New music from Beth Pilling And The Bootleggers

Hull-based quintet Beth Pilling And The Bootleggers have rapidly made their mark in the UK’s music scene, fusing rock, jazz and folk influences, to create a sound that’s as unique as it gets. Fronted by singer and guitarist Beth Pilling, the group features George Garnett on lead guitar and backing vocals, Aaron Green on keys, Tom Scanlon on bass and drummer Elliot Joesbury.

Beth’s journey to forming The Bootleggers came through connections made through Hull’s gig and university scene. Her collaboration with Aaron Green dates back to 2019, though they only began working together in 2022 while drummer Elliot Joesbury joined through the local music circuit and guitarist George Garnett joined via bassist Tom Scanlon, Beth’s partner. With George and Tom’s punk rock background lending to the band’s rock edge, Aaron’s textured chord work adds character to Beth’s delicate writing and meaningful lyricism.

Making their artistic entrance this month, their first EP, Bootleg Vol. 1, presented a collection of tracks designed to move listeners embarking on their own journeys of healing. They’ve been quick to win over fans and tastemakers alike, earning airplay on Radio X as well as headlining Humber Street Sesh 2024 while their momentum continues to build with an upcoming headlining gig at Hull’s iconic Adelphi.

Bringing us the perfect taste of their musical vision, their debut single “Spinning” is an anthem as powerful in its message as it is in its sound. The song addresses the pressing issue of spiking and societal attitudes towards women, framing a poignant tale of a young girl reclaiming her own power despite her challenging situation. Recorded live at Duality Studio at the University of Hull, “Spinning” pairs Beth’s commanding vocals with the band’s energetic instrumentation, resulting in an uptempo indie rock sound.

Brought in by lively acoustic guitar work, the arrangement shifts with bouncy rhythms, lightly gritty guitar tones and bright vocal leads, spinning instantly memorable melodic leads via soulful delivery. Reaching an infectious chorus brimming with storytelling lyrics and intricate guitar licks, it’s a spectacular display of the band’s original songwriting and performance panache.

With dashes of bluesy lead guitar work and slick ebb and flow, the breakdown provides a brief moment of calm before the track bursts into the finale, setting up an enthralling conclusion to this stellar jam. Laying down a sound that’s catchy and meaningful in equal measure, “Spinning” sees Beth Pilling and The Bootleggers make a sensational entrance on their breakout year, hinting at an exciting journey ahead for this thrilling new act.

Listen to Spinning below

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