Speedial

(18th March) London four-piece Speedial blend melodic post-rock, shoegaze, math rock, jazz fusion and noise-rock into a captivating and distinctive sound, reminiscent of everything from Deerhoof and Big Thief to Radiohead, Faraquet and the atmospheric textures of David Bowie's Blackstar. 

Dual vocalists Serena and Millie weave intricate harmonies over complex instrumental landscapes, with saxophonist Monarch and drummer Joe's technical ability adding a crucial layer of depth. Produced by Joseph Futak (Tapir!, lilo), new single 'Tourist' - released today - offers a taste of this interplay, with Serena noting the song's lyrics' depiction of "an exaggerated 'evil' version of myself."

Speaking more on new single 'Tourist', vocalist Serena said:

"When I'm feeling guilty about something I tend to get quite dramatic and it's easy to spiral into thinking one bad decision makes people think the worst of you. It was cathartic in a way to write all of that negativity down and realise that that isn't really how I am. I wanted the lyrics to be quite bleak and matter of fact. I usually get caught up with flowery language and making my lyrics kind of opaque and hard to decipher but I didn’t want to hide behind that for this song."

A collective of musicians who grew up playing together, Speedial's shared history is evident in their tight-knit sound. Part of London's thriving alternative scene, the band are regulars at The Windmill, The George Tavern, and The Shacklewell Arms, recently sharing stages with acts like Picture Parlour, Camera Picture (black midi), Ugly (UK), Dog Race, The Orchestra (For Now), Deep Tan, Automotion, amongst others.

Speedial's songwriting is a meticulous process of evolution. Songs are born in rehearsal rooms, then road-tested and refined live, allowing the band to organically discover what truly resonates. Their intricate arrangements, with precise tempo, meter, and dynamic shifts, aren't built on improvisation, but careful planning and structure.

"Much of our lyricism explores themes of self perception/villainy, yearning and mental struggles, as well as contrasting ideas such as retaliation/acceptance and isolation/suffocation. We wanted these themes to complement the complexity and atmospheric density of the instrumentals we make," the band add.

For Speedial, their initial sparks of inspiration are collaboratively moulded and reshaped, sometimes morphing entirely from their original form as Serena and Millie further refine guitar parts and lyrics in separate sessions. This deliberate, iterative approach allows Speedial's songs to breathe and develop into something truly special.

Speedial's new single 'Tourist' is out now, released 18th March. The band play shows in London and Brighton over the coming months.

Speedial are: Serena Garrod (Guitar, Vocals), Millie Kirby (Bass, Vocals), Joe William Killick (Drums), Monarch Vavrechka (Saxophone)