Rankd

M.Woodroe x Rankd

10 April 2025· Kristian Floate

The dynamic alt-rock landscape of M.Woodroe

The enigmatic M.Woodroe emerged back in May ’24 with a fresh motive – whipping their way across Brighton’s grassroots scene and building an audience who have patiently awaited their debut release for almost one year. Recently, their prayers have been answered with the announcement of  ‘Carte Blanche’, a striking alt-rock ballad which tiptoes across stripped simplicity and raspy vocal pandemonium, placing the fresh quartet in an uncategorisable pocket of the local scene – a refreshing sound and a new agenda that hasn’t gone undetected in the local grassroots community.

Crafted with the expertise of Phoebe Bentham at Brighton Electric, Carte Blanche is the product of M.Woodroe’s unique approach to the song writing process – something we witnessed first-hand during our conversation back in late February. Incorporating spoken-word, pained screams and an extensive vocal range, this debut sets a riveting tone for a band who are crafting a bold and courageous sound of individuality and charm that is difficult to turn down.

"I like it a when a lot when people say that - 'what genre do you think that you are?' It's indicative of us as people, and of us as musicians - taking all these influences. It means we can blend into different communities, which is really lovely."

After their recent appearance at The Pipeline alongside Wimp & Tummyache courtesy of local juggernauts Sugar Free, paired with a polarising line-up back in February with noise-rockers Staff Party – M.Woodroe are defined by a dynamic soundscape that compliments the diverse array of projects emerging in Brighton, and advantageous position that has landed put them in high demand in the local scene.

The fuzz-kissed sounds of Carte Blanche mark the foundations of M.Woodroe’s unpredictable yet head-turning discography, something that will continue to grow in 2025.

The quartet are marking the release with a party at the Cowley Club on April 16th, alongside a fundraiser for the Mutual Aid Vegan Foodbank on the 21st – in unmissable company with Had Sandy, who released a captivating EP last month – alongside Sarah Tonin and Ragdoll (who have also released their debut a few days ago).

Carte Blanche is out 11/4, and is a striking addition to your April soundtrack.