Single Review: Garden Party - Better (Than You)

Manchester indie rockers Garden Party, have released their new single ‘Better (Than You)’, with the track being a snide look back at a relationship, where one half is still in the honeymoon phases, blissfully unaware that the other half is slowly falling out of love.

To a fresh listener, the vibe and sound of the quartet could be compared to Manchester’s finest The Courteeners. A mysteriously dark start leaves us eagerly awaiting more from what the rumbling drum beat is offering. Opening lyrics ‘Too busy with my mind on cloud nine, for me to realise’, begins the emotional turmoil of a one-sided relationship to follow.

An energetic mix of mellow lows and powerful drums and vocals revs the track forward, as lead singer Liam’s rough and weary vocals perfectly convey the agony of the lyrics. Juxtaposed by the indie-party beat, this song wouldn’t be out of place as a closing number of a long-awaited festival.

It’s clear to see the band have excelled in achieving that classic 90’s swagger with a modern sound, intertwined with sweet reminders of the Britpop era without being so heavily reliant on musical style and anthems of the past. ‘Better (Than You)’ is just a glimmering hint of what we can expect from this up and coming foursome.

Words: Chloe Tomkins

Listen to Garden Party on the Only A Northern One playlist here.