By Julia Prigmore (@JuliaPrigmore)
Albeit fresh on the music scene and therefore with a slightly limited back catalogue, a skillful fusion of soul, rock, funk and hip-hop gives North London newcomers Hot Under Collar an already accomplished and distinctive sound that’s caught our attention.
Having formed in 2012, the aspiring quartet are united by a mutual love of music and performing, and after a number of triumphant gigs; they’ve already conquered some of London’s most popular venues such as Camden’s Barfly, The Garage, O2 Academy Islington and The Borderline; they’re not stopping there. New single ‘So Cold’ has just seen release, a cleverly engineered concoction of subtle urban beats from Herman Kaifuca, blended with Denzel Clarkson’s bluesy bass guitar and Christopher Lambrou’s funky lead guitar riffs, brought together by frontman Josh Ali’s raspy vocals, reminiscent of the Arctic Monkey’s current suave soundscape.
Following previous singles ‘Summer Rain’ and ‘Headspace’, which perfectly showcase their characteristic hip-hop and funk undertones, these four friends from the suburbs seem to have much more to offer the world of music as they continue to rise. So keep at least one eye on Hot Under Collar as perhaps we can expect an exciting studio album to surface later this year.
Hear their latest single here.