SINGLE REVIEW: Single Audio Channel - Houston
Single Audio Channel has absolutely nailed it with ‘Houston’—a jangly, uptempo indie rock gem that feels like a sun-drenched throwback to late 80s and early 90s indie. There’s an undeniable charm here, blending the warmth of Teenage Fanclub and Railway Children with the artful edge of The Wedding Present or Campervan Beethoven. The guitars shimmer with delightful effervescence, bright and chiming, while splashy drums give the track an irresistible momentum. It’s catchy, spirited, and full of life, striking that perfect balance between nostalgic and fresh. There’s a real breeziness to the instrumentation, but it never feels lightweight—there’s depth in the songwriting, a sincerity that carries through every note.
Lyrically, ‘Houston’ taps into something deeply relatable—the feeling of being out of place, of not quite fitting into the mould the world expects. But rather than dwelling in that isolation, the song flips it into something empowering. “I don’t fit in and that’s my power” isn’t just a line; it’s a statement of defiance, a reminder that standing apart is something to be embraced, not feared. There’s a real warmth to the way this message is delivered—it’s not preachy or self-serious, just genuine and heartfelt, wrapped up in a melody that feels like a burst of sunlight. It’s the kind of song that lifts your spirits without trying too hard, making its point with an effortless charm.
Musically, the band leans into their influences while keeping their own identity intact. There are clear nods to classic indie and twee pop, but with an art rock edge that stops it from feeling overly delicate. The guitars have a rich, full-bodied tone, with layers of chiming brightness that sparkle over a tight, driving rhythm section. The bright, splashy drums add an almost danceable quality, propelling the track forward with an infectious energy. It’s got that timeless quality where it could slot seamlessly into an early 90s indie playlist yet still sound completely at home in 2025.
It’s rare to come across a track that captures the essence of its influences so effortlessly while still feeling fresh, but ‘Houston’ does exactly that. It’s captivating, joyful, and completely unforced, a reminder of why this style of indie rock has never really gone out of fashion. Single Audio Channel has delivered something wonderful here—a song that feels like stepping into a time machine in the best possible way. I bloody love it!
