PENELOPE ISLES: 3.

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Do you ever listen to a record or a band, and within seconds of listening you just feel, “I HAVE to tell someone about this?” I do. All the time, and it’s probably why I’ve been doing this for 18 years. Typing into the void. ANYWAY. I’ve been listening to the new Penelope Isles record a lot this past week, and something about it just will not leave my brain. Something about this record…something. I’m not sure what, but I think it may be due to the fact that I’m from the same place as Jack and Lily, and part of the record feels like home- even if I’ve spent the past 20 years or so escaping it, ha!

Now, for the most part the music I listen to is loud and probably unlistenable to most. That kind of music eases my brain but there are times where I need to listen to something calming. Balance. Those bands are usually the likes of Beach House, Warpaint. Along comes 3 by Penelope Isles and maybe my calming trilogy is complete. This may seem like an odd thing to write, but the record feels exactly how the front cover looks. Gentle, calm and like you are at the beach on a relatively cold day. As someone who grew up by the sea, I will always stand by that being on the beach during a cold day is a billion times better than being on the beach during the summer.

3 is a record that will stand the test of time, and if you want to compare it to Penny Isles’ previous releases- go ahead, that’s okay but regardless of if this was their first or tenth record; it is their finest work. I’ve listened to the record an obsessive amount over the past few weeks, and I’ve gone back and forth with what I’ve written so far to make sure I still feel the same about the record. I clearly do, and hand on heart- 3 is a masterpiece. Maybe it’s because they are siblings and you can hear the closeness on the record, and you can feel the purity of it. Or maybe it’s because separately and together- Lily and Jack are just incredible musicians. I know my opinion is biased based on the IOM connection but let’s allow it.

I go back to certain songs on the record but the one I adore has to be Birthdays. The lyrics to it are so observant and precious. The part where Lily gently sings, “Cat goes meow” is something I sing/say at my cat whenever I walk past her. She looks at me like I have 12 heads. What’s new! It’s such a gorgeous song, and I think Another Kind Of Love is the purest song around but with hints of heartache. Jack’s vocals on this are as exceptional, and again- another gentle moment on the record, and it’s such a beautiful way to open the record. The record is gentle and calming. Whatever you need from the record or just music in general- you will find it here. I think it’s partially why I feel quite emotional when I listen to it. It makes me miss home, but at the same time- it’s not home anymore, so you find that safety wherever you can. The record makes you feel like you are looking out to see with the wind wrapping itself around you, and you’re off into a spin. Where it takes you no longer matters, none of that matters anymore and that’s when you know you have found a jewel of a record.

Something I really love about the record is the honesty in the lyrics and how observant they are, and how easy it is to find yourself in these songs. It’s so simple, but the line on Thinking Seat, “Please don’t ask me how I am because I’ll burst out into tears” is beyond relatable. There is no one on this earth that cannot relate to that. I’m going to bloody cry when I see them next month in Paris aren’t I?! Fully resigned myself to it. The day before my birthday too!

There are many things that can make a record, and a band truly special. There’s no set “thing.” But you just know when you hear it, and that’s what you get from this record. There’s a lot of emotion on this record, and it’s the kind of feelings that give you comfort and reassurance. Everything about 3 is done so perfectly. From the production to the order of the songs- it all makes sense. Also, the album was recorded live so that adds another special layer to it.

3 is their first record with the band recording as a three-piece. The addition of Joe Taylor on drums adds another charming layer to this record, and it all comes together so perfectly. You can truly feel the sibling love on this record, and it’s another reason as to why you feel quite emotional listening to it. There have been some great records to have come out this year, but I don’t think any record has clicked more emotionally than this one. It’s next level, and it just oozes care, peace, questioning and love.

I started writing this the day the record came out, and because I’ve listened to it so much- I kept finding more things I wanted to say and wanted to get it right. I think this will be a record I go back to in 10, 20 years’ time and still feel like I do today about it. This is a record to treasure and to be utterly proud of- I’m in awe of it. Truly.

PINS: All Over.

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I say this every single time a band I love release something new- especially if they’ve not put anything out in a while- but there’s no better feeling than a band you adore releasing new music, is there? I mean sure there are other great feelings out there but y’know.

