To coincide with the release of one of independent rock’s most interesting, enjoyable and impressive new albums, we caught an interview with the mighty Lion Drome, to find out more about the story and sentiments behind the superb 2026 album Hero Down. Here’s the conversation in full.
Rock
Maypo Deluxe is one of indie’s most consistent artists, a songwriter with an authentic sense of heart and storytelling, holding closely to the organic rock sounds of a simpler era, and meandering from the soulful rock ballad set-up to the upbeat and addictive grooves accordingly, as we roll through more and more fantastic songs.
Great songwriting, real instrumental vibrancy and raw, passionate rock and pop vocals that feel anthemic and contrastingly gentle, throughout a well-structured gem of a single. Austin band Larsen West get the chemistry just right, with the timeless euphoria and energy of Fool’s Gold.
This sophomore album is everything fans will have hoped for from the rising indie legends, and with tens of thousands of monthly listeners keenly tuned in, 2026 presents a huge moment for The Chelsea Curve.
Unfiltered and fearless garage rock of volume, passion, distortion and warped crescendos – Estrogeno have been hard at work on the writing and performing of new songs, and we dive into a selection of 2026 releases from the nineties-inspired act.
Lion Drome are impressive, they’re interesting – first and foremost – they’re unpredictable, but they also make sure to engage listeners, with soaring riffs, powerful countering voices and energies, and stories that feel relatable but impossible to expect.
Regardless of age and how impressive this is for the work of an 11 year old, Wheerdoe is a huge track in itself – a satisfying pop-rock and grunge arrangement, with great vocals, a kind of Pixies or Radiohead-style introspection, and a fine blend of lostness and uplift that’s intoxicating.
A fine collection of songs, all impressively connected by concept and character, but also versatile enough to make this a nostalgic and hopeful project, from an independent songwriter and musician whose approach blends skill and substance to a compelling degree. Well worth escaping into this season.
Crafted in collaboration with Brazilian singer Josh Paulino, Only Pretend is both fierce and delicate, and evolves gorgeously throughout its three-minute lifespan.
UK music is fiercely impressive when it needs to be. This year feels important for live music and creativity, and Fierce Friend is firmly a part of that.
Funky basslines and live rock energy carves out a band-sound that’s hopefully making a huge comeback this year. The Lucky Angels deliver the distortion, depth and soul required to light up the space, with the solid rock stomp and tone of The world’s for sale.
Personification, metaphor, and all-round powerful songwriting elevate the appeal of an indie band well and truly paving their own way. Glasgow’s Revelation 23 have that something fresh and fascinating to their sound, something topical and piercing about their sense of purpose, their rebellious intrigue, and Veal is a fine dedication to the craft.