Emerging as a standout voice in Manchester’s thriving indie scene, Florentenes are back with their most electrifying release yet. Their new single, ‘What It Takes’, is a bold and emotive anthem that showcases the band’s knack for crafting high-energy tracks with heart—and cements their status as one of 2025’s most exciting new acts.
The single marks the third release from their upcoming second EP, HOMEGROWN, set to drop on May 16th, 2025. Packed with passion, grit, and a soaring melodic punch, ‘What It Takes’ continues the band’s journey toward becoming a staple of the UK’s indie rock landscape.
A Raw and Riotous Indie Anthem
‘What It Takes’ bursts onto the scene with a frenetic energy and infectious spirit. Frontman William Smith’s raspy vocals deliver a compelling emotional edge, taking listeners through a build-up of introspection and frustration before crashing into a euphoric chorus. Lush harmonies and raw lyricism meet razor-sharp instrumentation, topped off by a searing guitar solo that ignites the outro with pure fire.
Speaking on the track, guitarist Luke Holding explains:
“What It Takes is one of the very first songs I ever wrote. It was originally inspired by Sam Fender’s ‘Dead Boys’, but it took on its own identity—something like Pink Floyd meets Fleetwood Mac. It explores how addiction is often misunderstood, especially by those looking at it from the outside. We wanted the music to mirror that emotional journey—starting slow, and exploding into something massive and unapologetic.”
From Bedroom Jams to Buzz Band Status
Florentenes began as a creative experiment between Smith and Holding, jamming in bedrooms before rounding out the lineup with Harry Stubbs (bass) and Liam Fiddy (drums). What began as casual sessions quickly evolved into a distinctive, anthemic sound that draws on classic rock, modern indie, and lyrical storytelling.
The band’s reputation is already on a steep climb. Earlier this year, they sold out their debut headline show at Manchester’s Deaf Institute, and shared stages with artists like Jamie Webster, The Royston Club, and Sundara Karma. Their debut EP earned major attention from Spotify, landing on coveted editorial playlists like Hot New Bands, Shockwave, and We Are Manchester.
Florentenes were also tapped by Abbie McCarthy’s Future Karma series and performed in London’s Lower Third, further solidifying their spot as ‘Ones to Watch’ for 2025.
Gearing Up for a Breakout Year
Following a packed schedule of support slots alongside The Guestlist and Red Rum Club, Florentenes are heading into festival season with a full slate of appearances at Feel The Noise, Liverpool Sound City, and Neighbourhood Weekender, among others.
They’ve also been announced as support for Stanleys at Liverpool’s Arts Club on April 26th—yet another step in what’s shaping up to be a breakout year.
You can catch the band playing What It Takes as well as more tracks off their upcoming EP, at various venues across the UK this year. More info here!
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