Tag: Rock

Simon Walker – In your eyes

ByDaniel PackhamCategoriesInMusic ReviewsPosted onOn

After gigging up and down the country, Simon Walker eventually caught the attention of major artist Yungblud, earning himself a coveted spot at the UK festival Bludfest. This breakthrough marks a significant moment in Walker’s growing career, bringing his music to a much wider audience and cementing his reputation as an emerging talent to watch. With a track as striking as In Your Eyes, it’s no surprise he’s stepped into the spotlight.

The song carries an uplifting, inspirational message, encouraging listeners to embrace who they are without apology. Walker reminds his audience that individuality is something to celebrate and that choosing to be different is a strength rather than something to hide. Rooted in the indie-pop genre, the bright, melodic production and shimmering instrumentation perfectly complement the track’s hopeful spirit.

The standout lyric “be who you want to be” reflects Walker’s dedication to creating music that spreads positivity and reassurance. His ability to blend meaningful themes with catchy, accessible songwriting allows In Your Eyes to resonate deeply with listeners, offering both comfort and motivation. It’s this combination of authenticity, emotional honesty, and musical charm that continues to fuel his rise in the UK music scene.

Find out more http://www.instagram.com/simonwalkermusic

The Laikers – Faker

ByDaniel PackhamCategoriesInMusic ReviewsPosted onOn

Originating from Holmfirth, Yorkshire, The Laikers are an upbeat indie-pop band renowned for their lively performances and distinctive sound. They not only play great covers but also write their own music that really shows who they are as a band. Their new track, “Faker,” focuses on the idea of being let down by celebrities who pretend to be something they’re not. It’s a song about betrayal, disappointment, and trying to figure out who you can actually trust.

The track leans into an indie-rock style, built around a strong, catchy guitar riff and powerful vocals that give the song a real sense of impact. The energetic drums and clear production help the track feel bold and direct, matching the message of the lyrics. Overall, “Faker” shows how The Laikers can mix meaningful themes with a punchy, enjoyable sound that sticks with you.

Find out more: https://www.instagram.com/the_laikers_holmfirth

Dean Antoni – The DF

ByDaniel PackhamCategoriesInMusic ReviewsPosted onOn

“The DF” by Dean Antoni is a thoughtful and emotionally resonant track that blends introspection with a gentle sense of movement. Rooted in a modern singer-songwriter style, the instrumentation creates a warm and steady backdrop for the story being told. Soft guitar or piano lines sit beneath subtle atmospheric layers, giving the song an open, spacious feel that allows the emotion to come through clearly without ever becoming overwhelming.

The lyrics focus on recovery from addiction, adding even more depth to the track. Antoni’s vocal delivery carries a sense of vulnerability and honesty, as if he’s working through the lingering weight of past struggles. There’s a bittersweet tone in his voice—reflecting the pain of what he’s been through, but also the cautious hope of moving forward. The pacing is unhurried, allowing each line to settle and providing space for the emotional gravity of the subject matter. Subtle harmonies and gentle rises in the arrangement highlight moments of reflection, strength, and uncertainty. The track ultimately feels like a quiet statement of resilience. It captures the complicated process of healing—acknowledging the darkness while still choosing to grow beyond it.

The lyrics focus on recovery from addiction, adding even more depth to the track. Antoni’s vocal delivery carries a sense of vulnerability and honesty, as if he’s working through the lingering weight of past struggles. There’s a bittersweet tone in his voice—reflecting the pain of what he’s been through, but also the cautious hope of moving forward. The pacing is unhurried, allowing each line to settle and providing space for the emotional gravity of the subject matter. Subtle harmonies and gentle rises in the arrangement highlight moments of reflection, strength, and uncertainty. The track ultimately feels like a quiet statement of resilience. It captures the complicated process of healing—acknowledging the darkness while still choosing to grow beyond it.

www.instagram.com/simonwalkermusic

Carol Hodge – Small Crumbs

ByDaniel PackhamCategoriesInMusic ReviewsPosted onOn

Carol not only plays in many other bands but tours solo with just her and her piano (a powerhouse duet). Carol was born with only seven fingers and yet defies all with her empowering music. Alongside her band, they write songs that tackle challenging topics like mental health. The Carol Hodge Band are a joyous and feisty Alternative Rock four piece (drums, bass, guitar, keys), who were recently described by Classic Rock magazine as “”combin(ing) fat, fuzzy guitar grooves with splashes of synths…clever proggy pop rock bursts and almost Alice In Chains-y shadows…eccentric and unpredictable, in a way that feels totally natural.”” They are confirmed for quite a few festivals in 2026, including: Bearded Theory, Rebellion Punk Festival, Ey Up Mi Duck and Nah Then.

