IINAG offers a curated selection of sounds to enhance your weekend.
CMAT – Running/Planning
‘Running/Planning’ is a mesmerising introduction to CMAT’s upcoming third album, ‘EURO-COUNTRY, ’ out 29th August. It develops from a calm introduction into an intense and emotive piece, with the repetitive chorus “I keep on running / planning, running / planning” becoming more fractured and frantic, a nod to a woman’s societal pressure to always be thinking about the next step in life. Once again, we’re captivated by CMAT’s vocals, songwriting and unique energy, this is a special start to album number 3. – Henry Dunn
Self Esteem – If Not Now, It’s Soon
“If Not Now, It’s Soon” showcases a dynamic sound that merges vibrant pop with intricate electronica, reflecting Self Esteem’s artistic growth ahead of her upcoming album, A Complicated Woman. The track thoughtfully explores her rise to fame, addressing past indulgences and personal growth. With its lush sonic backdrop, the lyrics resonate as she questions, “You wonder who it was who made the choices in that town?” Its uplifting chorus, highlighted by the hopeful line of “You’re the sum of all of these odds,” inspires resilience. Julie Hesmondhalgh also features – her powerful spoken-word segment, adding another layer of emotional depth, a testament to Self Esteem’s innovation and raw vulnerability. – Katie Macbeth
Black Country, New Road – For the Cold Country
Eclectic sextet collective Black Country, New Road champion an expansive discography that boasts triumphant cuts and softer melodies that make for a delightfully chaotic listen. Marking their third single release of the year, their latest effort, “For The Cold Country,” finds its home in dynamic instrumentation and is the first track to feature May Kershaw on lead vocals. Rich and soft, “For The Cold Country”’s soaring soundscape perfectly complements Kershaw’s lush and impressive tessitora. – Lana Williams
Model/Actriz – Doves
Boston-born and Brooklyn-bred four-piece Model/Actriz return this week with their hypnotic single – ‘Doves’. Acting as the second single from their upcoming sophomore full-length release, Pirouette, ‘Doves’ sticks to the band’s noisy, post-punk, and rocky foundations whilst incorporating experimental electronic effects. The track sees Model/Actriz at perhaps their most outrageous; ‘Doves’ is haunting in the most beautiful form. Four minutes of chilling noise, yet you can guarantee you won’t want to turn it off. ‘Doves’ sees Model/Actriz eerier and weirder than ever, yet at their most addictive. Almost scary yet toe-tap inducing, horror-film vocals yet awkwardly calming. Click play and immerse yourself in the absurdity of it. – Tyler Wright
Goddess ft Ex:Re – Shadows
Goddess is a new collaborative project curated and led by Fay Milton, drummer for Savages. The lead single, ‘Shadows,’ features vocals from Ex:Re, formerly of Daughter. With heavy drums and ethereal keys, it’s brought to life by Ex:Re’s unique voice and the hard-hitting raw lyrics, “Are you grief, are you coming for me?”. It sets us up for the new album, which will feature artists such as Bess Atwell and Delilah Holliday, and aims to “honour the deep sisterhood that forms when female and non-binary musicians collaborate”, a brilliant opening track from an exciting and important project. – Henry Dunn
Ain’t – Pirouette
Ain’t’s ‘Pirouette’ is a vibrant reinterpretation of 90s alt-rock, its melodic core radiating with springtime energy. The single excels in its ability to modernise familiar tropes, crafting a sound that’s both nostalgic and fresh. While perfectly suited for sunny days, the production retains a deliberate rawness, a torn and tattered DIY aesthetic that adds character. This choice prevents the track from sounding overly polished, instead imbuing it with a genuine, lived-in feel. The result is a compelling blend of catchy melodies and unrefined charm, making ‘Pirouette’ a standout release this week. – Lauren Morton
Follow our Spotity Playlist for the best indie tracks
Ain't, Black Country New Road, CMAT, Ex:Re, Goddess, Model/Actriz, Self Esteem
