Erin Strom

A new spectre looms over the scene of alternative rock, ready to strike and inject its venom with silver-gilded fangs. It’s STARBENDERS ’ fourth album offering, The Beast Goes On : haunting in parts, jaunty in others, and an all-around knockout. This is the first project to feature new drummer Qi Wei , and “holds a special place in [the bands’] hearts” for that reason - the opportunity to make brand new mayhem together. The album launches you straight into the mix with anthemic, overlaid...

In an era where Frutiger Metro is back in a big way, it’s a bold act for a band to dub themselves “Y2K-core” - and it’d be all too easy to rely on aesthetics alone to sell tickets. Nostalgia is a hell of a drug, and Gen Z is reaching that age they’re beginning to crave that high. For Oxford rockers South Arcade, though, this just isn’t enough. They’ve crafted a sound that meets the hype, fitting snugly into the playlist that auto-played on your 2007 MySpace profile, yet adding their own...

Fresh out the womb, PRESIDENT are in possession of one of the most hotly-tipped rock and metal releases in 2025. It’s an anticipation...