UK group Holiday Ghosts have a packed schedule for March. They are gearing up to release their fifth album, Coat of Arms, by the end of the month and are set to kick off their US tour this week, starting with performances at NYC’s New Colossus Festival and SXSW in Austin.
Known for their jangly sound reminiscent of classic power pop, Holiday Ghosts have curated a list of their favorite power pop tracks, featuring bands like The dB’s, Squeeze, The Nerves, Big Star, and more. The band’s lineup includes drummer/singer Katja Rackin, guitarist/singer Sam Stacpoole, bassist Morgan Lloyd Matthews, and guitarist Ben Nightingale, all of whom contributed to the selection. You can explore their list and insights below.
During the New Colossus Festival, Holiday Ghosts will be part of the BrooklynVegan showcase on Thursday (3⁄7) at Knitting Factory @ Baker Falls, where they kick off the night at 7 PM alongside Prewn, Meagre Martin, La Sécurité, MX Lonely, NOBRO, Robber Robber, and Silent Mass. Access to the event is available with a New Colossus badge or through ticket purchase.
Apart from the showcase, Holiday Ghosts have two other performances lined up at the New Colossus Festival: Wednesday (3⁄6) at Berlin Under A (10:45 PM) and Saturday afternoon at Pianos (5:45 PM).
Holiday Ghosts’ Top Picks in the Power Pop Genre
Kat’s Selections:
- The Nerves – “When You Find Out”: Kat highlights The Nerves as the ultimate Power Pop band, reminiscing about the nostalgic vibes this track evokes from cruising around Cornwall carefreely.
- Flamin’ Groovies – “Shake Some Action”: A timeless classic that has been a constant companion during meals and seaside strolls for Kat.
Sam’s Choices:
- Big Star – “When My Baby’s Beside Me”: Initially skeptical, Sam’s appreciation for Big Star grew during a solo road trip through Germany, leading to a newfound love for their music.
- Squeeze – “Up The Junction”: A song that Sam remembers performing acoustically at a school event, showcasing its memorable rhyming structure and vivid storytelling.
- The dB’s – “(I thought you) wanted to know”: Sam praises this quintessential power pop track for its emotive lyrics and sweet melodies, particularly lauding Richard Lloyd’s guitar work.
Morgan’s Favorites:
- Gizmos – “See About You”: Morgan expresses admiration for the melodic and sensitive side of punk/power pop showcased in this track by the Gizmos.
- Incredible Kidda Band – “Fighting My Way Back”: Morgan appreciates the classic theme of heartache intertwined with catchy choruses and simplistic yet impactful chord progressions.
Ben’s Picks:
- The Replacements – “Hold My Life”: Ben opts for a track from the album Tim, praising the raw and unhinged energy that defines The Replacements’ music.
- Language School – “Tours”: Ben highlights the infectious riff of this track, describing it as a simple yet unforgettable earworm that deserved more recognition.
For a playlist featuring all the songs from their list, except The Incredible Kidda Band’s track which is not available for streaming, check it out here: [Playlist Link].