By Colin 
pencil are here with their brand-new single, ‘Sparkling Water’, released today, 12 February, via State51. The London five-piece continue to cement their reputation as one of the most exciting emerging bands, blending romance, melody, and a touch of surrealism into their unique indie sound.
At a time when post-punk revivalism has dominated the scene, pencil stand apart by bringing a fresh sense of wistful lyricism and rich instrumentation back to the genre. Their music offers a dreamy, immersive quality, drawing listeners into a world that is both playful and unsettling.
A Shared Daydream Turned Sound
Describing their latest release, the band state, “‘Sparkling Water’ is the sound of a shared daydream. We swim together through a fantasy that threatens to become a nightmare, both playful and fearful in equal measure.”
The single builds on the band’s growing momentum, following two previous releases that have already drawn widespread attention. With support from The Independent, DIY Magazine, Dork Magazine, The Line of Best Fit, So Young Magazine, and La Blogotheque, pencil are fast becoming one of the most talked-about indie acts of the year. Their music has also gained airplay on BBC 6 Music, with features from Deb Grant, Tom Ravenscroft, Gideon Coe, and a Marc Riley live session.
An Unmissable Live Experience
Known for their electric live performances, pencil have graced stages across the UK and Europe, appearing at Green Man Festival and The Great Escape. Their ability to create an enthralling live experience has earned them a dedicated following, with packed-out shows becoming the norm. They have also joined The Japanese House on tour, further solidifying their place in the indie landscape.
With ‘Sparkling Water’, pencil continue their ascent, proving that their fusion of lush melodies and poetic storytelling is exactly what the indie scene needs. The track is available now on all major digital platforms. You can follow pencil over on Instagram.