My love for PINS goes back to 2013, which makes me feel old and also really bloody proud of the band. I remember writing about their debut record, and it had this insane grip over my brain. I was playing it every day, and that behaviour has been repeated with all their records. Aside from the single I’ll Be Yours coming out last year, the last full record the band put out was in 2020- Hot Slick. They say good things come to those who wait, and on the 12th February 2027, a new PINS record will finally be with us! We are all okay to agree right now that it’ll be one of the best records of 2027, so I’m glad that’s all covered in advance. That means I can now tell you about the glory that is their new single, All Over.

When I first heard All Over, I immediate thought it sounded like Human Fly by The Cramps going headfirst into the Batman theme tune then right into Dazed By You by PINS. Mix all 3 together, and you have All Over and it’s great. It’s everything you could want from a song, and more. It’s 3 and a half minutes long, and it is PINS at their very best. I love that they have always been consistently brilliant but do not shy away from experimenting with sounds. They are a band that grow in ways many others don’t. They deserve the world and more, because they really are THAT great. I could go on and on about why I love the band, but I’ll save that for the record. For now, just take my word that All Over is PINS at their absolute best and is a perfect.

The video to All Over is perfect. Filmed in Salford, and with the art direction done by my favourite bar in Manchester and possibly the UK if I’m honest (Impiety Hour) you just know that the video is going to be stunning, right? It’s dark, it’s moody, it’s a little creepy, there’s a bit of fire and it looks freezing. What more could you want? The video matches the song, and if this feeling of the new record, If I’m Alive Now, Then I was Dead, then consider me sold. Sign me up to it all! Also, the name of the record is a dream too.

All Over is being released with No Tears, and you can still order the record here: All Over / No Tears AA side | PINS I think there are some copies left.

I really hope the new record means a tour will happen because a PINS live show is always a good time. They just get better each time, and I could happily go to their shows every night. I say it every single time I’ve seen them, but I really hope that the younger generation are at their shows and it inspires them to pick up an instrument and start their own band.

DITZ @ The White Hotel, Salford. 15th October 2026.

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Manchester and Salford are home to some amazing venues, and on Thursday night, I finally got to experience The White Hotel in all its splendour. There is no venue quite like it, and there never ever will be. To see a band, I’ve waited SO long to see in such a venue meant the world. And it’s up there as being one of my favourite gigs of 2026.

If you’ve seen Ditz live, you will know that you will experience something thrilling and slightly terrifying. Having Cal boot me slightly at the back of the head whilst crowd surfing is one of the best things to have happened at a show for me in a while, and honestly if they went a bit harder- I’d have probably taken Friday off work! Cal climbs around the venue, goes into the crowd and stalks the stage whilst pouring their heart and guts out, and it’s performances like this that you make you become ever so obsessed with a band. I’ve waited a long time to see Ditz live, and whilst I knew it was going to be unlike anything I’d ever seen or felt before- I just didn’t realise how much of an impact the show would have on me,

The setlist had the classics and some new ones thrown in, which I hope means 2027 sees us being gifted some beautiful new music but we cannot forget the hits like Four and Taxi Man. These songs live are unlike anything else, and if I wasn’t in awe of what I was witnessing on stage I’d have sung my heart out. I feel bad for those who have yet to see Ditz live because it’s an experience that goes beyond anything I can put into words. Everyone on stage is phenomenal at what they do, and if you didn’t leave feeling slightly changed- were you even there?! I think it will go down as one of those shows that people will talk about in years and years to come. Not just because of how iconic the venue is, but because of what you experience at a Ditz show.

I wish I had seen Ditz previous times when I had the chance, but I have a feeling nothing can ever compare to the show at The White Hotel. Their first and last time playing here felt truly special and the venue felt right for them. The setlist was beyond perfect but if it was to be improved, I’d have had them play every single song and just spent the whole night being totally immersed in their sound, presence, and way of creating something to terrifying yet comforting.

For one of the songs, Cal climbs up near where I think the sound desk is and looks at home as we all gaze up at them. They then hang off some part of the ceiling near the end. All of this is done barefoot which is part being brave and part being silly! Acrobatics aside, Ditz are a band that know their sound and put it across in a way that HAS to be seen live. This may be the last time we see them at this venue (and first!) but it’s definitely not the last time I see them. They’re the kind of band you’d want to see every night. It’s the way Sam’s drumming keeps them in line, Jack and Anton add the tensity of the sound and this is beautifully merged with Caleb on the bass who adds to that menacing sound. Add Cal’s vocals on top of this, and you truly have one of the best bands around. Not just on record- but live. Their sound makes me feel like I’m in the midst of a serial killer horror film; on the edge of something awful about to happen but it all kicks in, and you feel this calmness. Anxious but calm. That’s what you get from their shows, and their records. I couldn’t love this band more if I tried.

