Brighton indie-punk trio POUCH are back with 'Girl On The Phone', the first taste of a new era for the band and a track that sees them turn up the volume without losing their knack for a killer hook.
Produced by Gareth Nuttall, known for his work with The K’s, The Lottery Winners and Frank Turner, the new single pushes POUCH towards a heavier, more expansive sound. Distorted guitars and pounding drums give the track a grittier edge, while James Neighbour's laid-back vocals keep one foot firmly in the world of British indie.
Lyrically, 'Girl On The Phone' centres on the awkwardness of attraction and crossed wires, following two people who are clearly drawn to each other but caught up in their own assumptions. The result is a song that feels as restless and frustrated as its subject matter.
The single also marks a noticeable shift for the Brighton trio, who cite Nirvana's Nevermind as a key influence on the track while retaining the melodic songwriting and attitude that have shaped their previous releases.
POUCH have spent the last few years making their mark on Brighton's live circuit, with appearances at Y Not? Festival and The Great Escape, alongside shows at O2 Academy 2 Islington and support slots with The Dream Machine, The Skinner Brothers and The Kairos.
With 'Girl On The Phone', POUCH look set to take that momentum into something louder, heavier and more ambitious.
'Girl On The Phone' is out now, stream in the player below.
