Midlands psych-rock duo Solar Eyes have returned with a new single, “Be Under No Illusion”, marking the band’s latest release as they continue to build momentum following a string of critically praised projects and growing recognition across the UK independent music scene.
Released on 28 May, the track arrives alongside two accompanying B-sides — “Sweet Angel” and “All Because Of You” — with the band positioning the release as a significant step forward in the evolution of their sound.
“Be Under No Illusion” delivers an energetic blend of indie psych-rock and electronic influence, combining driving rhythms, distorted guitars and cinematic vocal arrangements. The track also incorporates an unusual 7/4 time signature, placing it among a small group of unconventional rock compositions that have embraced asymmetrical structure.
The band describe the single as drawing influence from acts including Kasabian, Black Rebel Motorcycle Club and Ennio Morricone-inspired western soundtracks, while maintaining a contemporary edge rooted in modern psych-rock production.
Accompanying the lead track are two stylistically contrasting B-sides intended to broaden the sonic identity of the release. “Sweet Angel” explores heavier shoegaze textures and layered atmospherics, while “All Because Of You” adopts a more melodic and restrained tone influenced by artists such as Velvet Underground, Suicide and Bob Dylan.
Collectively, the three tracks reflect a more refined and confident approach from Solar Eyes, following the release of their second album, ‘Live Freaky! Die Freaky!’, earlier this year.
Growing reputation on UK festival and radio circuit
Solar Eyes, formed by Midlands musicians Glenn Smyth and Sebastian Maynard Francis in 2021, have steadily expanded their profile through festival appearances, radio support and a consistent release schedule.
Since their formation, the duo have appeared at recognised industry showcase events including SXSW and The Great Escape, helping establish a dedicated audience within the alternative and psych-rock communities.
The band first gained traction through a series of independently released singles and EPs, including ‘Dreaming Of The Moon’, ‘Alcatraz’ and ‘Naked Monkey On A Spaceship’. Their work attracted support from BBC 6 Music presenter Steve Lamacq and Radio X broadcaster John Kennedy, alongside coverage from publications including The Observer, Q Magazine, God Is In The TV and Louder Than War.
Their music has also featured on mainstream television programming including Match of the Day and Football Focus, expanding their reach beyond the independent music press.
Albums continue to attract critical attention
In 2024, Solar Eyes released their debut album, ‘Solar Eyes’, through independent label Fierce Panda. Produced by Tom Ford alongside the band, the record was mastered by Streaky, with additional mixing and mastering by Jeff Knowler.
The album received favourable reviews across the UK music press, with Louder Than War describing it as featuring “Swooping and captivating soundscapes and haunting vocals that pull you in with twanging guitars and haunting strings that pulls the big sky of the wild west into the mystery of the Midlands.”
The band followed quickly with sophomore album ‘Live Freaky! Die Freaky!’ in 2025, continuing their fusion of psych-rock and electronic influences across a 12-track project that included singles “Murdering Hippies” and “Set The Night On Fire”.
Reviewing the album, The Arts Desk praised the record’s “wild-eyed exuberance that echoes the 1990s’ marrying of electronic dance music and floppy-haired indie tunes.”
The latest single release is being positioned as the beginning of the group’s next phase, with “Be Under No Illusion” serving as what the band describes as a “statement of intent” as they continue to sharpen their identity within the UK alternative music landscape.
Birmingham hometown show announced
Alongside the release, Solar Eyes have confirmed a one-off hometown performance at Birmingham’s Hare & Hounds venue on Saturday 27 June as part of Music Venues Trust Week.
The performance is expected to showcase material from both ‘Live Freaky! Die Freaky!’ and the new single release, with tickets currently on sale.
“Be Under No Illusion”, together with B-sides “Sweet Angel” and “All Because Of You”, is available now across streaming platforms.
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