New Releases

Belfast’s Problem Patterns Celebrate Queer Joy On New Single 

By Staff Contributor
PROBLEM PATTERNS

Problem Patterns drop empowering single 'Letter of Resignation' via new label home Alcopop! Records

Belfast-based DIY feminist queerpunk quartet PROBLEM PATTERNS are proud to return with their new single ‘Letter of Resignation’, set for release on 7th June 2023 via new label home Alcopop! Records.

Earlier this year, the band announced that they will be releasing their debut album later in 2023, which they can now reveal will be titled Blouse Club, with further details still TBA.

Commenting on the new track, which celebrates queer joy in the face of discrimination against the LGBTQ+ community, guitarist Beverley Boal says: “‘Letter of Resignation’ is for anyone who has left a job, space or situation because people there were judgemental of or discriminated against them or others for being different, and they stood up for who they believe in.”

“For me, I grew up hearing the phrase ‘hate the sin, love the sinner’ in churches (always in the same context, as if being gay was the ultimate sin) and it still feels like an attack when I hear the preachers in the street.  Genuine love does not force us to become what we are not.  Genuine love extends beyond those who look, act and think like yourself.  Genuine love doesn’t inspire violence.  Two thirds of queer people have experienced violence or abuse due to their sexual orientation or gender identity.  More than half of Northern Irish queer youth say they are not fully accepted by their family.”

“Mental health struggles including self-harm are far more prevalent in the LGBTQ+ community.  Those perpetuating ‘traditional”’ views have a lot to answer for.  And, after so many sexual abuse scandals in the church, it seems like they would be better off trying to keep themselves right.”

The official video for the single was shot and edited by Brendy of Post Carpentry, in Holywood, just outside Belfast, and is a celebration of pride.

“Brendy also did our ‘Day & Age’ and ‘Y.A.W’ music videos,” says Boal of the visuals. “He always does an amazing job of capturing our fun chaotic energy. Fuelled by Nutmeg’s vegan café and baffled by the amount of churches on the main street, we got ice cream at the beach even though it was a bitter cold Sunday.”

Problem Patters Photo by Carrie Davenport
Problem Patters Photo by Carrie Davenport

“In the face of hatred, we stand for queer joy.  I think that’s the duality of our band and this music video.  On one hand, we’re protesting the powers that want to tear us down, but on the other hand, we’re celebrating and proud of who we are and what we believe in.  And you can tell we mean business when we’re in our suits, even if we’re having a dance at the seaside. We hope you enjoy it!”

Fresh from a duo of support slots with Kathleen Hanna of Bikini Kill’s iconic electro rock trio Le Tigre earlier this week after being tipped as her favourite new band, the quartet are also delighted to announce a London headline date at The Sebright Arms for 17th November 2023, with a run of festival appearances booked for the summer

Problem Patters Photo by Carrie Davenport

Main Photo Credit: CARRIE DAVENPORT

05.06.23 – Manchester, Albert Hall (w/ Le Tigre)
06.06.23 – Glasgow, Barrowlands (w/ Le Tigre)
15.07.23 – Berlin, My People Fest (w/ FAIM, Dying For It)
22.07.23 – Liverpool, Crapfest (w/ Crapsons, Piss Kitti)
19.08.23 – Glasgow, Core Festival
26.08.23 – Kettering, Greenbelt Festival
17.11.23 – London, Sebright Arms

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