45s of the week: Sugababes, Lime Garden, Poppy and more!

The tracks you need to hear this week, reviewed by Tyler Kelly

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Sugababes – ‘When The Rain Comes’

Almost ten years after their single ‘Flatline’, one of the most iconic groups of the early 00s have returned, and it feels like they’ve never left. A simplistic drumbeat allows their silky vocals and intricate harmonies to shine as they ponder the question of whether someone is their ride or die, or just along for the ride.

Poppy – ‘Motorbike’

Poppy returns with a dark pop anthem driven by its bassline and darkwave synths. ‘Motorbike’ is a sensual ode to female empowerment; to the moment when you’re not sure whether you want to be somebody or be with them. “Girl on a motorbike / no-one can confine her / epitome of freedom / I’m following behind her”, Poppy sings with soft vocals over a bold industrial beat.

Cherry Glazerr – ‘Sugar’

Blending grunge-esque guitar riffs with languorous vocals, Cherry Glazerr’s new single is an assault on the senses, and lulls you into a false sense of security, as the verses take you through the sweet lethargy of falling asleep whilst the chorus shakes you up with the panicky feeling of falling in a dream.

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The Staves – ‘You Held It All’

Following a two-year hiatus, and a reconfiguration which sees the trio of sisters now as a duo, The Staves return with the first single since their 2021 album, ‘Good Woman’. A shimmering slice of indie-folk, with its stomping drum beat and lilting melodies that build in fervor as the song progresses to a point of euphoria, as they sing about trying to find the words to express their truth.

Lime Garden – ‘Love Song’

Disco-inflected basslines dance over indie-rock guitar licks, and elements of electronica, on Lime Garden’s anti-love song. The lyrics simmer in that confusing headspace where you’re trying to get to grips with the niggling feelings in the back of your mind that sometimes bubble away right under the surface. The song, with its contrasting upbeat instrumental, is an act in learning how best to turn them into something lighter, almost loveable.

Listen to these and more new tracks on our BRAND NEW playlist