After nearly a decade of dedication and perseverance, the Reading-based quartet Only The Poets have finally unveiled their highly anticipated debut album, marking a significant milestone in their musical career.
A Labour of Love and Self-Reflection
Today sees the official release of And I'd Do It Again, a 14-track record that represents the culmination of almost ten years of hard work for the band. Frontman Tommy Longhurst has openly expressed that the group are immensely proud of their courage in creating this album, which they describe as their most honest and cohesive work to date.
The Emotional Journey Captured in Music
The album serves as what Longhurst calls a "time capsule" of the band's journey over the past seven years, documenting personal growth and emotional experiences through themes of jealousy, regret, heartbreak, and resilience. Recorded over several months with producer Dandelion, the collection showcases their signature alt-pop sound complemented by distinctive 80s-inspired synths.
"We're just so proud of this album and that we had the courage to make it," Longhurst revealed. "It's the best representation of us as a band — there's been a lot of self-reflection, growth and discovery. We can't wait for everyone to hear it."
Natural Evolution Rather Than Forced Creation
Guitarist Clem Cherry emphasised that the album came together through a remarkably natural process, describing it as the most "unforced" project the band has ever undertaken. Rather than deliberately setting out to create an album, the band gradually accumulated songs that thematically and sonically complemented each other, resulting in what they feel is an organic representation of their artistic development.
"The whole process of putting it together has just been so natural," Cherry explained. "We never really sat out like 'Right, it's time to make an album' — it was just kind of like we slowly stockpiled this collection of songs that all met each other in terms of themes, songwriting, and sonically they kind of gelled."
Accessibility and Fan Connection
True to their longstanding commitment to making live music accessible, the band have scheduled a headline performance at O2 Academy Brixton on Monday, with tickets priced at just £1. This approach reflects their mission to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to experience their music live, a principle that has guided them since their early days playing grassroots venues.
Full Circle Moment for the Reading Quartet
The album's title, And I'd Do It Again, perfectly encapsulates the band's philosophy that every experience — both positive and challenging — has contributed to their current position. Longhurst emphasised that they wouldn't change anything about their journey, viewing each step as essential to shaping who they are as artists and as a band.
"Everything we've been through as a band has led us here," Longhurst stated. "Would we change anything? Nothing. Every step shaped who we are. We really believe that everything happens for a reason, and hopefully, the fans will feel like we're celebrating with them."
Community Engagement and Support
In keeping with their community-focused approach, the band launched a social media campaign to help select a support act for their upcoming shows. The shortlisted acts will perform at Only The Poets' gig in Reading, with fans ultimately deciding the winner just days before the Brixton performance.
The band, consisting of Longhurst, Cherry, bassist Andy 'Roo' Burge, and their drummer, have cultivated a substantial and loyal fanbase through years of dedication to their craft and their accessible approach to music. And I'd Do It Again is now available across all major streaming platforms and for purchase, offering listeners the chance to experience the emotional journey that has defined Only The Poets' decade-long path to this pivotal moment.
