Introducing: Florentenes

After selling out their debut headline at the iconic Deaf Institute and earning slots alongside Jamie Webster, Sundara Karma and The Royston Club, Florentenes are fast becoming one of the most exciting new acts in the UK indie scene. Their new single ‘What It Takes’ (out this Friday, 11th April) is a swaggering, emotionally-charged indie-rock gem and the third taste of their upcoming EP HOMEGROWN, due 16th May.

Fronted by the raw, distinctive vocals of William Smith, the four-piece blend searing guitar work with heartfelt lyricism and bold choruses built to be shouted back in packed-out rooms. Already championed by Abbie McCarthy’s Future Karma and named ‘Ones To Watch’ for 2025, they’re a band with serious momentum.

1. ‘What It Takes’ feels like a real sonic step up — there’s this mix of emotional grit and soaring energy. Can you talk us through how the track evolved, especially with its 70s rock inspirations and that explosive guitar solo?

At the time I brought this song to the band, we had all been listening to a lot of very different influences - Harry and Will were into much older music than me at the time, and this really helped develop the vibe of the song into what we have today. That huge guitar solo at the end came about when we were jamming the song out in rehearsal - we didn't really think about it, and it just came very naturally. When we brought the song into the studio with Dave Eringa, we really went head first into getting the feel just right. We used a lot of layering and production methods used by the likes of Pink Floyd and Fleetwood Mac, and this really brought the track to life.

2. Luke mentioned that the lyrics were written from the perspective of someone with a narrow view on addiction. Why was it important for you to explore that mindset, and what kind of conversations do you hope the song sparks?

I think it's important to explore that mindset and headspace that some people have because I think there's a huge lack of understanding of people's situations and why they got to where they are. Never judge a book by its cover.

3. From bedroom jams to selling out the Deaf Institute — that’s a big journey in a short space of time. What’s kept you grounded as the momentum has built, and how has Manchester shaped your sound?

I think what keeps us grounded is the fact that we're just four mates playing music at the end of the day, it feels exactly the same as it did on day one. We are all like brothers and love playing our music to our fans.

Manchester has had a huge impact on our sound, even if we don't particularly realise it. If we were from somewhere like Liverpool or London I think we would be a very different band. There's a certain grit that comes with bands from this area that we've seen time and time again in the past. We want to be part of the heritage and be the next big rock band from the North. 

4. Your second EP HOMEGROWN is on the horizon — how does ‘What It Takes’ fit into the bigger story or mood of the record? Can fans expect more of that high-energy punch or a few surprises?

What it takes is by far the softest track on the record and it's a bit of a curveball compared to the rest really. The whole EP is a blend of classic high-energy indie-rock and this track has something different about it - they all do in their own unique way. The fans can expect a nice upbeat track as the final addition to the EP. So let’s keep everyone guessing what that may be. 

5. With a packed summer ahead — festivals, headline shows, and support slots — what’s the one live moment you're most hyped for, and how do you keep the energy fresh night after night?

We're probably most hyped for Neighborhood Weekender - it's our first big festival and the lineup couldn't be any better. Very excited for that one.

We keep the energy fresh by being in each other's company - if anyone's having a bad day they certainly won't be by the time we arrive at the venue! And of course the energy and the reaction from the crowds always gets us energised and keeps us motivated to create new music that can make everyone happy