Start Listening To: SLAP RASH

SLAP RASH delivers a raw exploration of desire and reality in their latest single 'Chokeheld.'

Hailing from Somerset but now firmly planted in Manchester, SLAP RASH is a sibling duo crafting a sound that is anything but subtle. Their frantic noise rock is a vibrant reflection of both their roots and the electric energy of their adopted city. With their latest single 'Chokeheld', they delve into the tension between longing and stagnation, showcasing their evolution as artists unafraid to embrace improvisation. In this conversation, they share insights about their creative process, the role of collaboration, and the unique moments that come with touring. Their candidness reveals a duo deeply engaged with their craft and the world around them, always eager to push boundaries.

For those unfamiliar with your music, can you tell us who you are, where you’re from and about the music you make?

We’re SLAP RASH. Siblings from Somerset but residing in Manchester for the best part of a decade now. We make frantic noise rock.

How did the creative process for your latest single 'Chokeheld' differ from your previous releases?

Chokeheld came about from a riff Huw brought to rehearsal. We built this song more ‘in the room’ (whereas in the past we’ve spent alot of time on demos before workshopping live). The whole ending was basically improvised in the studio too which was good fun. We tend to bounce off the studio atmosphere to help develop our songs. Amelia has reams of lyrics so we pick the ones that feel closest to the sonic elements and run with a theme from there.

Can you share some insights into the themes or messages behind 'Chokeheld’?

‘Chokeheld’ is about the tension between internal desires and external realities. The suffocating feeling of being trapped in an environment that doesn’t fulfill you, yet not being able to fully escape it. It’s the weight of boredom that makes you feel like you’re choking on your own thoughts, craving something new, but too hesitant to dive fully in. It’s a flirtation with rebellion, chasing the brief thrill of stepping outside your comfort zone, but always followed by the return to reality the next morning.

What role does collaboration play in your music, especially considering your work with other artists like Samuel William Jones?

Sam’s our producer, he’s awesome. Collaborating with someone who really understands you and your vision, and isn’t afraid to push you to go further / achieve more, is a privilege. The writing tends to be an isolated task done between us two, but we’re very open to collaboration (particularly during the recording process). We just want to make the best version of the song possible.

How do you balance your individual artistic visions while working together as a sibling duo in Slap Rash?

We have very different tastes on paper. I think it’s taken time but we’re both open to genre-bending and just rolling with what one of us feels passionately about. I think we both try to absorb as much music and art as possible. It makes such a difference going into writing sessions when you expand your influences. We’re always learning from each other. It’s all about saying “yes, and?”

Can you describe the visual aesthetic you aim for in your music videos or live performances, and how does it enhance your sound?

Our music videos always come from a little nugget of an idea from Amelia. We’re not afraid to throw some overt imitation in there. The Chokeheld music video is a (big) nod to Chris Morris’ ‘Jam’ for example. We’ve pulled in influences from David Lynch, David Firth, Terry Gilliam. Our videographer Seth Lloyd takes Amelia’s ideas and amplifies it. The live ethos has always been unwavering. Our music is aggressive, and the physicality in the performance follows. Our favourite bands have an energy that bleeds into the audience, we share this goal.

What are some of the most memorable moments from your recent tours, especially when supporting bands like Mandy, Indiana and Ditz?

The Mandy, Indiana tour was excellent. I think we really learned a lot about playing well and steady every night. And beyond supporting bands we’re absolutely massive fans of, there are so many completely unique moments in touring that form stories you’ll remember forever. It’s something that always floors me (Amelia) every night - the kindness, quirkiness, hospitality and love outpouring from complete strangers in towns I might never have visited otherwise. It’s so special. Having a great tour manager also really helps (so underrated but critical for success). Shout out Giorgio Carbone.

How do you see your music evolving in the coming years, and what new directions would you like to explore?

We’re pushing to develop our songwriting and grow with it every day. Amelia’s been dying to get a sludgy metal track on a record so maybe that’ll pop up soon. Or we might run with Huw’s fascination with noise - taking the live show to another level. We just want to get heavier and heavier.

What role does your Manchester background play in shaping your sound, and how does it influence your identity as artists?

Coming to Manchester from Somerset was obviously a big change, and one we both really craved. Manchester nurtured us from day 1 and we’ve pretty much had our foot on the gas ever since our very first gig. I think whatever you want to say about us, it’s undeniable that we’re relentless in our pursuit, and Manchester completely facilitate that for us.

How do you engage with your local community, and what impact do you hope your music has on those around you?

We engage by being present and saying yes. We try our best to have our finger on the button - and whether we’re contributing by playing fundraisers or championing independent venues, I hope we’re able to give back a little bit to what the city has given to us.

What do you love right now?

Right now we’re in the van driving through Belgium and we’re loving Arlequin sweets and their indistinguishable yet pleasant flavour, sleeping in synthesiser bedrooms, Picon aperitif a l’orange, exploring cities we’ve never seen before. Rider dinners.

What do you hate right now?

Hating having to hold in this piss because there’s no fucking services for miles.

Name an album you’re still listening to from when you were younger and why it’s still important to you?

Amelia: I’m listening to Facelift by Alice in Chains. That album really opened the door to heavy music for me, and though my taste has definitely reached new screaming depths, that album is so important to me and always will be. 1 min 55 in ‘Sunshine’ blew my fucking brain out my ears.

Huw: Demon Days by Gorillaz is the only answer for me. The atmosphere and mood it establishes throughout is genius. Timeless album.

When someone hears your music for the first time, what do you hope sticks with them?

The energy. The urgency. The storytelling.