Following the acclaim garnered by their debut single “Flags” and their new album “Elephants at the Airport,” Brighton-based trio No See Ums have released their latest single, “Weekend.” This track diverges from the innuendo-laden punk energy of “Flags” and offers a more introspective and autobiographical glimpse into the band’s experiences and emotions. “Weekend” delves into themes of apathy, dejection, and disconnection, resonating deeply with listeners who grapple with similar feelings in today’s world.
Frontman Phil Johnstone captures the essence of “Weekend” by describing it as a song that taps into feelings of hopelessness while maintaining a playful surface. He explains, “I think many people will be able to understand feeling down on your luck and detached from humanity. We’re tapping into that sense of hopelessness that people feel but kind of doing it playfully, because on the surface it’s almost a jolly-sounding song.” This juxtaposition between the upbeat musicality and the melancholic lyrics creates a compelling and relatable narrative.
While “Flags” was a riff-soaked punk romp dripping with sarcasm, “Weekend” retains the band’s roots in punk and garage rock but incorporates elements of post-punk and indie rock. This musical evolution showcases the band’s ability to blend genres and create a sound that is both nostalgic and fresh. The track’s infectious chorus, “I’m starting to hate everything again,” perfectly encapsulates the disenfranchisement many feel in 2024.
“Weekend” stands out for its deeply relatable lyrics. The song explores the universal feelings of apathy and disconnection, making it an “every-person” anthem. The autobiographical nature of the lyrics allows listeners to connect with the band on a personal level, as they navigate the complexities of modern life. This relatability is a significant factor in the band’s growing appeal and success.
No See Ums formed during the COVID-19 pandemic, drawing influence from a diverse array of musical genres. The band consists of Phil Johnstone, a seminal guitarist and lyricist known for his work with the psych-prog-rock band The Qwarks; Jax Burley on bass, formerly of the queer punk band Daffodildos; and Nick Flowers on drums, also from The Qwarks. This eclectic lineup brings a wealth of experience and a unique blend of influences to their music.
Notably, No See Ums are signed to Not Saints, the UK’s only record label dedicated to working with musicians in recovery from addiction. This partnership allows the band to create music in a supportive environment, free from the conventional music scene’s potential dangers. Not Saints aims to help artists rediscover their creativity and continue their musical journeys while maintaining their recovery.
“Weekend” is a significant step forward for No See Ums as they continue to build their audience. The song’s success is indicative of the band’s ability to produce relevant and engaging music that resonates with a wide range of listeners. With four more songs planned for release in 2024 and live gigs on the horizon, No See Ums are poised to make a substantial impact on the music scene.
No See Ums’ “Weekend” is a standout track that combines playful melodies with poignant lyrics, capturing the essence of modern disconnection and malaise. As the band continues to evolve and reach new audiences, their ability to create music that is both reflective and energizing sets them apart. “Weekend” is available now on all major streaming platforms, and the band’s new album “Elephants at the Airport” is also out, offering fans a comprehensive look at No See Ums’ musical prowess and thematic depth.
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