Liverpool four-piece Courting have just dropped new single ‘Flex’ (available here); their first release since the release of their genre-defining debut LP last September.
Expanding on the aforementioned album that saw them deconstructing songs rooted in indie-rock in order to playfully piece them back together whilst toying with new sounds, textures, and songwriting techniques, the new single ‘Flex’ sees the band take their thirst for creativity to a new level. A power pop banger at its roots, the track leans into vivacious riffing and upbeat drumming, alongside a euphonious and wistful brass section, and lightly-effected, hook-heavy vocals that reflect on social media and online relationships through a number of acts about feeling wanted and seen.
Commenting on the genesis and themes of the new single, frontman Sean Murphy-O’Neill, said “‘Flex’ is designed to be a theatrical performance, a short play. Our protagonist is wealthy, successful, and famous… but at what cost? Our protagonist misses their ex (after seeing their glow-up), wears Ricks, chainsmokes, sends thought-out emails about their wellbeing to people they should’ve replied to sooner, and has increased their screen time by 25%
In the thrilling conclusion, our protagonist does donuts in a closed car-park, in a 1967 mustang, with all of their friends. The event is livestreamed on twitch to be rewatched until the end of time.
‘Flex’ is as sincere as we can be. Sometimes the lines between real life and fiction get blurred here, but we’re nothing if not committed.”
Having cemented themselves as a must-see live act, Courting have also just come off of a UK tour as main support for Circa Waves. The band also toured “Guitar Music” extensively last Autumn as well as performing at multiple summer festivals including Reading & Leeds Festival, Wide Eyed Festival, Latitude, Truck Festival, Live At Leeds, Community Festival, and The Great Escape.
The band will play further dates and festivals this year including:
JULY
22 – Truck Festival
23 – Tramlines Festival
28 – Kendall Calling
30 – Y Not Festival
AUG
4 – Haldern Pop Festival
5 – Dorks Day Out, Signature Brewery
11 – 110 Above Day Out
27 – Victorious Festival
SEPT
8 – SMG Music Festival – Belgium
“Guitar Music” is out now, which you can order / stream here.
Photo credit: Charlie Barclay Harris