Their song ‘Small Crumbs’ is about not accepting the crumbs of life and searching for the self-confidence to expect more. Thick, heavy bass opening sets the vibe for the track from the very first note. As well as this, the strong female vocals are empowering to the listeners and emphasise the theme of the track beautifully. The lyricism uses metaphors to inspire their listeners not to accept less than they are worth.

https://instagram.com/carolxhodge

The First Ones – Reverie

ByDaniel PackhamCategoriesInMusic ReviewsPosted onOn

The First Ones are made up of brothers Doug and Dan, along with their lifelong friend Will, who have been writing together for six years. As a band, they’re known for their blend of pacy metal, catchy riffs, and melodic harmonies, creating a sound that’s both intense and memorable. Their dark, prog-inspired energy has a way of drawing listeners in, leaving them mesmerised and always wanting more.

Reverie is an alternative rock track that explores the delicate tension between reality and illusion, capturing the feeling of drifting in and out of clarity as the mind wanders between what’s real and what’s imagined. The lyrics describe how it can be hard to escape your own mind at times, and how we sometimes need support from others to help us face those inner struggles. The result is a track that feels emotionally honest while still carrying the band’s signature power and atmosphere.

Find out more: https://www.instagram.com/thefirstonesband

Knuckle – Sick At The Fair

ByDaniel PackhamCategoriesInMusic ReviewsPosted onOn

Huddersfield-based rock band Knuckle are a perfect example of the kind of talent that thrives in West Yorkshire. Known for their raw energy and sharp sense of humour, they bring a refreshing edge to the local music scene. Their track “Sick at the Fair” is a punchy punk anthem that blends witty, comedic lyrics with tight, hard-hitting rock instrumentation. The song tells the story of a date at the fair gone hilariously wrong, capturing the awkwardness, chaos, and unpredictability of modern dating.

Through its vivid storytelling, the track paints a clear and relatable picture of what it feels like to navigate romance today, complete with miscommunication, unexpected mishaps, and the kind of embarrassing moments you can laugh about later. The driving guitars and upbeat tempo give the song a lively momentum, while the playful lyrics add a sense of novelty that sets Knuckle apart. By the time the chorus hits, you’re left both headbanging and grinning, fully caught up in the band’s unique mix of humour, honesty, and punk-rock charm.

Find out more here: https://www.instagram.com/weareknuckle/

Samh – Animal

ByDaniel PackhamCategoriesInMusic ReviewsPosted onOn

SAMH are a Huddersfield-based act founded by singer-songwriter Sam Hodgson. Their unique sound is characterised by “Organic lyrics with trance-like repetitive rhythms and psychedelic overtones,” described as feeling like a “lucid dream,” and drawing influences from artists like Pink Floyd and Radiohead. Samh has built a cult-like following through notable performances at festivals like the Edinburgh Fringe and Tramlines, while garnering radio support from BBC 6 and Radio X.

“Animal” by SAMH mixes folk, singer-songwriter, and psychedelic sounds to create a raw, energetic track. It’s driven by steady, repetitive guitar parts, while the rough, natural vocals make the song feel personal and honest. The melody is easy to follow and sticks with you, letting the message take all the attention. As the song goes on, the rhythms become stronger and more intense, giving it a lively energy. Overall, the musical style of “Animal” blends simple folk ideas with emotional vocals and powerful lyrics to create an engaging and impactful song. The theme of the song surrounds humanity and how self-obsession & materialism counteract the basics of humanity and human values.

Find out more here: https://www.instagram.com/samh.song

WRXL Afterparty at Amped

BySaving Grace MusicCategoriesInGigs, NewsPosted onOn

The Wilson’s Republic WRXL event, which celebrated a decade of fostering creative community with the theme of ‘Routes,’ culminated in an absolutely electrifying private afterparty at Amped in Huddersfield.

Seamlessly transitioning the day’s inspiration into a night of community and celebration, the party was curated by us, transforming the venue into a powerful showcase for local talent. Attendees were treated to a diverse and gripping line-up that kept the energy high well into the night. Highlights included the beautiful, honest songwriting of Good Good Blood, the alluring and soulful sounds of vocalist Hannah Rowe, and the complex, yet highly danceable, Psychedelic Rock fusion of Don Gonzo. The celebration reached its peak with Therealdemo, a staple of the West Yorkshire scene, spinning classic and new Funk, Soul, and Hip Hop that kept the floor moving.

Take a look at the Highlights from the event below;

More than just a concert, the afterparty was the perfect, vibrant finale—a powerful demonstration of the collective spirit of the Northern creative scene and a truly triumphant way to cap off Wilson’s Republic’s 10th-anniversary celebration.

Additionally take a look at the highlights from the day event at Bates Mill featuring six speakers from different creative disciplines, they delivered heard honest, inspiring and beautiful interpretations of the event theme ROUTES.

Missed WRXL? Don’t worry – we’ve got the soundtrack. A little gift from us to you.

If you couldn’t make it (or just want to relive the event), we’ve got an official WRXL playlist – featuring the incredible artists who brought the afterparty to life.

Plug in, press play and keep the WRXL energy going 🎧

The Kirklees Most Wanted project is being delivered by The Saving Grace Collective and is part funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund 
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