Our Nameless Boy have released “(Not in My Name),” the second track from their upcoming EP ‘Thorns,’ and it arrives with both a music video and a sharp political edge. The Bristol alt-rock four-piece have built something quietly ferocious here, channeling the quiet-loud dynamics of the late 90s and early 2000s US alternative scene into a track that pulls no punches about the hollowness of political posturing.
Guitarist and vocalist Iain Gorrie is direct about the song’s origins. “‘(Not in My Name)’ highlights the hollowness I often perceive in political speeches and discourse,” he says. “There are certain things that almost shouldn’t need to be said, and then when they are, it feels like there’s no substance or action to back those words up.” It’s the kind of observation that cuts deeper the longer you sit with it, and the band have wrapped it in a track that demands you pay attention.
The video, directed by videographer and I, The Lion singer Chris Evans, leans into performance over cinema, using mirrors as its central visual device. Gorrie explains the thinking: “We could metaphorically hold these mirrors up to the main character in the song, who is using their platform to publicly denounce the actions of others whilst doing nothing to actually counter such actions. Having little to no eye contact from us as we’re performing highlights how this character refuses to take a good look.” It’s a smart, purposeful visual choice.
Our Nameless Boy draw from Manchester Orchestra, Thrice, and MewithoutYou, and those influences are audible without being imitative. The band is Iain Gorrie on guitar and lead vocals, Chris Brain on bass and vocals, Ewan Simpson on lead guitar and vocals, and Will Purcell on drums and vocals. ‘Thorns’ is out now on Bandcamp and across all platforms, with an EP release show at The Croft in Bristol on May 15th.
‘Thorns’ EP Track Listing:
- ’38
- (Not in My Name)
- Thorns
- Little Bird
Upcoming Live Dates:
May 15 – Bristol – The Croft (EP Release Show)