Derby newcomers lean into tension, grit and rising momentum
There’s something compelling about a band that sound like they mean every note they play, and on new single Holding On, Derby five-piece The Red Line, don’t just arrive here; they surge forward, guitars buzzing with urgency and intent. It’s a track that leans into raw, alternative rock energy while keeping its heart firmly on its sleeve — gritty, melodic, and quietly anthemic in all the right places.
Formed in 2025 and drawing inspiration from the likes of Wunderhorse, Keo and Pixies, the band — Jamie (vocals), Conall (drums), Josh (lead guitar), Cam (bass) and Dan (rhythm guitar) — feel like they’re building something honest and organic. There’s a strong sense of identity running through the single; the guitars push forward with purpose, the rhythm section locks in tightly, and the vocal sits front and centre with a tone that feels both reflective and determined.
Holding On moves with a quiet tension, building slowly before opening into something bigger. The layered guitars create a textured, slightly brooding backdrop, swirling and scrapping adding texture and weight, while the rhythm section keeps everything grounded with a steady, heartbeat-like drive. It’s alternative rock with bite, but also with restraint; the band understand when to build tension and when to let the song breathe.
Above it all, the vocal carries a sense of resilience — reflective but never defeated — giving the track a human core that elevates it beyond typical emerging-band fare.
What makes the single land isn’t just the sound; it’s the intent. For a band still early in their journey, there’s a confidence here that suggests they fully understand dynamics — when to pull back, when to explode, and when to leave space for the listener to lean in. It’s alternative rock that values feeling over flash, atmosphere over overproduction.
Having already sold out hometown shows, picked up BBC Introducing support, and followed previous releases The Glass Behind and Here Again, Holding On feels like another clear step forward rather than a tentative one
Ultimately, Holding On captures a band in motion. It’s raw, emotive, and grounded in the kind of guitar-driven honesty that alternative rock was built on. If this is The Red Line finding their stride, then the rest of the UK underground scene might want to start paying attention — because they’re not just holding on, they’re pushing forward with conviction
Holding On is out now.
Gigs
12.03.26 The Vic Derby (Headline)
The Red Line Socials
ThisIsTheMusic 
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