Red Telephone

Red Telephone is a Cardiff-based band formed in 2018, known for their unique blend of melodic psychedelia, darkwave, and synth-pop influences. Their sound is often likened to early David Bowie and Gary Numan, infused with shimmering guitar textures reminiscent of Drab Majesty, creating a brooding, atmospheric vibe that evokes the dystopian mood of films like *Blade Runner* and *Drive*. The band is made up of two sets of brothers who grew up near each other and attended the same high school, adding a tight-knit, personal dynamic to their music. Their debut album, *Hollowing Out*, received critical acclaim and media support from outlets such as BBC 6 Music and Radio X, with Clash magazine praising it as an “impressive and masterful debut.” Now, with their sophomore album *Delay the New Day* set for release in early 2025, Red Telephone continues to explore themes of paranoia, doubt, and dissolution while evolving their sound with a fresh, bold optimism.

Their music stands out for its cinematic quality, multi-instrumental intricacies, and an aesthetic heavily inspired by the synth-heavy soundtracks of cult films. The band draws inspiration not only from classic artists like Bowie but also from contemporary acts like Gilla Band and Choir Boy, blending the past and present into a compelling, modern alternative sound. Tracks like “What to Believe” showcase their ability to mix complex lyrical themes with funky, rhythmic instrumentals, transporting listeners back to an 80s groove with a modern twist. Red Telephone’s creative vision and sonic identity place them as a rising force in the UK’s alternative music scene.