THE FRONT ROW

Black Bear Kiss are back, and they’re swinging with intent. Their latest single Say Something crashes onto the scene with a confident swagger, blending snarling indie rock energy with heartfelt emotional weight. It’s riff-driven, full-bodied, and above all else, honest. If you’ve been craving a guitar-led anthem that’s equal parts stomp and soul, here’s your new fix.

The track wastes no time laying its foundations. A punchy, toe-tapping rhythm immediately sets the tone, led by a crisp, uncomplicated guitar riff that draws you in without overcomplicating the formula. Think early Kasabian in its intro, moody but magnetic, until the melody kicks up a gear and begins to shapeshift. Suddenly, you’re pulled from the warehouse and into a more open, emotional space. There’s a transatlantic warmth to it, not unlike the sweeping alt-rock sound of Goo Goo Dolls or Lifehouse.

Vocally, frontman Chris Leech delivers with clarity and control. There’s a Dominic Bassnett-esque quality in his tone, a clean, impassioned delivery that knows when to hit hard and when to hold back. And in the spaces where most frontmen might go full throttle, Leech and the band show restraint. The musicianship here is clever; guitars and percussion do their job without jostling for attention, giving the vocal melodies room to breathe.

The real curveball, and perhaps what elevates Say Something above your average indie churn, is the inclusion of guest vocalist Michaela Wylde. Her contribution is beautifully judged, offering a delicate counterpoint to the heavier textures of the track. Her harmonies glide above the riff work, adding a touch of softness that steers the song into more emotive waters. It’s a clever move from a band that’s showing growth and confidence with each release.

Lyrically, Say Something explores the often-messy art of communication, particularly within relationships, whether romantic, familial, or platonic. “Relationships and communication with the people we love change over time,” says Leech, and that theme is etched into every note and lyric. There’s vulnerability here, but it never gets bogged down in cliché. Instead, Black Bear Kiss tap into something universal: the struggle to stay connected when life pulls people in different directions.

As the track builds towards its finale, you can almost see it playing out on a summer festival stage, lights blazing, arms in the air, crowd shouting back every word. It hits all the right beats without ever feeling forced or formulaic. The crescendo is classic indie rock in structure, but the emotion underneath keeps it fresh and rooted in something real.

Black Bear Kiss have always been ones to watch on the Midlands scene, but Say Something feels like a real statement of intent. It’s radio-friendly, emotionally intelligent, and tailor-made for a live setting. With collaborations like this and songwriting that isn’t afraid to wear its heart on its sleeve, the band are proving they’re more than just a solid local act.

Playlist this. Festival it. Feel it.