Oswald Slain are back after their debut single– more honest, more raw and more ‘UGLY’ than ever

Just three months after their debut single ‘Happiness Is Overrated’ the rock band based in Bristol released another hit on 21st of February. Starting with a high-pitched beeping sound by Rogers playing synths that gets interrupted by Williams’ drums setting in, immediately starting with the soulful voice of Fitzgerald. The groovy drums paired with the bass and drums give the song its funky and vibrant 70’s energy. Now throw in the gripping voice of the singer Fitzgerald and you’ve got yourself a great song.

Oswald Slain’s music is for fans of The Black Keys, The Strokes and anyone who likes an upbeat groovy sound, with lyrics that are easy to remember and go a bit deeper than expected, especially when you know the background story for the song. Vocalist and lyricist Fitzgerald explains that the inspiration came from the film Boogie Nights and the dark things that “went on behind the glitz and glamour of the 70’s adult entertainment industry”. It’s a song about the fact, that the ugly and unflattering are part of everyone’s life, that even when only showing their best side, the true self is what makes people who they are. When listening to the lyrics what stands out are parts like “It’s a masquerade / Of different shades / If beauty fades / Then I am winning” paired with the groovy sound of the band. The overall energetic vibe of the song combined with the rhythmic beat of the drums and honest lyrics goes straight into the body, leaving you nodding your head and tapping your feet.

Oswald Slain stay true to their humorous songwriting, paired with the swag and grit of old retro rock records. Just like their debut single, ‘UGLY’ was also mastered by Jason Mitchell at Loud Mastering (PJ Harvey, XTC, Big Special) and mixed in their DIY home studio, giving it this special touch that makes Oswald Slain’s music unique. With their debut EP Kiss Me On The Mouth due to release in April, we can surely be excited for what’s to come.

Check out ‘UGLY’ and Oswald Slain’s newly released ‘Sean Paul’ down below

Be sure to catch Oswald Slain on their upcoming tour:

April 17th 2025 – Trillians, Newcastle

April 18th 2025 – The Indiependent, Scunthorpe

April 19th 2025 – The Snug, Atherton

April 25th 2025 – 229 The Venue, London

April 26th 2025 – Rossi Bar, Brighton

2nd May 2025 – Golden Lion, Bristol

 

Written by: Kathrin Waschke