Hearing songs like I Am Kate Moss and No Thanks, I’m Full were unreal and the new songs sounded heavenly too. They’re one of the best bands I’ve ever seen live, simple as that!

GOLD CUP @ The Peer Hat, Manchester. 12th September 2026

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I was meant to write this when I got home after the gig on Saturday, but things happen and I forgot. So, excuse aside. Let me tell you about Gold Cup’s show at the Peer Hat last Saturday night.

I’ve seen them live three times now and every single time they’ve just blown my mind. After Saturday’s show, they blew my eardrums. I’d wear earplugs but I don’t want to show weakness just yet. Also, if you’re not injured after a gig in some way, did you even have a nice time?!

If you care about the music scene in Manchester, you will know that Gold Cup are one of the best around and their live shows are an experience. Their shows will make you move; they’ll make you want to drink 10 pints and move some more. Maybe don’t drink 10 pints because that’s a bit excessive but absolutely move! This isn’t a band you stand still too. They’re a band that truly come alive when you see them live, and any venue they play is lucky to have them. They deserve to be playing to thousands but for a little while, let’s just keep them safe in their home city.

Gold Cup rip through their small but thrilling and powerful discography. Every hit is played, including the more recent one I Feel Incredible, which Dan informs that this is “a song about feeling shit.” Hard relate. On repeat. I love the urgency on this song, and it does make you want to throw shit around and trash some rooms. Do it. The band want you to. Also, respect to Dan for wearing a SPUCKE shirt- really, really great band!

I Wanna Get Kidnapped is one of my favorites and it doesn’t get old seeing this one live. Neither do bops like The Numbers or 8 Ball. They do not have any bad songs, and this just proves that when we get their debut record in our ears, we will be blessed with a masterpiece. Considering the gig was nearly a week ago, my memory isn’t failing me, and I can remember just how loud (and sweaty) the show was. For me, Gold Cup are a band that you HAVE to see live. I’ve only seen them three times, but every time they’ve just been even better, and I am very aware this is a cliched thing to say, but it’s the truth. And I’m no liar!

Gold Cup make the kind of music that you can enjoy whilst wandering the streets or need something to drown out the noise of someone chewing nearby you so you don’t clothesline them or, you just need something to get rid of the heaviness of the world. Their sound is freeing and relatable. The Piss Has Been Taken and Early Bird Special are always a dream to see live, and I hope their fanbase just grows and grows because they deserve it. Manchester is home to some incredible bands, and Gold Cup are evidently one of them.

They’ve supported some amazing bands- especially this year, and I think it shows just how valued and respected they are. There’s something truly special about this band. Seeing them live once won’t just scratch that itch- you’ll probably make a habit out of it.

UP THE CUP!

MAQUINA @ The Globe, Glossop. 3rd September 2026.

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I’ve only seen MAQUINA live once prior to the show last night, and what I took from their show in Todmorden was heightened at their show in Glossop. If I could sum up exactly what it is about this band that I love, I’d struggle because nothing can cover it. I’d simply urge you to take any opportunity you have to see them and just let yourself get lost in their music.

The energy. My god the energy they have is insane. By the end of the first song, the three of them are sweating like they’ve ran a marathon (drumming whilst singing is way more impressive than running, and I will never change my mind on that.) And I think all of us in the crowd were equally sweaty. There is something really special about seeing a band that are right on the edge of taking over the world play to about 40 people. You know you’re witnessing something truly remarkable, and hopefully everyone else will catch on soon.

Every song is played like it’s their last ever show, like it’s the end of the world. It’s such a powerful thing to watch. Seeing songs like Body Control (this is a beast live, and it will blow your mind) and pressure/pleasure are incredible. Their set lasts about an hour or so, and you feel like you’ve been hypnotised right from the start. There is no other band around like this, and their sound is unlike anything else around. It’s loud, it’ll make you want to dance and you’ll feel like you’re in the safest place on earth at their show. You just become instantly hooked, and nothing around you that’s going on in your world will even touch you. It doesn’t matter. For that hour, you feel like it’s just you and the band.

