Lucy Fitzgerald 
Roses in December return with their EP “Divided and Conquered”, and the whole release blasts forward with a wild, unfiltered energy that feels like it could shake the walls of any room. The band described the project as a way to process the current state of Britain through a cartoon lens, and that idea comes through clearly in how each track mixes sharp commentary with a twisted sense of humor. EP Press Release copy
Recorded at Blank Studios in Newcastle with Sam Grant at the controls, the group went in with no demos, no clean blueprint, and no attempt to polish their edges. They wanted something that felt close to their practice room, raw and slightly chaotic, yet still tight enough to hit with real impact. That choice gives the EP a crackling energy, as if the band were plugged in and the moment guided every decision. EP Press Release copy
“Battleship Boomer” jumps out with its sharp satire, taking apart migration policy by twisting it into a warped board game. It hits hard without losing its sense of playfulness. “In The Channel of a Hate Crime” erupts with riffs that keep stacking upward, echoing the way those in power push rhetoric higher and higher until everything feels ready to blow. “Sharks” hides something painful inside its frantic pace, almost as if the only thing left to do is laugh while the tide pulls you under. These tracks land with force while still cracking a grin at the absurdity of it all. EP Press Release copy
The artwork adds to the punch. Viz Comics cartoonist Lee Healey created a wilted red rose that nods to the Labour Party’s fading symbolism and the black and white identity of Newcastle. It gives the release a visual bite that pairs perfectly with the sound. EP Press Release copy
As someone who has always loved punk at its loudest and most honest, this EP grabbed me fast. The rough edges do not feel careless. They feel real, and that authenticity pulled me straight into the world the band is shouting from.
Roses in December continue building momentum, with past support from BBC champions and shows across major festivals and sold-out hometown stages. “Divided and Conquered” reinforces their place as a fierce Northern voice refusing to sit quietly while everything falls apart. EP Press Release copy
Make sure to follow Roses in December on every platform you use and save these tracks to your playlists. Support the band, share the release with your friends, and turn the volume up until your speakers start sweating.
Listening to songs so you don’t have to! Just kidding :D, you totally should. Music blogger by day, nurse by night
