UK-based trio Arcade Fortress have been making a significant impression in the alternative rock world with a sound built on power, purpose and passion. Fronted by singer-songwriter Gavin Connolly alongside guitarist Richard Fox and drummer Matt Stubbs, the band stitch sharp-edged guitar energy into emotive storytelling, blending British rock tradition and modern indie intensity. From their shared love for guitar-driven music, they’ve become an unstoppable act both in the studio and on stage over the last ten years.
Arcade Fortress have long been a staple of London’s live circuit, earning a reputation for performances that blend energy with compelling presence. They’ve lit up venues including The Water Rats, The Dublin Castle, The Fiddler’s Elbow, The Good Ship and The Sebright Arms as well as reaching the finals of the Hard Rock Rising competition at Hard Rock Cafe London in 2015.
Their studio work has been equally impressive, fusing muscular instrumentation with lyrical impact; their 2022 album Younique delivered four BBC Music Introducing-aired tracks that showcased the band’s knack for crafting songs that shine both emotionally and sonically. With that record, they firmly planted themselves on the map of must watch bands in the UK music sphere.
Now, following a series of impressive singles, including an epic cover of Tina Turner’s hit “Simply The Best,” the trio return with their latest release titled “Treadstone,” a track that captures Arcade Fortress at their most cinematic. Taking inspiration from the Jason Bourne universe, the song is a heart-pounding rush of adrenaline, presenting a sonic portrayal of pursuit, pressure and perseverance. Brought in by Gavin’s rich vocal leads which roll above splashing drums and lively guitar lines, an instant energy takes hold.
Building towards an anthemic chorus of infectious melodic hooks and surging instrumental energy, the track lays down an exhilarating modern rock experience. With overlapping backing vocals and charging arrangement, the song floats through a passage of dreamy, prog-tinged aesthetic where fluttering guitar tones and smooth vocals form a mesmeric moment before the track takes flight with stomping half-time rhythms and soaring lead guitar, resulting in a thrilling listening experience from start to finish.
It’s a superb display of the band’s melodic songwriting and highly original sound, showcasing their knack for framing cinematic concepts in exciting musical moments. As they continue to shine on their prolific creative streak throughout 2025, we can’t wait to see what this incredible band has lined up next on their captivating musical voyage.
Listen to Treadstone below
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