UK trio HotWax have arrived in full force with their debut album Hot Shock, out now via Marathon Artists. The album is available in three eye-catching vinyl editions, each inspired by the band members’ hair: “The Tallulah” (black with a blonde stripe), “The Alfie” (gold), and the Rough Trade exclusive “The Lola” (bright orange).
Co-produced by Catherine Marks (Boygenius, Wolf Alice) and Steph Marziano (Picture Parlour, Cassandra Jenkins), the album was also shaped by Warpaint’s Stella Mozgawa, capturing the raw intensity that defines HotWax’s live performances. The band describes Hot Shock as a chaotic yet fearless snapshot of their journey so far, balancing the high-octane rush of the stage with introspective moments drawn from life on the road.
Accompanying the album release, HotWax have dropped the video for “Strange To Be Here,” directed by frontwoman Tallulah Sim-Savage. Speaking about the song’s theme, she shares, “Wherever we are, it feels strange and hard to settle. You start to analyze everything, picking apart yourself.” The track perfectly encapsulates the disorienting whirlwind of touring life.
Named the UK’s most hotly tipped independent band of 2024 (Record of the Day), HotWax have earned their reputation through relentless touring, with over 200 electrifying shows in just 18 months. Their live performances have captivated audiences at major festivals and on tour with acts like Royal Blood and Frank Carter & The Rattlesnakes.
