The long-awaited album from Leeds riot grrrls Lunar Sounds is out today!
Contrary to many other albums, Lunar Sounds did not make ‘Out The Dark’ in only one studio in a day or even in a week. Instead, they recorded the twelve LP tracks in different locations over several years. Their song ‘Reputation‘ is five years old, others, like the title track ‘Out The Dark‘, are from 2024. The album is the culmination of Lunar Sounds’ punk-infused work to date, and shows why they’ve been such a mainstay of the UK northern music scene since 2018.
The trio are celebrating the album launch with a headline show at 33 Oldham Street in Manchester’s Northern Quarter on January 18th. Support comes from scuzzy guitar band ISMS and punk duo Arms & Hearts.
Lunar Sounds are: Chesca Henderson-Cox, guitar and vocals; Anna Reed, drums and guitar; and Caris Shekel, guitar. Remarkably, they have no bass guitar (like the Cramps during most of their existence).
Sam Cook – known for his work with Ducking Punches, Hell’s Ditch, Kidda, and Arms and Hearts – produced ‘Out The Dark‘, showcasing the tracks at their best.
The lead single – ‘Better Than This‘ – got acclaim from Bread Records who noted; “It sounds fantastic, and with personal, impactful lyricism, it’s set them up as ones to watch for the year.” The lyrics are about the frustration and helplessness of watching a friend waste their time and potential. It’s about recognising your own value and not settling for less.
Their song ‘Rom-Coms Are Trash‘ makes mincemeat of corporate manufactured ideologies about love, by anti-wedding cake violence in their video; a bit similar intention to the Crass song ‘Our Wedding‘,
Singer Chesca says “We started this band when I was 22, and as I approach 30 next year, it feels surreal to look back on how far we’ve come. ‘Out The Dark‘ is a personal reflection of the growth and transformation I’ve experienced over the past decade.”
Drummer and guitarist Anna said “It’s been a long time in the making and it feels good to have something to show for all the graft we’ve put in over the years. We recorded the album DIY, wherever and whenever we could. Sam absolutely smashed the mix, the tracks keep their individual character while still following the theme of the album.”
Lunar Sounds have consistently explored themes of self-worth and societal expectations in their music, delivering their message with a raw, defiant attitude that strikes a chord with listeners. Their sound has drawn favorable comparisons to legendary bands like Sleater-Kinney, The Runaways, and The Au Pairs.
Critics have praised the band for their compelling songwriting and dynamic live performances. They’ve shared the stage with notable acts such as Big Joanie, Venus Grrrls, and Witch Fever, solidifying their reputation as one of the most exciting bands in the punk scene. Another reminder that punk is far from dead! This band deserves to become more widely known.
Out TODAY 17th January 2025 on all major streaming platforms!
- Better Than This
- Modern Art
- The Getaway
- Craving Dale
- Black Sheep
- Out The Dark
- Cabin Fever
- Rom-Coms Are Trash
- Waiting Game
- Reputation
- DEZ
- Consumed
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In 1978 Herman co-founded Dutch Rock Against Racism and was a founder of Pin punkzine. He’s vocals/saxophone for Cheap ‘n’ Nasty and in 2021 co-founded the Punk Scholars Network, Netherlands.
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