Ri reviews
tracks we love
iZZY / BARSTAFF
The latest release ‘iZZY’, straight out of Wigan from Indiepop storytelling supremos Barstaff is their best yet, and builds impressively on previous bangers such as Outta You League and Telephone Tough Guy.
This track serves up sunshine flecked melodic gorgeousness, pumped through a melancholic heart. Using a double perspective duet, it cleverly weaves a story of lament about break-up, bus journeys, arriving on doorsteps and Kentish Town. It’s an ultimate realisation of the power in relationships and the fragmented steps it sometimes takes to come together as one.
Positioned nicely now in the dark days of winter, this track gives a hint of summer, the challenges we all face and brighter days ahead. At the of the track, the band say ‘that was a sic track that’. Indeed it is.
For fans of Blur, The Divine Comedy, SOAP, Welly, My First Time.
Check them out live here
IGUANA / Glossy Boy
Indie bangers are certainly not an alien concept to Glossy Boy. If anything, the band have already established their expertise in the delicate alchemy of crafting future anthems.
Unveiling their first self titled EP in 2023, the band are already carving their way through an incredible underground British indie rock scene with Vaccines-esque hooks and infectious melodies.
Their latest release ‘Iguana’ is a palpable divergence from their signature indie pop sound, but very welcome. Quenched in unapologetically raw and emotionally charged vocals, the fusion of buzzing guitar solos and high powered drums paint an intensely explosive and highly volatile romance.
As toxic relationships and crocodile tears step up to centre stage, the rest of the track keeps listeners on their toes. Sonically challenging itself, the band showcase an experimental streak and passion to expand their musical repertoire.
Trust me, you’ll want to keep an avid eye on what Glossy Boy will achieve in 2025.