I want the whole world to know about Jopy, whose Planet Zombie EP (released 2024) is one of the best records I have ever heard. And now we have ‘(Pushing) Roses’ by Birmingham-based Rooted, who mix ‘high glam with camp zombie fun’. Who said zombie fun should only be had in October? Not me.
Rooted source their T-shirts from charity shops and their influences from the late 90s and early 2000s. This fact alone demands your respect and dedicated ears. If you pine for the glory days of Ash, Feeder, and My Vitriol, then pine no further. Rooted’s new single is a tree-mendous return to those Nokia times.
When frontwoman Lily belts out the chorus lyrics “When it all comes down / Tell me who will help you now?” you will swear you have already heard them ricocheting around a recent festival. There’s no doubt that another highlight is Gemma’s stupendously funky bass, which will compel even the most sedentary in society to move their hips. More than a shout out must go to Joe on drums and Ethan on lead guitar, who combine to make a band that’s tighter than a welded Fanta lid.
Zombies are notorious for staggering en masse towards a potential victim. In a way, let’s follow their lead by marching ourselves towards a local venue – preferably one at which Rooted will be performing their grunge-infused pop punk:
You Can catch Rooted at the following shows
- 27th January – Worcester – Drummonds – Check out of preview of this show
- 21st February – Birmingham – Deadwax
- 27th February – Shrewsbury – Alberts Shed
- 10th May – Birmingham – Actress & Bishop
‘(Pushing) Roses’ is outon 17th January via Bandcamp
By: Neil Laurenson