The Oozes Release New Single “Bitchboy”
London/Manchester-based queer punk band, The Oozes, recently released a high-energy single titled “Bitchboy”. After an acoustic snippet of the song being performed by lead vocalist Tom Gilbert was released on TikTok on March 8th, check that video out here. The band quickly gained more and more attention; the video now sits at 1.8 million views.
This song is not The Oozes’ only song that garnered attention through TikTok. From their debut EP With Love, From The Oozes in 2020, we find the song “Blah Blah Blah”. It makes sense why it became popular, especially with a haunting and repeating chorus. The song is driven by low, rumbling bass (Ciara Clark) and guitar (Cherry Cicely), as well as gentle yet powerful drumming done by Olly Chrich. Since the band’s formation in 2018, they’ve shown us their explosive sound and personalities - and “Bitchboy” is no exception.
The release of “Bitchboy” was anticipated since its subtle debut in March and released May 21st. Between the original TikTok and the song’s release, the band continued to drop even more teasers of the song on their platforms - Clark and Cicely added their own spin onto Gilbert’s acoustics, more lyrics were revealed, and eventually a release date was provided. The song is bombastic and harsh, in the best way; it’s a song to crank the volume up high and scream along to, getting out emotions and feelings the way punk intends to.
The Oozes are loud, they are bright, and they are making music for the current generation; powerful music written by a younger crowd, with fueled lyrics perfect for the new wave of the scene full of proud queer punks. Even for those dabbling in punk, their music is still enjoyable and memorable. The lyrics in Bitchboy, particularly, are simple - which is great for new fans and old scene members alike, and perfect to scream at a show.
The band members themselves are also great to interact with, never afraid to show their true colors online and in their music. They are all openly queer and openly themselves on their platforms, not strictly sticking to a professional view as is expected for musicians who may “get big”. There is no shame in calling out oppression on their pages and in their lyrics. The Oozes produce and release their music independently, drawing the DIY attitude from their punk and queercore roots. Their authenticity is what draws listeners in - harsh lyrics, lively fashion, genuine interactions with fans - and the badass music makes them stay.
If you would like to keep up with The Oozes, you can check out all of their links here.
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