In May 2026, The Northern Line released their self titled debut. Its four tracks cared not for the contemporary at the time it hit the streamers, preferring instead to draw a huge influence from the 90s. Bringing the sounds of Madchester and Britpop, the EP – released on the band’s own Mad Fer It label – showcased some great musicianship, as well as spotlighting a band who knew how to work some great hooks…borrowed or otherwise.

They’ve already shared the enjoyable ‘Lightning Strikes’ and ‘Throw a Fist’ as digital singles, but despite only being a short release, The Northern Line have also earmarked ‘Out In The Drift’ as a focus track, complete with a promotional video (which can be seen in full below).

‘Out In The Drift’ isn’t The Northern Line’s most immediate track, but still has plenty to recommend it. The number takes a side step into more melodic territory, allowing a shimmering rhythm guitar to bring a pinch of dream pop coolness to contrast a strong 90s indie inspired rhythm. The lead vocal clings onto an already safe style for the band, but the slower, more spacious musical arrangement brings something a little different to the table. The mellower stance gives guitarist Pete Kitchener more room to stretch out, but without ever hampering bassist Joshh Magee, who fills a lot of this number with some pleasingly pointed sounds, even punching through one of the more prominent guitar solos, whilst drummer McG makes the creation of a solid backline seem almost effortless. If you enjoy this track, then the rest of the EP is well worth your time.

Read a review of the full EP here.