My love for MAQUINA goes beyond any words and honestly, any words I write down could never express how wonderful they are. Everything about this band is just electric and the way they are on stage with each other is a joy to watch. From Halison climbing on his drum kit, João moving on the stage like he’s stalking his prey (then going into the crowd) and José playing bass unlike anyone else I’ve ever seen (if he doesn’t make you want to pick up a bass, I don’t know who will!) They also throw looks at each other that makes you understand that they are more than a band- they are brothers and absolutely adore each other. That’s what makes them such a special band and unlike anything else you’ll ever experience. They play like they are escaping into another world when they are on stage, and you are being carried far away with them. When a band can do something as powerful as this, you know you have found something really special.

I’m no dancer but MAQUINA will make you want to move, and you will move. If I can feel like I need to dance, then I know I’ve found something really special. I love that they make you feel like you are on another planet and they are the rulers of this planet. And really if this was to happen, I’d be happy and the world would probably be a better place. Their sound is so freeing and their live shows are just a heightened version of the recorded version. The passion and energy they have will leave you inspired and changed. Bands like this are why I love music and write about music.

At then end of the show, I spoke to Halison and he very kindly said the words I have written about them make them all happy but honestly, their music just makes me happy. I play them when I go to the gym after work, and I’m pretty sure their sound has made me stronger in all ways. I’ve seen MAQUINA play 2 venues that hold between 50-80 people combined, and I know how lucky I am to have seen this because it will only be a matter of time before they play bigger venues that can contain their euphoric sound. They deserve the world, and the world needs to pay attention to this band. There is something so magical about them and their live shows are a real out of this world experience.

Every single song is played as if it’s their last and with this urgency that just leaves you in awe. The sheer heaviness in their sound and the way they make you want to move in the most carefree way possible is just addictive. I don’t think The Globe knew what was going to hit it last night but my god what a venue to see them in.

Is the world ready for a band like MAQUINA? I hope so because they have a sound that cannot be contained and it simply, must be heard by all.

SPUCKE: Zustland.

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SPUCKE are a brilliant band, and although their songs are in German and I have NO idea what is being said for the most part (I translated some of the songs, and their message is solid) what I do know, is that their music is everything you’d want from a rowdy Punk band. Translation of the band name is spit which lets you instantly know that this band have something to say- and you’re gonna sit back and listen! Every song is played with everything they have. The words are said with all their chest, and will ring in your eardrums for days. Let them do it, you’ll feel better.

Their debut record came out a few weeks ago (I’m assuming it’s their debut because I can’t find anything else online about them) and if this is what they sound like with just one record, then we should be afraid of what they are capable of. Go ahead and give this band the world, they deserve it. But only the good parts.

I love the obnoxious tone in The Armrest; they don’t want to share their armrest with you on the bus/tram/train with you, and they already took their feet off the seat- what more do you want from them?! It’s an unserious number but it’s still a great song, and it’s another example of why they are one of the best Punk bands around. The sound all the way through on this record is delicious and you can’t help but want more.

I really love Beton Verzeiht Nie (concrete never forgives, I think is the translation) and how it is delivered with this urgency and you can feel that at the bones of it, it’s like a cry for help or a cry out of desperation. Don’t let that put you off, because it can be that desperation and urgency that drives a band to create something truly remarkable. Case in point on this record for sure!

For me, SPUCKE deliver feelings of hopelessness, angry and desperation in a way that’s not been done like this in a while. There is something there in these songs that stops you, and you’re like, “Ah fuck man! I feel this way too!” And you don’t feel totally at a loss by carrying it around. This is the kind of record you play when you go for a walk on your own, and you just need some time to process whatever is going on in your head. You know, there are so many moments on this record that just leave you in awe and another great example is Aversion Gegen Teile (I think means Aversion To Parts, I could be wrong here.) It’s just over 4 minutes long, and it is dark. It’s a proper heavy number. The kind of song you let consume you at 4pm on a foggy October afternoon when the streets are strangely quiet. It’ll haunt you but in the best way possible. Of all the songs on this record, I think this one may stick with me the most.

As someone who is so scared of flying, SPUCKE make me wish I could go to Germany and get lost in the Punk scene there. But instead, I’ll just listen to the music. Close my eyes and pretend I am there. They’re the kind of band that give their all in their live shows, and I hope one day I get to see them because this is the kind of energy and sound, I want to seep into my eardrums and never leave.

