Pit Pony

ABOUT:

'Cut Open' is a deeply personal track by Pit Pony, born from the band’s reflections on imposter syndrome and the emotional struggles of self-doubt. Described as a form of therapy, the song was written during a period of introspection, capturing those familiar bad days where the fear of being found out – of people seeing beyond the facade – takes over. The lyrics explore themes of vulnerability, questioning one’s purpose, and wondering if you're on the right path. Though not a constant feeling, the song represents a relatable human experience of grappling with inner insecurities.

Sonically, "Cut Open" blends bittersweet nostalgia with a 1950s-inspired, retro charm. Set against jangly chords and tremolo guitars, also featuring sweet violins in the chorus and delicate glockenspiel melodies that give it a soft, tender atmosphere. Tremolo vocals float in the background, adding a dreamy, almost wistful quality, making the track feel both intimate and universal.

The lyrics' emotional depth is balanced by a sense of catharsis, where the artist finds solace in creativity, ultimately letting go of the weight. The song draws inspiration from the novel Brighton Rock, particularly the idea of people being unchangeable at their core; front-woman Jackie adds “I don’t think that we can change but it’s an interesting argument”. 

Once again channelling the rawness of the North East coast, Pit Pony return with their second album Dead Stars. Set to release on 7 February 2025 via Clue Records / EMI North, the album sees the band meld a myriad of influences from 50s doo-wop to heavy rock while frontwoman Jackie Purver navigates the complexities of modern life. A broader and more ambitious, but yet wholly cohesive follow up to their debut album World To Me, Dead Stars promises to reveal infinitely finer details with each listen.

Fiercely honest, Jackie’s lyricism portrays an intense duality and a vulnerability that is instantly relatable. Turning inwards to explore notions of motherhood, imposter syndrome and getting older, while simultaneously outwards through commentary on the cost of living, polluted water, the constant sell on social media and the ‘off menu’ Starbucks coffee obsession.

With the band citing the recent influences of Blue Weekend and Skinty Fia alongside the likes of Can and the soundtracks of Ennio Moriconne, mastering engineer Christian Wright (Wolf Alice, Fontaines D.C., Pigs x7) proves the perfect fit with Chris McManus (Blank Studios) heading up recording & production. Sonically, Pit Pony remain loyal to their roots, noting the influence of regional titans Nadine Shah and The Futureheads and with the “ENGLISH ACCENT god damn it” reminder on PJ Harvey’s Uh Huh Her in mind, Jackie Purver stays true to her accent.

Dead Stars sees Pit Pony deliver an expanded but yet more balanced and personal conception of their craft. Garth Purver explains that the band were aiming for a more rounded and complete record “that showcased multiple sides to us but hung together as one piece of work rather than a collection of separate tracks.” While Andrew Jones mentions how the band “encouraged each other to pull on those strands and incorporate more of our personal taste in the sound”.