Photo by Liam Maxwell
Isla Rico recently released their single ‘Smell The Roses’, teeing up a new chapter for the five-piece with an alt-Britpop anthem that has a distinctive mix of warmth and heartfelt rawness. Sweeping the listener into its world of shimmering guitars, a punchy drum pulse and charming familiarity across the melodies.
There’s an unmistakable ‘90s spirit, but a definitive forward-looking attitude in the world of modern indie. It’s a gracious, hazy, dreamlike melancholy that, through all the bittersweet atmosphere, still brings the listener a bright optimism. The reflections are resolved, and the energy peaks at a point of passion.
The band add, “For us, ‘Smell The Roses’ is a new beginning as a band. We wanted to be authentic to ourselves lyrically and instrumentally. Back to our roots, plugging our guitars in and capturing how we sound live and sharing our message, no matter how sht the world can feel at times. Sometimes you’ve got to just find the joy where you can and smell the roses.”*
Isla Rico began in a Brighton university flat, going from a duo to a five-piece that has graced the stages of Y Not, Lazy Days, and The Great Escape, earning praise at every turn. The latest release is higher in its ambition and clearer in its vision. It offers something uplifting, without taking away the struggle of reality.
Listen here:
