LeftLion's Latest Listens #8: Notts music we're currently spinning

Single: Gender Envy - Paper Planes

Photo (left): Haidi Helliwell

Gender Envy are a pop-punk band packed with personality, delivering an upbeat sound but with raw and introspective lyrics. Their latest single, Paper Planes, continues to drive this style. While the song is new, the feelings are all too familiar as the single manages to capture the bittersweet and strange nostalgia that comes with life moving on after losing someone.

It goes to show that for a band primarily making music for the joy of it, they know how to put their heart on their sleeve in a way that is both sentimental and strikingly self-aware. In short, Gender Envy continue to soar with Paper Planes taking the band to even greater heights – so dig out the old photo box, strap on the boots you were bought when you were 15, and be sure to check it out!

@gender_envy_band (Phillippa Walsh)

Single: Set in Motion - Flying Too High

Set in Motion have been on an impressive upward trajectory, refining their sound with every new release. Their latest track, Flying Too High, is no exception, featuring infectious indie-rock riffs and powerful drums that propel the song forward. Frontman Alfie Wallace continues to shine, proving his dynamic presence is only amplified by the energy of a full band. With a headline gig set for 8th November at Saltbox, this is the perfect opportunity to catch them live if you haven’t already. Don’t miss it! @setinmotionband (Gemma Cockrell / Photo: Nigel King) 

Single: The Chase - Unbreakable

Unbreakable is characterised by that boisterous brass and plosive percussion that fires full-throttle throughout - although at a slightly mellowed, ‘plodding along’ nature, it’s unmistakably The Chase. Offering more proof of their helter-skelter songwriting, this latest single introduces us with an a cappella beat reminiscent of the band’s tight-knit musicianship; cat screeches to flute solos, their arrangements are never flawed by their humour. The Chase are a band enriched with catchy nostalgia for ska and reggae inflections, and undeniably know how to make an ear-worm. @officialthechase (Talia Robinson)

Single: Marvin's Revenge - Hugs From Grandma 

Nottingham based 3-piece band, Marvin's Revenge have released they’re new single, Hugs From Grandma, in which the band have slightly strayed away from their previous sound on their EP VR Porn. The band have leaned slightly into a poppier soundscape yet have retained all the individualities which made that EP so moreish to begin with. The contrast between the deep vocals and the lighter sounding chords creates a sense of a mid-2000s pop rock sound reimagined. Moreover, the catchiness of this track also generates cohesiveness within the track, leaving a listener humming the hook hours after listening. 

Marvin’s Revenge have combined all the best elements of their previous work and added even further into this latest release, and having just headlined Saltbox in Nottingham, there’s a strong feeling that this is just the beginning.

@marvins_revenge (Tyler Kay)

EP: Cracked Hands - Mundane Hope

We’re big fans of spoken word, and Nottingham’s latest duo, Cracked Hands, brings a fresh take on the genre with their captivating blend of tumbling melodies and poetic reflections. Comprised of Milla Tebbs and Tom Hooley, the pair’s debut EP, Mundane Hope, delivers five tracks and 18 minutes of atmospheric sonic beauty. The EP masterfully layers intricate sounds while maintaining a raw, minimalist feel, creating a rich, immersive soundscape that enhances the distinctiveness of each element. Cracked Hands are among the most original acts to emerge from Nottingham this past year, and Mundane Hope is an ideal autumnal soundtrack. @cracked_hands (Gemma Cockrell)

EP: Stan Buckroyd - Aderol Spritz

After making a splash on The Voice UK as part of McFly’s Tom and Danny’s team, Stan Buckroyd has quickly become a rising star in the Nottingham music scene. He’s carving out his own space in indie rock, blending diverse influences with a distinct writing style that lets his lyrics take centre stage. His latest EP, Aderol Spritz, perfectly captures this, offering a fun, upbeat sound that’s sure to lift your spirits during the colder months. With a recent appearance at Hockley Hustle and a headline show at The Chapel this December, this artist is definitely one to keep an eye on. @stanbuckroyd (Gemma Cockrell)

EP: John Hardy - Country and Northern

This five-track EP by John Hardy is called Country and Northern and I'm a huge fan. It's a slow moving beast, a collection of Americana-influenced songs with a slow, almost menacing tempo and just perfect for the Autumn months ahead. Melancholy country pop music makes little sense but it's the best I can do to describe John Hardy's work. Strongly crafted and well recorded songs, my personal favourites are Portobello Road, Same Old Country Song, Old Bones, Enjoy The Show and Car Radio... and yes I know that's every track on the EP! Grab a bottle, light the fire, sit back and invest some time in this record. @ourmatejohn (Bassey)