, soon to be realised, potential.”

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Read the full review for Clash here

Also well worth checking out:

Manning Fireworks by MJ Lenderman

Same Mistake Twice by The Howl & The Hum

The Greatest Love by London Grammar

Ten days by Fred Again…

WOOF. by Fat Dog

Hysterical Strength by DEADLETTER

Gary by Blossoms

INTRO by Kaeto

Emita Ox by Hello Mary

It's Nothing by Dolores Forever

Song Recommendations

Alone by The Cure

Autumn has arrived and after 16 long years, the gothic kings are back with new music. Their much-anticipated new record ‘Songs Of A Lost World’ drops on the 1st of November and our first taste is the album’s near 7-minute opener. Typically dreamy yet aching with melancholia, it’s an outstanding return from one of music’s true greats.

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The Lighthouse by Stevie Nicks

Speaking of musical greats with new music, rock icon Steve Nicks has also recently returned with her important new single, The Lighthouse. Written in the wake of Roe v. Wade being overturned, it’s a hopeful and inspirational track centred on women’s rights. Powerful and hard-hitting in every sense, it shows Stevie still has the gift of shaking the earth when needed.

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SPEYSIDE by Bon Iver

Announcing a new EP for mid-October, Justin Vernon and Co. have also returned with this utterly stunning new single. As beautifully moving as even their best work, SPEYSIDE marks a return to the understated and stripped-back sound that made their early work so special, with Vernon’s vocal performance as goosebump-inducing as ever.

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Living A Lie by The Amazons

Watching Reading-based trio The Amazons grow from promising indie upstarts to one of the best rock bands in the country has been one of my biggest musical pleasures over the last decade. Now back with a seismic new single that marks the start of their new era, Living A Lie may be their most accomplished track to date. With outstanding guest vocals from Ella McRobb, a rumble of stomping drums and typically scintillating / jaw-dropping guitar work from Chris Alderton, it’s just an absolute triumph.

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The Silence That Remains by The Horrors

After ending their last album with Something To Remember Me By and then giving us nothing but radio silence for the past eight years, I had come to terms with the fact that psych-rock outfit The Horrors may be no more. So you can imagine my joy this week when the band finally returned with news of a new album, ‘Night Life’, due for release in March next year. This first taste is vintage The Horrors too, showing that despite the time away and changes in the line-up, they can still deliver the goods that fans expect.

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Otherside by Maribou State & Holly Walker

A group that has been away almost as long as The Horrors, electronic duo Maribou State also finally made their return this week. With Chris Davids thankfully recovering from the brain surgery that forced shows to be cancelled and their new album to be postponed, the vibrant and joyous rhythms of Otherside are an early sign that new record ‘Hallucinating Love’ will be well worth the wait, as regular collaborator Holly Walker also once again lends her sweet vocals to the track.

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Oh Boy by Oscar & The Wolf

With his new album ‘TASTE’ only a few weeks away, Belgian superstar Oscar & The Wolf has been ramping up the single releases in the build-up to the 25th October. The standout has been Oh Boy, the devastating closing track on the album which, based on the singles so far, seems to deal with a tough break-up from a toxic relationship. This song is only made more impactful by the striking music video that accompanies it, featuring home footage of singer Max Colombie in a stirring dedication to his mother.

Watch the video here

Human Frailty by One True Pairing

Another artist continuing the build to his new album is Tom Fleming, former member of Wild Beasts and the genius behind One True Pairing. This latest single continues the sonic shift from the soaring stadium rock that made up his solo debut to a more stripped-back and folk-inspired sound. This latest single is one of the best yet of the pre-released singles, featuring stirring acoustics and a tender, self-aware message of acceptance.

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All My Freaks by Divorce

For folks of Nottingham like myself, one of the most exciting album announcements of recent times. In March next year, fast-rising local quartet Divorce will finally release their debut album, ‘Drive to Goldenhammer’. The first track to be revealed from the debut is All My Freaks, with the country-inspired indie-pop track representing everything that is so wonderfully captivating about this band. Get ready for a Nottingham takeover of UK Music in 2025!

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Nightcall by Kavinsky, Angèle & Phoenix

And finally this month, while I don’t have a cover for you all this time around, I do have a fun reimagining of a classic. You may know French producer Kavinsky’s iconic single from either Nicolas Winding Refn’s film Drive, or possibly London Grammar’s atmospheric cover. Well now, as first heard at the Paris Olympics back in the summer, the new version with the addition of French indie rockers Phoenix has officially been released, bringing a fun new spin to this old favourite.

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Also worth checking out:

Eusexua by FKA Twigs

A Hole In The Ground by Porridge Radio

Love Second Music First by Self Esteem

In My Dreams by Four Tet & Ellie Goulding

Timeless by The Weeknd & Playboi Carti

Still Riding by Barry Can’t Swim

Can’t Pretend To Know by The Murder Capital

Mistake / Better Man by Katie Keddie

REMINDER: If you use Apple Music, you can also keep up-to-date with all my favourite 2024 tracks through my Best of 2024 playlist. Constantly updated throughout the year with songs I enjoy, it is then finalised into a Top 100 Songs of the Year in December.