Returning with their first release this year, Ugly share the anthemic track, ‘Next To Die’. It’s a recognisable song if you’ve ever seen them live, and its release may mark the beginning of a new chapter as they detail the coming together of a new album.
Speaking on the single, the band reflect: “’Next To Die’ was the obvious choice for Ugly’s return, a year after the release of our EP and a year of intense gigging – it’s a song we’ve been playing relentlessly for a while now. It is a story of compromise and trying your hardest to make something work even if it’s ultimately doomed. It feels rejuvenating and transitional – emotionally and also sonically for the band moving forward. Because of this we wanted it separate from the album which we’re currently writing.”
‘Next To Die’ feels like a highpoint for Ugly to pivot on, with its seriously accomplished vocal harmonies (as is their superpower), coupled with beautifully textured percussion and excellent acoustic guitar playing. Their debut EP ‘Twice Around The Sun’ has been on my heavy rotation, and selfishly, I wouldn’t want to witness too much of a sonic departure. The band have already grasped an incredibly accomplished and definitive sound – a rare achievement for a band with such a small discography.
Ugly will be embarking on a tour next month, including a headline show at YES in Manchester on the 7th May, Village Underground in London on the 8th May, and Brudenell Social Club on the 9th May. You can also see them at Wide Awake towards the end of May. Trust me, you won’t want to miss them.
Photo by Seren Carys
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