Call of Sirens are:

Emily Marden, Vocals

Andy Bawden, guitar

Matt Hance, Drums

Josh Lebow, Bass

Female-fronted alternative rock band Call of Sirens is gearing up for the release of their powerful new single, “Puppeteer,” available on all major streaming platforms from November 8th, 2024.

The band will be celebrating the release of the single with a performance at HMV Portsmouth on November 9th. 

I am told that Call of Sirens is a four-piece band hailing from Portsmouth, UK. Known for their electrifying stage presence and thought-provoking songwriting, the band has built a reputation for producing music that resonates with listeners on a deep, emotional level. Drawing influence from legendary alternative rock acts like Flyleaf, Skunk Anansie, Paramore, Halestorm, and Evanescence, Call of Sirens has cultivated a unique sound that balances powerful storytelling with an energetic, melodic rock aesthetic; that element of story is certainly clear in this new release.

My review: The track opens with just a drum and vocal before the guitar kicks in. This gives a slower, funk-imbibed rock sound. Matt Hance gives a strong performance on the drums and the vocals from Emily Marden provide an emotive delivery. I was a little taken towards a band called The Marmozets that I used to rather like, but they have been very quiet since 2017. Call of Sirens may be best known atm for a track called “Kenopsia,” which is a heavy riff-based track (‘turning handles on skeleton doors). This new single is a bit more melodic, and the riff has that echo of the vocal angst. It’s a neat statement of intent from a band meaning business.

The band tells us that “Puppeteer” delves deep into a narrative of control, manipulation, and eventual rebellion. The song explores the poignant story of a woman who has spent her life bound by the strings of another, forced to act under the influence of a controlling figure. But now she is determined to sever those strings and reclaim her freedom—emotionally, mentally, and physically. In a bold act of defiance, she breaks free from her “puppeteer,” ready to live life on her own terms. The track’s raw, impassioned lyrics are paired with Call of Sirens’ signature blend of driving guitars, intense percussion, and soaring vocals, creating an anthem for anyone who has ever fought to regain control of their life.

Beyond their music, Call of Sirens is actively involved in the local music scene. Drummer Matt Hance participated in the 1000 Lights event for Uprawr Mental Health, where he performed at Birmingham’s Utilita Arena alongside 999 other musicians in a monumental show of support for mental health awareness.

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You can stream their music here

Catch the band live:

9th November: HMV Portsmouth

17th November: Four Horsemen, Bournemouth

21st December: Daltons, Brighton

8th March: The Hobbit, Southampton

MORE TBA check out www.callofsirens.com/gigs

By Lorraine Foley