Coming out of Newcastle, newcomers Montelimar arrive with a sound that both embraces the traditions of indie rock and subtly reshapes it in their own way. Formed late last year by songwriter and vocalist Aeron Corbett alongside guitarist Tim Cox, the four-piece have been quick to mark themselves as one of the North East’s most exciting new acts on the rise. Blending psychedelic textures, shimmering melodies and classic songwriting appeal, their music forms in the overlap between timeless British indie and contemporary alternative rock, delivering songs that feel accessible while offering something that’s entirely their own.
Aeron and Tim initially connected through a shared fascination with shoegaze and psychedelic music, exploring hazy textures and immersive atmospheres before gradually finding themselves drawn toward the elegance of classic British songwriting. As Montelimar, their output ultimately revolves around an appreciation for melody; their songs are built around jangling twelve-string guitars, bright vocal harmonies and expansive arrangements that pull listeners into textured soundscapes while keeping sight of the emotional context carried by the songwriting itself.
Influences from artists including The La’s, Teenage Fanclub, The Beatles, Radiohead and Real Estate can certainly be felt and the band filter those inspirations through their own unique musical lens. Their rise has already made a noticeable impression across Newcastle’s independent music scene. Energetic live performances have built momentum, resulting in a sold-out debut hometown headline show at The Central in Gateshead. Further recognition followed with a support slot alongside The Hanging Stars at Newcastle’s respected Cluny venue, signalling that Montelimar’s reputation is beginning to spread beyond local word of mouth.

Now the quartet officially introduce themselves with their debut single titled “Rainbows,” a release that emphatically maps out both their musical ambition and emotional identity. Written by Aeron before developing collaboratively during rehearsals, “Rainbows” captures the importance of collective musicianship within Montelimar’s creative process. Recorded with producer John Martindale at Blank Studios in Newcastle, the track distils the chemistry, movement and subtle unpredictability that arises when a band creates music collectively.
Gently drifting into focus with soft synth textures, a dreamy atmosphere is forged by the twang of sparse guitar notes while the soft patter of drums builds up the song’s energy. Jumping into a bouncy indie rock scene, bright vocal leads glide in as the guitars take on a subtle grittiness and pulsing basslines add to the grooving forward motion. Rolling above the energising arrangement, the vocals spin memorable melodic leads before the track progresses with shifting rhythms and the sweep of flangey guitar tones which inject a mellow psych-tinged aesthetic.
Propelled by lively drums, bright guitar layers and compelling vocal performance, with “Rainbows,” Montelimar serves up an incredible showcase of their songwriting flair and performance talent. “Rainbows” is only the opening chapter, with further singles already written and plans steadily building toward a debut EP, the band clearly view this release as the beginning of a much larger artistic adventure. Having made their official artistic entrance in spectacular fashion, we can’t wait to see what else this exciting band has in store on what’s sure to be their breakout year.
Listen to Rainbows below
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