Tracks That Please from Overseas: The Top 8 Recent U.K. Singles
By Sami Ridge
There seems to be no end to a relentless stream of post-outbreak European releases, and I’m really not complaining. July gave us Fontaines D.C.’s A Hero’s Death, the Dublin outfit’s introspective sophomore album, and IDLES’ Ultra Mono is just around the corner, like a ship approaching an anxious reception on the shore. Our titans from across the pond have never failed to impress, to inspire, and to rally—and, with that in mind, here are my top 8 picks for some of the best, recent singles from overseas, by somewhat lesser-known talent (at least to American ears).
8. GHUM – California
Let’s start this list back in January with the femme quartet, Ghum, and their multilingual masterpiece. Effortlessly incorporating dark imagery with a unique take, it’s no surprise that this track has garnered such high accolades, named by The Fader as one of the ‘20 best rock songs right now,’ aside from its debut on BBC Radio 6. “California” is a journey cut into fragments, from inclusions of Spanish poetry to Ghum’s distinct energy, moving towards a ghostly finish. The catharsis of its lyrics, and its fighting urgency and layers of dark tones make it a wonderful listen.
7. Iceage- Lockdown Blues
The list progresses by hitting The Problem right on the head with signature, danceable ambiance courtesy of Denmark’s own Iceage. This tune is the most direct address to our globe’s crisis since it all began, driving hard with lines such as, ”Like rings propagate in water/Motion's no vaccine/Those cut-off wages darlin'/Don't rinse down with Listerine.” But, if not for an attentive listen to its lyrics, one could easily find themselves sliding their feet along the floor to its lively sway regardless of the climate. It’s a track that’s honest, and welcome for the times.
6. Lucia & the Best Boys – Let Go
Now, I love a good, husky croon, paired with even tempo and grade-A lyricism; and to have found that in such a lively group, known more for their high-energy electronic numbers and gothic aesthetic, is proof of perfect development in a band. On this track, Lucia Fairfull continues to shine through as a powerful vocalist, and “Let Go” fully flexes that fact in this mellower waltz. For more delicious ‘80s dancefloor vibes, one need only to refer to this year’s EP from the band, Eternity…but for the purpose of this list, I acknowledge “Let Go” as a beautiful career choice for Lu and her boys.
5. Squid – Sludge
My appreciation for bands like Squid is mainly due to their genius innovation. While Squid’s “Sludge” still carries a lot of post-punk’s defining features, it manages to include distinctly unique parts that make it interesting, fun, and whole—bouncing shrieks, choice keyboarding, groovy guitar licks, and a deep, rhythm section, rising high and dropping gently. Equal parts atmospheric and frank, “Sludge” is a ‘woke’ addition to their set.
4. LICE – Arbiter
Simply put, Bristol’s amalgamation of noise and art rock is best brought forth by LICE. “Arbiter,” the band’s latest, is an industrial climb towards peak aggression; a monster of a tune, it’s a see-saw of wailing guitars, driving chants, and heavy chords. Once at the top, only the track’s abrupt finish will restore your breath.
With only a few years’ worth of singles under their belts, their unique departure from any established genre, and the potential for a monumental first album, we can only hope LICE will push on with more songs like this.
3. CLT DRP – I Kill for Nothing
This song would’ve easily made number one if not for my firm decision to number chronologically (by release date) on this countdown.
There is something deeply satisfying about a band known for their abrasive staccato style, wide range of vocal talent, and unapologetic image. Brighton’s CLT DRP gives all of these in the wildest display of ability that I’ve heard in a long time. Fusing electro-punk with pure feminism, (think Peaches with a violent streak), their sound is the birth of a genre so fresh that it has yet to be labelled.
“I Kill for Nothing” gives a taste of their debut release, Without the Eyes, coming out on the 13th of this month, and a powerhouse in its own right.
2. Brutus – Cemetery (Live in Ghent)
Speaking of beautiful female aggression…Brutus, hailing from Belgium, kicks your misconceptions about them from the highest possible window. Rooted more in post-hardcore sentiment, these guys were most definitely made for stadium performing, and with “Cemetery,” their potential is on full display. Some bands find their sweet spot, playing to a contained club; as this band’s name suggests, Brutus has and continues to deliver a colossal experience, even in a 4-minute single like this. Hail Brutus.
1. Cabbage – You’ve Made an Art Form (From Falling to Pieces)
With all of Cabbage’s work, there’s a great marriage of human commentary—vocalist Joe Martin was a performance poet, after all—and English rowdiness, blanketed by hooky pop-gloss. Listeners can discover this once again with this track, an ode to mental health.
I can’t say enough good things about a band willing to align themselves with an established genre (post-punk), tweak it, and come out with a wholly intellectual piece. On this track, you’ll find shoegaze, a touch of psychedelia, and enough satisfying elements to make a memorable song…but, for the full experience, take a moment, and listen to its message, too.
Make sure to check out Sami’s most recent track countdown, below.