In just 9 songs, SPUCKE have made their mark. They have absolutely made a lasting impression on me, and I hope when I’m 80 years old, I am blasting out their music and having a great time and maybe annoy my neighbours with how loud I’m playing it. They have that snarly energy that Dead Boys had, and when you find a band that can do that- cling onto them.

Lyrically, their songs are heavy and sound wise too they will blow your mind. They are unlike anything else I’ve heard or heard in a long time, and I really hope we hear more from them because this record is too great to be a one-off for sure. If you get the chance to see them live, take it. I feel they will change your world for the better.

If you live in the UK, and you want the record- No Front Teeth Records will sort you out!

GOLD CUP.

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I’m going to assume people have known about Gold Cup longer than I have. I only really listened to them just after they were announced as the support for Crocodiles, and STUPIDLY missed them by minutes at the Low Four x Sour Grapes recording earlier in the month. What an idiot!

Alright, errors aside- it’s time to really tell you why Gold Cup are one of the most exciting bands around and why you need to see this band play any chance you get. I’ve been very lucky to see them support two great bands- Crocodiles and Gee Tee. Imagine being in a band, and you get to support those bands?! Life would surely have peaked, right?! They’ll be headlining soon enough but for now, I want to do my best to tell you why they are incredible.

On record, they are everything you could want from a band. They are noisy, they make a racket and it’s a joy to listen to. Is it the same live? Yes and no. Yes, because they are loud. No because the experience of seeing them live is way more heightened than on record. At their live shows, the three of them play with this energy that makes you wish you could watch them every single night. I wish I could. They just exude everything I want from a band and more. I feel like I’m 13 years old and listening to The Cramps for the first time. They’ve got this sound that would probably scare your neighbours but within a few hours, they too would be fans.

Their debut full length record has yet to arrive, but when it does, I have every faith in it being one of the best things we will hear. Their new single, I Feel Incredible is the true essence of sheer Garage Rock ‘n’ Roll and they sure as shit take you on another wild ride! There are bands you can liken them to but let’s be honest- Gold Cup are evidently in their own league. They remind me fair bit of a band from L.A. called Girl Tears. The band don’t make music anymore, but when I tell you I was obsessed with them- I am putting it mildly. Gold Cup have that same feel, and it’s just so great to hear.

There are some bands I love, and when I listen to them, I think, if I made music- that’s how I’d want to sound or be influenced by. Gold Cup are a band to add to that list. If you’ve seen them live, you will know that they play with all that they have. I have never seen a drummer like Tomas before. I’ve not seen anyone make the bass look as cool as Dan does, and Josh is a master on that guitar. Put all three of them together and you have something truly phenomenal and well worth becoming obsessed over. If you are ever presented with the chance to see them live, you better take it. Bands like this don’t happen often. Manchester is the home to some incredible bands, and Gold Cup are in some solid company.

They’ve been around for a few years now, and with the EPs they’ve released so far, it’s pretty safe to say that they have a clear indication of their sound, and that confidence is what makes them stand out. They’re a band you could never get bored of, and I reckon when their debut full length record hits, it will definitely show the world something it hasn’t heard before. Their live shows will leave you in total awe of them. Songs like Stuck On Repeat and The Piss Has Been Taken are insane live. I just really love this band!

Go listen to them, go to their shows, and go nuts!

CROCODILES @ The Abbey, Manchester. 12th July 2026.

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I have seen Crocodiles live more times than I’ve probably seen some family members. Crocs are family anyway so it’s fair. However, on Sunday I went to see them at one of Manchester’s newest venues (but a pub from back in the day) The Abbey. As a pub, it’s a solid 10/10 and as a gig venue it’s still a 10/10 even though I am pretty sure I have never ever sweated that much at a gig before. Sweat was in my eyeballs, back of my leg, my back, my eyeballs again. Hotter than Satan’s bumhole, but my god the gig was incredible. It always is!

Crocodiles were supported by one of the best Manchester bands around- Gold Cup. I’m going to do a separate piece on them but let it be known that they are one of the best live bands around. They’re supporting the equally great GEE TEE at Yes on the 25th July so if you can- go! There’s also air con in Yes so if that doesn’t sway you, I don’t know what will. In short, Gold Cup are where it’s at. Incredible live. I missed them by SECONDS at the Low Four x Sour Grapes recording a few weeks ago. How foolish!

