London’s Blockade start off 2026 with scintillating new single Better Off Without
Drawing influences from the likes of Twin Atlantic, Lower Than Atlantis and Royal Blood, the 4-piece offer a blend of hard hitting and metal riffs, powerful and soulful vocals and an enviable rhythm section.
There’s no gentle easing-in with Better Off Without. Blockade kick the door off its hinges from the opening bars, delivering a track that thrives on confrontation, release and hard-won clarity. This is alt- rock with its jaw set — direct, purposeful and emotionally charged without tipping into self-pity.
Built around a driving rhythm section and jagged guitar lines, the song carries a restless energy that never loosens its grip. The guitars slice rather than shimmer, pushing the track forward with a post-punk edge that feels urgent and alive, while the drums lock in tight and uncompromising, giving the song its backbone and momentum. There’s a sense of motion throughout, like the band are running towards something better, not just away from something broken.
Vocally, there’s real conviction at the centre of the track. The delivery feels lived-in and resolute, capturing that moment where doubt gives way to self-belief.
Lyrically, Better Off Without zeroes in on that ugly tug-of-war between craving the thing you know is poison and the quieter voice reminding you it’ll cost you in the long run. It’s about wanting someone (or something) you’re fully aware is bad for you — the tension between what feels electric in the moment and the hard truth you don’t want to admit: walking away is the only way you win, even if it hurts like hell to do it. Blockade don’t dress it up with romance or nostalgia either — this is grit-teeth honesty, turned up loud, where catharsis comes from choosing the long-term escape over the short-term fix.
By the time the final notes land, Blockade have made their point loud and clear. This is a band unafraid to be honest, sharp and assertive — turning personal fallout into something cathartic and anthemic.
With Better Off Without, Blockade sound like a band who know exactly who they are and where they’re heading. There’s urgency in every note, purpose in every lyric and zero interest in playing it safe. Keep an eye on this band. Tracks like this don’t drift through the underground for long.
Better Off Without is released on Friday 23rd January and can be pre-saved here.
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