HOMEGROWN is the brand new EP from Manchester-based indie band Florentenes. The four-song release is a nostalgic punch in the face, rough around the edges, but its high-energy guitar-heavy sound is rare in the modern era. It’s cheeky northern indie rock reminiscent of the era that brought us bands such as The Arctic Monkeys, The Enemy and Little Man Tate.
“Miss Understands” kicks the EP off at full throttle. Lead vocalist and songwriter William Smith barrels through the verses with breathless charm over punchy drums, before a catchy, yet simple chorus of “oh’s” crashes in. It’s a raw and raucous opener that sets the tone perfectly.
“What It Takes” offers a more reflective moment. Slowing the pace, it gives Smith space to shine vocally, showing a more considered side of the band. The track builds steadily before erupting into a nostalgic, full-bodied guitar solo over thunderous drums
Track three, “Fuel for the Flame,” throws us right back into the fast lane. It wastes no time, jumping straight into a rollicking vocal and rhythmic bounce. The lyric “I don’t know you, but I like you” lands with effortless swagger, while lead guitarist Luke Holding’s solo adds a standout moment that you can’t help thinking will dazzle on the live stage.
Closing track “The Gun” is the most musically compelling of the four. Driven by a tight indie rock beat, grungy rhythm guitars and lead guitars and bass that play off each other are woven together with gritty, emotive vocals from Smith. It’s a track that pulls all of Florentenes’ strengths into one.
Across its 13 minutes, HOMEGROWN delivers an engaging, high-octane listen. Each song has its own distinct identity, yet all are unmistakably Florentenes. The real highlights come in the instrumental breakdowns, where Holding’s guitar solos soar above the band’s frenetic energy. It’s indie rock the way it should be — urgent, fun, and best experienced loud. An exciting release from a band which we could easily rise up festival posters in the coming years.