I’ve been a fan of Crocodiles since 2009, and I love telling the story of how I found their music. Have you got a sec? Alright so, 2009. I’ve moved back home after finishing uni and my first girlfriend had broken up with me. One day, I go to HMV (I also worked there and it was the best job ever) and I’m looking through the records, and I spot Cold Cave and Crocodiles. Cold Cave I was aware of, so I picked it up. Crocodiles I knew nothing of, but I grabbed it anyway because the cover got me. I took the records home, and that was it. The past 16 years or so they have been my solid. I just adore them and any chance I can get; I will tell someone to listen to them. Even my mum loves them!

Alright, story time done. They open the set with Love Beyond The Grave. I think? Sunday was nearly a week ago and my memory isn’t too great, but I know they played it! They played a strong mix of old and new songs, and I can confirm that I Dream Of Genet live is beautiful. It’s got that same feel as Sunday (Psychic Conversation #9) that real dreamy number that makes you feel like you’re floating away. That’s exactly what you get from a Crocs show. You always feel like you’re going off into another world. You can’t help but be in awe of them. It’s the way Charlie holds his guitar like it’s a weapon but at the same time you know you’re in safe hands. Is he the best guitarist around? I’ll always say yes. Diego beats the shit out the drums, Atef is the coolest bassist around and Brandon’s vocals have never sounded better. Put that altogether and you truly do have one of the best bands around.

Songs from the new record sound incredible live, and for me it was all about Time Is Wasting Me. It’s one of my favourites from the new record, and it’s great live. I can’t talk about their show without mentioning their cover of 1969. This has become a staple in their live set now, and it’s a joy to see live. What I love about the cover is that they really do make you feel like it’s THEIR song and you’re experiencing it for the first time. It’s one of my highlights of a Crocs show for sure.

It all ends with one of the finest songs ever, Mirrors. I’ll always have a soft spot for this one, and it never ever gets old seeing it live. It never gets old seeing my buddies live. They just know how to put on a show even if we are all frying in the venue!

I love that even though the band have been around for a while people are potentially only seeing the band live for the first time, and you can see how much they love the band and how much it means. All I can say is, welcome to the cult! Irrespective of my biased opinion, it was a great show as always and Gold Cup were also a real joy to watch to. I firmly believe you should end your Sundays by watching some great live, loud bands. Last week was no exception!

MAQUINA : Body Transmission.

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One of the coolest things about music, and bands and just EVERYTHING about music is release day for a record you are SO excited to hear.

I’ve loved MAQUINA for a couple of years, and today their second full length record, Body Transmission is out there. It’s fully out there for everyone to enjoy, play to death and dance to. Now, as it’s been released via Fuzz Club- you just know it’s going to be sensational, right? Right on.

The record starts exactly how you would expect; with one of their most recent releases (dança – featuring Dame Area) and from then on, it’s all go. Every song gets louder and louder. That urgency to move more gets you, and you can’t help but feel you are being sucked into a new world. This world that MAQUINA have already created with their sound is unlike anything else, we already know this. But with Body Transmission, every song feels like you are being ripped out of your body and into something else. That’s one of the many reasons as to why you know you are dealing with something really magical.

Any free time I’ve had today, I have played this record. I played it twice at the gym, and I can confirm that this is a record to lift weights to. There are some strong gym jams on this record, and I reckon it is going to become my most listened record of the year right next to the new Crocodiles record. Those are my solid top 2 records of the year. My mind will not be changed, or swayed. It’s already set. For me, my favourite song on the record is Bizzaro closely followed by Step On Me. I cannot wait to hear these two songs live in September. If you’ve seen MAQUINA live, you will know that their live shows are not to be fucked with. You feel like you’ve had the most intense work out of your life after you’ve been to their shows, and you find yourself unsure if life will ever make sense again. On stage and on record, that feeling remains. After you’ve played Body Transmission once, you go back to it over and over. There’s something in this record that leaves you wanting more, and you notice EVERY detail on it. When I tell you that this is one of the best produced records of the past few years- believe me. I don’t lie, and I know everything is down to taste- but this record is next level. But that’s MAQUINA all over.

