Our new favourite band AFTERDRIVE are turning up the heat with the release of their latest single, ‘Necklace’ — a pulsing, alt-pop confession that explores passion in its rawest form.
Gritty yet intoxicating, the track pulses with late-night urgency, wrapping distorted guitars and haunting synths around lyrics that burn with temptation and desire. It’s a bold statement from the rising UK outfit, who continue to blur the lines between alternative and pop while carving out a sound that’s entirely their own.
“‘Necklace’ feels like a statement,” the band say via a press release. “It is more driven, more physical, and intimate, exploring passion in its rawest sense. It still has that AFTERDRIVE sound but with a different kind of energy that we know our fans will love.”
Following a remarkable year of growth and exposure, AFTERDRIVE’s latest release underscores their ascent from local gigs to becoming a regular fixture on BBC Radio 1. Their meteoric rise reached a career milestone this summer when they opened for Ed Sheeran at one of his sold-out hometown shows at Ipswich’s Portman Road Stadium, heralding the band’s readiness to take on even larger stages and cement their place among the UK’s most exciting emerging acts.
Renowned for their infectious melodic hooks and high-octane performances, the quartet — made up of siblings Ben Watts (vocals), and Joe Watts (drums), along with best friends Ed Ruff (bass) and Luke Ellis (guitar) — are rapidly building a devoted following and showing no signs of slowing down.
Fresh off an electrifying support slot with The K’s, the Ipswich born four-piece have recently announced a special hometown headline show at The Waterfront Studio on January 31st, 2026, as part of Independent Venue Week. Fans can expect a night of powerful live energy and crowd-pleasing anthems. Remaining tickets are on sale now, offering a chance to catch one of the UK’s most exciting rising acts in an exclusive setting.
‘Necklace’ is available now on all major streaming platforms. Stream / download HERE!