Since their formation in 2013, Blossoms has proven to be one of the best-kept secrets of British indie pop. Hailing from Stockport, a town just south of Manchester, these five friends have made a brilliant mark on the music scene with their fresh, vibrant sound filled with modern nostalgia.
The band’s name is a nod to The Blossoms, an iconic local pub they frequented. Their musical chemistry was apparent from their first performance at Manchester’s Night and Day Café in 2013, quickly capturing the attention of critics and fans alike. At the heart of Blossoms is a group of talented musicians who have been together since their early days in Stockport Tom Ogden (lead vocals, rhythm guitar) Charlie Salt (bass, backing vocals) Josh Dewhurst (lead guitar, percussion) Joe Donovan (drums) Myles Kellock (keyboards, synthesizer, backing vocals), creating a chemistry that continues to thrive both on stage and in the studio. The band’s lineup has remained consistent since its formation, something rare in the ever-changing landscape of modern music. This stability has allowed them to develop a unique sound that continues to resonate with fans around the world.
With five studio albums under their belt, Blossoms has solidified a musical identity blending indie pop, synth-pop, and new wave influences: Blossoms (2016), Cool Like You (2018), Foolish Loving Spaces (2020), Ribbon Around the Bomb (2022) and the newest Gary which was released in September 2024 and its firs sigle “What Can I Say After I’m Sorry?” followed to “Gary”
Additionally, they released the special album Blossoms in Isolation (2020), recorded during the lockdown, where they reimagined their own tracks and produced intimate, honest versions of them.
Influences That Shape Their Sound Blossoms has cited strong influences from legendary bands such as The Smiths, Arctic Monkeys, The Stone Roses, and The Coral. This mix of references has allowed them to create a sound that feels contemporary yet evokes the melodic spirit of the ’80s and ’90s. From their inclusion in the BBC’s “Sound of 2016” — where they placed fourth — the band has not slowed down. Their debut album earned them a Mercury Prize nomination in 2017, and that same year, they were nominated as British Breakthrough Act at the Brit Awards.
Their popularity has crossed borders, with tours across Europe, the U.S., and Asia, and performances alongside some of the biggest names in contemporary music. A Dream Tour with Inhaler In 2025, Blossoms will embark on an exciting new chapter as the support act for Inhaler, the rising Irish band fronted by Elijah Hewson. This collaboration promises to bring together two of the freshest and most authentic indie acts in today’s music scene.
In addition to supporting Inhaler, Blossoms has announced their own UK shows, including performances at iconic venues like Delamere Forest, Markeaton Park, and Scarborough Open Air Theatre.
The bond between the two bands, built on admiration and camaraderie, sets the stage for a series of unforgettable shows where British and Irish indie music will shine together.
Blossoms’ Sonic Evolution, Oh Gary!
In 2024, Blossoms released their latest album, Gary, a record that has captivated both fans and critics alike. This album represents a new chapter for the band, showcasing a more mature and experimental sound while still retaining the essence that has defined them from the very beginning.
Gary marks a shift toward a more introspective sound, where Blossoms have explored new musical textures, blending influences of synth-pop, alternative rock, and a touch of new wave. The lyrics are more personal and reflective, showing the band’s growth both musically and emotionally. It’s an album that speaks to the experiences of love, insecurity, and personal development.
One of the standout tracks from the album is “How Long Will This Last?”, a song that combines a melancholic melody with enveloping electronic production. This track shines with its deep atmosphere and Tom Ogden’s powerful vocals, which convey a sense of vulnerability while contemplating time and relationships. “How Long Will This Last?” has become a streaming success and has resonated with fans due to its honesty and modern sound.
Blossoms have truly evolved, and Gary is proof of that. With this album, they not only solidify their place in the indie scene but also show they are ready to continue surprising listeners and taking their music to new heights.
A Song That Changed Everything: “Charlemagne”
Though Gary is their most recent work, no conversation about Blossoms would be complete without mentioning one of their most popular and iconic songs: “Charlemagne”. Released on their debut album Blossoms (2016), this track is considered one of their biggest hits and a defining moment in the sound that catapulted them to fame.
“Charlemagne” is the perfect blend of bright guitars, subtle synthesizers, and a catchy bassline, with a structure reminiscent of 90s britpop. The song became an anthem for fans, with its energetic melody and enigmatic lyrics about internal struggle and nostalgia. It reflects the essence of Blossoms— a band capable of merging optimism and melancholy in their sound, striking a perfect balance that makes their songs both catchy and emotionally resonant.
With “Charlemagne”, Blossoms caught the attention of a global audience, solidifying their position as one of the most important bands in the contemporary indie scene. The song remains a fan favorite at their concerts and its enduring popularity has made it a modern classic in their repertoire.
In summary, Blossoms have stayed true to the sound they crafted at the start of their journey while growing both musically and personally. Their ability to evolve without losing sight of their roots has ensured their longevity in the indie scene, and with albums like Gary, they prove they’re just getting started.