Speaking about the record, the band have said: “We wanted it to feel heavy, focused, and relentless.” They have captured this effortlessly. It is a heavy record, and also really liberating. This is a record to play as loud as you can, wherever you can. If I went to a coffee shop at 8am and this record was blasting out, I would know I was about to have the best day ever. It’s a record that looks at music genre and says “NAH, NOT FOR ME!” It’s beyond any description. Sure, there are electro moments, there are heavy moments and there are more often than not- moments where you just have to move. All of this means that MAQUINA make music that appeals to everyone. They’re for everyone, and you really get that when you go to their shows. Sure, it’s a sweat fest, but it’s also the most liberating place you can imagine.

Body Transmission feels like a million frequencies going right through your body, and all you can do is give in to it. It’s a record that is made with care and must be heard with urgency. I challenge anyone to not fall in love with this band and this record. Everything they did with PRATA, they have done all over again with Body Transmission times a billion, and more. It’s a truly exceptional record.

The way that Halison can scream his lungs out and play the drums in this ferocious manner is just enthralling. João just RUINS the guitar on this record, and he does the same on stage. He’s incredible. The guitar is his weapon, and you can’t help but dig every note, every sound. Mendy again annihilates the bass on this record, and you feel it echo in your ears and starts to thump at your throat and before you know it- all these sounds crash around you, and you have a phenomenal record in your presence. It’s a masterpiece, and it’ll make you fall in love with music all over again.

If you’ve made it this far, and you want more- you can catch the band on tour over the summer and September. You’ve GOT to see them!

Body Transmission is out now via Fuzz Club Records.

CASUAL DRAG @ The Peer Hat, Manchester. 3rd July 2026

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After waiting years to finally see them and after writing about them loads, I got to see Casual Drag play possible THE hottest venue in Manchester- The Peer Hat. I’ve been to a fair few gigs there, and I don’t recall it ever being that hot. I think my eyeballs were sweating.

I also cannot hear out my right ear, so I’m assuming a good night was had!

As short as their set was, they played with all the passion and fury you would expect from a band as great as this. It was truly lovely to see so many people there to see them, and also bands from Scotland just play with slightly more bite.

What drew me to their sounds a few years ago is truly captured in their live shows. I knew it was going to be loud, but I didn’t expect to fully lose my hearing in my right ear (I’m going to see Bruise Control later so hopefully that’ll put everything back into place!) Man, they ripped right through their set last night. We got all the hits, all the jams! They played The Master, I Like It, The Talk, Out Of Sight and many more. They were just a joy to watch.

They played Johnny too which was INSANE! I think that may have been my favourite one, but it’s hard to choose with a band like this.

The energy they have is unreal, and I honestly have no idea how Matt (drummer) didn’t pass out. Richard’s vocals are as crisp as they are on record, and his guitar is a weapon you don’t want to cross. Dominic is effortlessly slick with the bass. And they just play in a way that makes you truly back them, and just love them more than you already do. The way all 3 of them play is just a delight to watch, and I’ve honestly not seen someone play the drums as intensely as Matt does. All 3 of them play as if their lives depend on it, and I guess when you’re in a band that make music as hard and as furious as this, you kind of have to. I’d say I’d watch this band play every night, but I doubt my ears would be grateful for damaging them. But hey, if you’re not a little damaged after a gig- have you had a nice time? Probably not!

I really love finally being able to see a band I’ve loved for son long play live, because everything you first loved about them just gets heightened in that moment. It doesn’t matter the size of the venue; it just matters that you finally get to experience it. I’d honestly urge anyone who gets the chance to see Casual Drag live to absolutely take it. Maybe wear some earplugs though or don’t stand so close to the front. Thinking about it, maybe this is my own fault….

What I love about their live show is that they sound exactly the same as they do on record. They’ve been doing this a while now, and they deserve way more than they get because they truly are something else live. It is an injustice that they aren’t massive, but it’ll happen. So many incredible bands have come from Glasgow, and Casual Drag are easily in the Top 5 for sure. Everything always seems louder when you witness it live, and that’s part of the charm. They have something to prove, and my god they did just that last night.

Casual Drag have that raw basement DIY Punk/Garage sound that does own my heart (and ears) and not only are bands like this vital for the scene in general, but they are so important to real grassroots venues like The Peer Hat. Live music is so important, and that importance was truly felt last night.