Filthy Red continue to build serious momentum with Casual Wannabe, a swaggering indie rock anthem bursting with sharp hooks, fast-paced rhythms and enough attitude to light up any packed-out venue. From the very first seconds, the track crashes into life with razor-sharp guitars and pounding drums, instantly showcasing a band playing with confidence, hunger and purpose.
Following the collapse of Backyard Casino, James McEwen (vocals, guitar) stepped away for a while — but the songwriting spark never disappeared. Armed with a fresh batch of songs and a feeling that he was onto something special, he reached out to guitarist Chris Key, a familiar face from Hull’s thriving grassroots indie scene, where the pair had built up a strong mutual respect over the years.
From there, the pieces quickly fell into place. Brandon McCulloch (bass), a longtime guitar student of James who had spent years badgering him to start a band together, was an obvious choice, bringing instant chemistry and hunger to the project. Then came a chance meeting with drummer Jordan Kinsley — an encounter that immediately clicked and completed the line-up.
What started as a fresh creative outlet rapidly turned into something far bigger. Filthy Red were born: loud, ambitious, and ready to make noise.
The first two songs the band worked on were The Afters and Casual Wannabe, both tracks originally left over from the Backyard Casino days. The band spent the latter part of 2025 rehearsing, writing and recording, culminating in the release of their staggering and anthemic debut single The Afters in February.
That momentum now explodes into Casual Wannabe, a track that perfectly balances raw indie-rock energy with infectious melody. The guitars shimmer and snarl in equal measure, driving the song forward with a restless urgency that feels tailor-made for sweaty club shows and festival singalongs. There’s a real sense of movement throughout the track, with every verse building tension before the chorus crashes in with maximum impact.
Lyrically, the song takes aim at image, pretence and scene culture, delivered with a knowing smirk and plenty of bite. Filthy Red never overcomplicate things either; they understand exactly what makes great indie rock work: massive hooks, relatable themes, swaggering riffs and choruses that stick in your head long after the track finishes.
The vocal delivery from James McEwen adds even more weight to the song. There’s grit, attitude and frustration running through every line, while the rhythm section keeps everything surging forward at breakneck pace. Add in the soaring guitar work and the explosive closing moments, and Casual Wannabe becomes impossible not to get swept up in.
With only their second single, Filthy Red already sound like a band kicking down the door of the UK indie scene. Casual Wannabe is loud, infectious and packed full of anthem-ready energy, the kind of track that feels destined to become a live favourite.
Casual Wannabe is released on Friday 15th May.
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