The Barren Marys Release “I Would Choose You” Single
Philadelphia's The Barren Marys have released their new single, I Would Choose You, that is available via streaming platforms and…
Following the success from their highly anticipated cover of Kate Bush‘s Babooshka, Bristolian post punk band Knives are back with their latest offering, Doppelganger. With a pop-infused flair that puts a refreshing twist on punk, Knives have boldly plunged into the UK alternative circuit. Fueled by a robust bassline, crunchy riff work and vocalist Jay Schottlander’s distinctive vitriolic shouting like that of a punk town crier, Doppelganger boldly takes a swing at the persistent issue of homophobia within the music industry. Knives don’t shy away from confronting the disingenuous nature of music labels, exposing their queerbaiting tactics driven solely by financial gain. In a valiant move, they challenge the industry’s professed inclusivity, peeling back the layers to reveal the underlying issues and complexities within the music business.
“There are multiple instances of artists capitalising off of the queer community, while simultaneously fans only accepting queer icons if they’re deemed as ‘good enough’. In addition, on a more personal level, we’ve had experiences with people that preach about LGBTQ+ rights, yet also spout casual homophobia. We’ve seen so many instances of people not showing their true colours, which inspired the lyric “who is the man behind the mask?.” (drummer Erin Cook)

Doppelganger serves as the appetiser, offering a tantalising glimpse into what Knives has in store with their upcoming EP, What We See In Their Eyes. Inspired by their frustration with individuals in Bristol who challenge the city’s friendly reputation, the EP serves as a musical mirror, inviting listeners into the shoes of the frustrated. The lyrics aim to immerse the audience in this perspective, urging them to confront someone they disdain and contemplate the unspoken words they wish they could express.

Knives will be playing a single release show at Brighton’s The Hope and Ruin on February 22nd and Bristol’s Outer Town Festival on the 13th April with a UK mini tour to follow in May,