We Speak Music
Nottingham’s Finest: Commons Drops Debut EP ‘Clean Living’
Get ready to turn up the volume and hit repeat because Nottingham indie-rockers Commons have just unleashed their highly anticipated debut EP, ‘Clean Living’! Released on May 24th, this EP is packed with infectious energy, vibrant melodies, and a whole lot of rock ‘n’ roll spirit.
Hailed for their unique fusion of indie rock and electronic elements, Commons has been making waves in the Nottingham music scene and beyond. From packed-out shows to radio play across the UK, placements on Apple Music playlists, and glowing reviews from tastemakers, Commons is a band on the rise.
Drawing comparisons to the likes of Kasabian, Foals, and Bloc Party, Commons has crafted a sound that is both commercially accessible and refreshingly alternative. Seamlessly blending lush synth lines with tight guitar riffs, punchy drums, and earworm melodies, the band’s music is a sonic rollercoaster that leaves you craving more.
Speaking about the EP, the band shares: “Clean Living is an ode to our kaleidoscopic taste in music, with each song giving a flare of something exciting that catches your ears leaving you eager for more. There is a wide range of meaning behind each track in this, it’s not solely based on one event or feeling – it’s more focused on telling short stories and experiences.”
Already known for their electrifying live performances, including a sold-out show at Beat The Streets Festival, Commons has received praise from outlets like Earmilk, Ones To Watch, and Fame Magazine. And with upcoming live dates, including a headline show at Rough Trade Nottingham on June 8th, Commons is set to solidify their place as Nottingham’s finest musical export.
So, crank up the volume, hit play on ‘Clean Living’, and get ready to embark on a musical journey you won’t soon forget. Commons is here to rock your world, one electrifying riff at a time!
“Balancing Act” by Vinyl Floor is a real treat. It is the sixth record from brothers Daniel and Thomas Charlie Pedersen sounds like it was made for right now and how they blend the ’60s and ’70s with modern elements never feels forced.
The production is clear and thoughtful. Every string, every horn, every vintage keyboard has space to exist. “Puppet Laureate” opens strong with real energy, while “The Swan of Eileen Lake” catches you off guard with folk warmth. “Adelaide” might be the best track, built on a lovely piano line with vocals that cut through cleanly. No hiding behind effects here.
The title track closes things out with the reflection the album’s been working toward. The core idea of finding hope in a fractured world could tip into despair easily, but Vinyl Floor stays honest about it. They’re not offering false comfort, but they’re not drowning either.
Progressive rock this restrained is rare. The arrangements serve the songs instead of overshadowing them. If anything, some moments could use more breathing room, but that’s small in a record made by people who clearly care about what they’re saying.
This is for anyone who wants rock that actually wrestles with real ideas. It counts for something.
You can listen here.
