Alright people, we could very well have a new favourite on our hands here. Naturally, listen and come to your own conclusions, but if a Northern indie band with serious songwriting clout is in any way up our street, then Van Houten is for you. The Leeds quintet have unveiled the news that their debut album is set to appear on September 13th via Clue Records. With that news comes addictive single ‘Running Scared’. The song’s bouncing slacker-pop nature could almost be interpreted as an art of misdirection; a sonic act of putting on a brave face. In reality, ‘Running Scared’ deals with front man Louis Sadler’s crushing struggle with depression. The dream-pop and indie-rock alchemy of Van Houten’s sound acts as a backdrop to this all too common reality, in front of which, Sadler’s lyrics tap into the disconnect, dissatisfaction and ultimate sadness that comes with depression. The line, “And looking for that happy ending, / It seems like everyone’s got their own, / They watch me fallin’, / They watch me fall,” conveys the singer’s inner narrative as he sits in the passenger seat watch those walking about, living their perceived complete lives. However, this song’s intention isn’t to drag you down, but instead it provides catharsis for both the musicians and the listeners. Through bands like Van Houten, we can find comfort in solidarity. - Hannah Thacker