INTRODUCING: Bristol Post-Punk Trio HOLY POPES Drop Fiery Debut Single “DBT”

With their recent signing to Hull, UK-based label Man Demolish Records, Bristol post-garage punk trio Holy Popes have shared their fiery debut single “DBT”.

The band already have plans to release more music, but for now the teaser is an exciting taste of what’s to come. On a similar plane to IDLES and shame, the gritty post-punk style comes to life with their anti-capitalist lyrics and anthemic delivery.

Commenting on the track, guitarist Dominic Knight says: “Our entire system is based around debt. From using sea shells as markers of goods that are owed, to the paper money we hold in our hands being merely trust in an idea of wealth rather than having actual value. These ideas always affect the poorest in society and we see it so often with money lending, overdrafts and borrowing.

“Promoting ideas of climbing the social ladder through objects and wealth means people can no longer wait for the next car or phone, they have to borrow to obtain it today. This capitalist trick has us blame each other for our ills, and distracts us from the billions that are accrued by the very few, leaving behind them a trail of poor bodies, environmental destruction and social instability. Debt is slavery. Capitalism is organised crime.”

Formed by Knight and drummer Luke Bujniewicz in 2020, the have made a strong first impression with both their sound and name:

“‘Holy popes’—the irony of giving godly importance to man made ideas. Systems of oppression created to make us subservient to religion, to capitalism, to patriarchy. It’s a farce, and music is a machine that kills fascism and bigotry,” enthuses Knight. “Let’s dance whilst we overthrow harmful systems.”

Rounded out by bassist Jake Beckett, the trio are launching forward with their blistering style, fitting comfortably into the well-established UK rock scene. Elements of noise rock and pure underground punk even out the contrasting low vocal growl and pin-needle guitar tones.

Get a glimpse of the trio in action with the accompanying visual for “DBT” below and stay tuned for more:

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