LeftLion's Latest Listens #55: Notts music we're currently spinning

Single: Panchiko - One Car Hits Another

A glitchy pop masterpiece from the iconic Panchiko that is a testament to their talent. The vocals from Owain Davies and U.S. musician Mei Semones flow beautifully together alongside a truly grandiose instrumental. The lyrics are tasteful but deep, and perfectly compliment the lush synths, guitars and drums. The sound of this track is a clear progression from the previous sounds, whilst still sounding like the same old loveable Panchiko. One Car Hits Another has a soaring, timeless quality and is the perfect soundtrack for an introspective walk through Nottingham city centre. The song does not overstay its welcome, fizzling out with a euphoric synth outro. But this song certainly will not fizzle out of any minds anytime soon: it's an exciting look at where Panchiko are to go from here. @panchiko_deathmetal (Josh Turner)

This track is Panchiko's lead single from their recently announced third album, Chimera, due for release on 9 April 2027.

Single: Keane Baldwin - There is No One Quite Like Reg Dwight

There’s a really talented pianist in Nottingham called Keane Baldwin who would appear to have a spiritual hotline to Elton John. This up and coming local lad’s latest release cites the megastar born Reg Dwight as the inspiration that gave his life real meaning and direction. There’s No One Quite Like Reg Dwight is Keane’s heartfelt ode to the great man that encapsulates his yearning to share with others the same joie de vivre that he gets from Elton’s music. Through the medium of his music, Keane explains how Elton John changed his life in a number that is a highly infectious earworm relentlessly driven along throughout with a boogie woogie rhythm. Later on in the song, groovy rock-and-roll guitar licks reminiscent of The Bitch Is Back add an extra dimension, with Keane repeatedly singing “Go little Reggie!” as the song reaches its joyful conclusion. @thekeanebaldwin (Claire Spencer)

Single: CATHEDRA. - Somebody's Daughter

CATHEDRA. are only just beginning and already making (dark)waves with their third single, Somebody’s Daughter. Transporting you to the iconic age of New Order and Depeche Mode with their 80s-inspired sound, this rising duo ensures you Just Can’t Get Enough. The song itself explores a darker side of love surrounding obsession, blame, and identity, creating a naturally more gothic feel that harmonises well with the lyrics and layers of synth. These themes combined with an infectious rhythm make it perfect for low-lit nightclubs filled with people cavorting in black, red, and lace. For only the third song from a band formed through unexpected collaboration, CATHEDRA. holds a lot of potential for the future, showing promise we pray they keep – a dark church well worth the worship of its growing fanbase. @wearecathedra (Phillippa Walsh)

Album: Emily Ashberry - Ocean Big & Wide

With her debut album, our city's own Emily Ashberry sets out to explore the oft-mysterious connections between English and American folk music. She launches into the quest immediately, boldly presenting her first ballad, Sprig Of Thyme, with a lone vocal. A squeeze box and muted electric guitar are her only companions for the rest of this opening song – it’s a stark and brilliant way to lay down her cards. After that, Emily opens her songbook wider with songs such as Pretty Saro, or the overtly U.S.-drawn Letters to Kentucky. Highlights come in the form of Hard Times Come Again No More, a classic song with a simple and beautiful main refrain, and the very personal Song For My Grandfather.

The Appalachian vibes are strong as Emily brings us right into that cabin in the woods, yet she succeeds also in drawing from English roots and looking to the future. @emilyashberry (Phil Taylor)