Hailing from Liverpool, RISE is a band that spent years forming their shared sonic vision before making their entrance last year. The four-piece have quickly established themselves as one of the UK’s most exciting new acts in the alternative rock pop sphere, bringing a sound that glides between melodic pop rock and atmospheric modern alternative rock. Their music shimmers with layered instrumentation and synth-driven vibes, while still carrying the energy and energy of classic rock, a winning formula that’s struck a chord with a growing fanbase around the world.
Fronted by bassist and lead vocalist Sam Kinley, also known for his solo work under the moniker stayMellow, RISE features the talents of Paul Kinley on keyboards and backing vocals, guitarist Brian Petch and drummer Alex Mahoney. Together, they bring together musicianship flair and songwriting talent with heartfelt emotion. Each member plays a role in shaping the band’s sonic identity, resulting in a sound that’s melodic, cinematic and emotionally charged.
Their 2024 debut EP, Memories and Possibilities, unveiled that sound in full colour, an impressive opening statement that combined slick production with instantly memorable writing. Following that success, the group carried their momentum into 2025 with “The Way You Make Me Feel” and “Dreams,” two tracks that expanded their sonic world even further.
Now, RISE returns with their latest single titled “Lost For Words,” a track built on a fusion of synth and guitar textures, the song delivers an emotional hit wrapped in infectious melody. It’s a breakup anthem with a twist, transforming heartbreak into empowerment to offer a message of hope and optimism. The lyrics revolve around the moment one person hears, “it’s over,” and instead of crumbling, chooses to move forward, presenting a soundtrack for determination and renewal, told through glossy guitar hooks and soaring vocals.
From the slide of bass guitar, the arrangement bursts to life with stabbing synth tones, crunchy guitar flickers and lively drums, casting a surge of sonic energy before slipping into a grooving verse where Sam Kinley’s vocal performance shines as intricate instrumentation dances around his voice. Swelling to a dazzling chorus of infectious hooks and uplifting energy, the track delivers an invigorating listening experience. Guitarist Brian Petch serves up some of his finest work to date, from exquisite details in the verses to electrifying 80s-inflected solos in the bridge and finale.
Co-written by Paul Kinley and recorded at Liverpool’s Whitewood Studios with production from Paul and Rob Whiteley, “Lost For Words” crafts an affecting and thoroughly engaging sound from start to finish. With their new single, RISE continue their thrilling musical adventure as a must watch band with a truly compelling sound.
We caught up with RISE to find out more about their musical journey so far, their new single “Lost For Words” and what they’ve got lined up for the future. Check out our interview with RISE below.
Hey guys, how’s things?
Things are going really well, thanks
How did you get together as a band?
We formed RISE as school friends (many, many years ago)
Which artists do you draw most inspiration from?
Quite mixed…Classic rock bands such as Thin Lizzy, Asia, Rush, Genesis, but also creative artists such as Peter Gabriel and Public Service Broadcasting
How else do you find inspiration for your music?
From life; we try to bring positive energy wherever we can; we have had knocks along the way, but do try to make things work positively.
What’s been your highlight of 2025?
Not one single thing I would guess, lots of smaller “wins” along the way
What do you love about the Liverpool music scene?
Very creative and diverse (very, very diverse)
What would you say is the perfect setting for listeners to enjoy your sound?
Anywhere, as long as you enjoy yourself
How has your own style and sound evolved since you started out?
Ha! Most would say it hasn’t…We don’t look to “evolve” our sound, we play what seems right for us; I suppose we are a bit selfish that way
Who would be your dream artist to collaborate with?
Asia or Rush for me (the rest of the guys may differ)
How did you find making your new single “Lost For Words”?
It’s been kicking around for a while and it was pushed as an idea by Alex our drummer…blame him for getting into the light!! lol
What message did you want to get across with this release?
Stay positive whenever possible
What artist have you been listening to most recently?
Public Service Broadcasting and Ghost for me, I don’t know about the rest of the guys
What’s the main thing you want people to get out of listening to your music?
Try to get the positives out of life…it really is too short to dwell on negative situations and negative people
What’s been your favourite live performance so far?
We had a residency in Liverpool many years ago in an Irish Bar called Flanagan’s Apple….wild times to say the least!!
Who would be 3 artists to headline your dream festival?
And where would it be? Rush, Asia and Thin Lizzy (classic 70’s line up); don’t mind on the location
Do you have any advice for a new artist wanting to follow your footsteps?
Keep going and don’t let the negative people in the world talk you down
Finally, what do you have lined up next?
More studio time in January 2026 and two more songs to release over the coming weeks/months
Listen to Lost For Words below
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