Following our look at five excellent new tracks back in January, we’re coming out of February with five more. There have been so many great releases this month, but here are some favourites from across the UK and Ireland. We have some amazing tracks below from indie pop, shoegaze and alt rock.
Sonne – “Family Tree“
Earlier this month, we saw the second single release from Southampton-based band Sonne. Following the release of “Bear Trap” back in October, their second single, “Family Tree”, was highly anticipated. With its catchy chorus and meaningful lyrics, it has not disappointed. This time the band have gone for a shorter alt-rock feel compared to their first release. “Family Tree” has a driving rhythm section and impressive backing vocals, and with an excellent mix, it’s clear that Sonne are here to impress. The band have a series of live shows in 2026, and we can’t wait to hear more from them.
Charcoal Greys – “Just Because”
Formed in County Tipperary in 2024, Charcoal Greys are making waves on the Irish live scene. Following the same themes of their recent single, “Muddy Shoes”, this track has a more direct and somewhat emotional edge to its sound. The Cranberries-esque vocals and guitar riff really do complete this track. It’s clear that Charcoal Greys are inspired by 90s and 2000s alt-rock, but this doesn’t take anything away from their music, and the band has established their own unique sound. “Just Because” really does strike home with its emotional lyrics, and it’s exciting to see what comes next from Charcoal Greys this year.
MarQ – “What You Want”
marQ’s most recent single explores an experimental approach within the dream pop genre. His latest release, “What You Want”, features an analogue aesthetic and an ethereal sound characterised by a dreamy quality. Departing from his debut album, Andy Goodwin is developing a new musical direction and announcing an exciting new phase in his career. The shoegaze influence is expected to be prominent, with three upcoming singles sharing this distinctive style. There is certainly ample new music to look forward to.
Ladylike – “Fresh Linen”
Brighton-based post-rock band Ladylike continue to impress with their latest single, “Fresh Linen”. Acting as the centrepiece for their upcoming debut EP, the track is a stunning blend of post-rock and shoegaze. Lyrically, it’s soft and hard-hitting, and the switch between quiet poetic lyrics and distorted shoegaze-inspired riffs is perfect. It’s clear the band have come together and made something special. With the full EP due to release in March and a tour to accompany it, Ladylike are not to be missed.
Andy Goodwin – “Sulking”
Andy Goodwin is an emerging artist based in Manchester, having already released his second single of the year, titled “Sulking”. Over recent years, Goodwin has explored a range of styles within his music, from indie Britpop to more alternative sounds. His latest single features introspective lyrics that recount a recent breakup, reflecting on past experiences and associated emotions. Following his previous single, “Answerphone”, it is evident that his music continues to convey genuine vulnerability and emotional honesty, indicating a development in his artistic direction.
Words: Alfie Mallett & Izzy Stanford
The Noise Exchange 
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