4 November 2026 – Slates Unleash Hot Wings and Bring Funk, Punk and Northern English Attitude Into an Explosive New Chapter

Leeds alternative-rock quartet Slates have introduced "Hot Wings", a new single marking the beginning of their partnership with This Feeling Records and LAB Records. The group combine aggressive guitar riffs with funk-influenced rhythms and the confrontational energy of contemporary British rock. Frontman Louis Barnes describes the composition as a statement about ambition, personal determination and the importance of refusing to accept circumstances that prevent young people from pursuing their goals.

Its energetic chorus encourages listeners to get up and take action rather than passively waiting for circumstances to improve. Guitarist Joe Briggs cites influences including Rage Against The Machine, Beastie Boys and Red Hot Chili Peppers, although the group remain determined to establish their own musical identity. "Hot Wings" was produced by Ben Harper at Liverpool's Motor Museum, with the producer's previous credits including The Mysterines and The Kairos.

The recording follows a busy festival season featuring performances at Truck, Y Not?, the Isle of Wight Festival and Barcelona's La Mercè. Slates have also announced an important hometown concert at Leeds Beckett Students' Union on November 28, supported by Spangled and LEAZES. A sold-out London appearance at Elephant's Head takes place today, November 4.

The group see "Hot Wings" as the first release in a broader sequence of new material. Their combination of youthful ambition and heavy instrumental arrangements suggests an encouraging addition to Britain's independent rock scene. Apparently the most effective motivational speech may involve considerably fewer inspirational posters and substantially more distorted guitars. Check out heavy British guitar sounds in our punk section and explore more live reviews in our news index.