In this feature we ask mainstays of the music establishment who they think will be the next big act to break.

This time we had the opportunity to quiz Swim Deep's Austin Williams about his favourite new acts.

Having enjoyed a wealth of successes throughout their 7+ year career, including everything from slots on Glastonbury's infamous Other Stage to an entire U.S. with The 1975, Birmingham-born band Swim Deep took a well-deserved break in 2017.

Returning to their respective homes to reflect on their journey so far, the quintet took time to themselves before embracing the opportunity to push the band in a bold new direction.

Returning with 'To Feel Good', an uplifting reinterpretation of Zambian-born Zimbabwean singer Rozalla's iconic 1992 club anthem 'Everybody's Free', the lead track from the band's newly announced third album Emerald Classics combines humbling spoken word verses that exist firmly in reality, whilst the glacial, choral chorus is both elevating an life-affirming.

Without further ado, here's Austin's top tips for 2019.

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LAUNDRY DAY



(Photo: Veronica Habacker)

This is a very exciting new band from New York, they're all still at school and from what I saw on their amazing mini documentary (videos of them fucking around in the studio having fun and generally showing big signs of potential genius song writing) they are working with Romil Hemani from Brockhampton already. They're my tip for the top, their energy is infectious, and for me that’s one of the most important things about anyone or any band/artist. One of those bands you see and immediately want to be part of somehow.



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DO NOTHING



(Photo: Dan Kendall)

Band from Nottingham who make a kinda, no-wave/talking heads style of music, it's exciting and the lead singer’s story telling is great. Also, mega baselines, riffs, and counter rhythms, this song 'Gangs' is a real journey.



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CAROLINE POLACHEK



I'd never listened to her before but Harriet aka Hatchie recommended this song to me and I instantly fell in love and put it on repeat forever. The way the vocals prance around the lush atmosphere of bouncy synths and clouds of noise make me extremely happy.



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Swim Deep's third album Emerald Classics will be released on the 4th of October via their newly formed label imprint Pop Committee through Cooking Vinyl.  

-Holly Mullineaux