Q&A: Spyres
Since making waves at Resonate Music Conference 2023, Glasgow outfit Spyres have rapidly evolved into one of Scotland’s most promising and dynamic live bands. With a string of sold-out shows across the UK, standout festival appearances, and the release of their genre-blending single “Fun”, the four-piece are charging into a bold new era while staying grounded in the youthful, high-energy sound that first turned heads.
Following the release of their acclaimed EPs Dear Diary and Karaoke Sellouts, Spyres have taken their music beyond UK borders—headlining shows in Paris and Copenhagen as well as playing New Colossus Festival (New York) and SXSW (Austin, TX). Spyres are now gearing up for an exciting slot at Sziget Festival in Budapest, alongside the likes of Chappell Roan, Kneecap, and The Last Dinner Party.
With momentum on their side and a reputation for electric live shows, Spyres are firmly establishing themselves on the UK and international indie scenes. We caught up with the band to talk musical evolution, life on tour, and what’s next in their fast-rising journey.
Check out the Q&A below:
1. You’ve come a long way since Resonate 2023—sold-out shows, new music, trips across the Atlantic. What’s been the biggest “pinch me” moment so far?
A proper “pinch me” moment has to be our second gig in New York, after a bumpy start to our journey we played to a packed out 3-tier venue. With some people even singing lyrics back, it felt like a real rock star moment representing Scotland on the other side of the world.
2. Your new track “Fun” definitely lives up to its name—was it as fun to make as it is to listen to? And does it hint at a new direction for Spyres?
It’s always fun working with Johnny and Marshall (Producers) and we have such a good relationship with them having worked together for so many years. This new track is what it says on the tin really. We experimented on it a bit more by almost ditching the guitars and going more synth heavy which is something we’ve always been keen to do. I wouldn’t say it is a total change of direction for us though - just a natural progression for us as a band. We’ve come a long way and for us its just about constantly trying out new things while staying true to ourselves. It’s one of our favourite songs to play now and it got a really good reaction on tour with everyone bouncing about to it - thats all you can ask for. It’s a fun song, obviously.
3. You’ve played everywhere from King Tut’s to New York to Copenhagen—what city or gig has surprised you the most in terms of crowd energy?
We’ve went to a great distance but top contender for city and crowd that surprised me most is Bristol at the end of our last tour in April. With assistance from hometown support Hunnybuzz - everyone was full of energy creating a sweat box. There were people crowdsurfing and someone kicked a projector off the roof by accident (apologies to the venue). It’s always good to get an energetic crowd because you can feed off of it. It gives you that injection of energy.
4. If Spyres had to cover one karaoke classic (as a nod to Karaoke Sellouts, of course), what would each of you pick and why?
Emily - From personal experience, I think any pop song between the 90’s and 2000’s is bound to get people up singing with you, so I’ll pick No Scrubs by TLC.
Keira - Unwritten - Tune.
Jude - Elton John - Tiny Dancer. A classic. Everybody loves it.
Alex - Sex On Fire - No comment.
5. You’ve been praised for capturing that coming-of-age, teen-angst-meets-party-vibes energy—what were the bands or songs that shaped your own teenage years?
Over the years, our music tastes have definitely shifted, from the early days of our teens to where we are now but a few artists have always stuck with us. Bands like Alvvays, Wolf Alice, and Courtney Barnett have been a constant source of inspiration and still remain at the top of our list. We were into a real mix, from The Dandy Warhols to Sundara Karma and of course we can’t forget the Glasgow scene that first made us want to do this. Bands like Baby Strange and Rascalton were everything to us when we were 15.
6. You’ve announced a UK tour in Autumn this year, what cities/ locations are you most looking forward to playing? How much are you looking forward to getting back on the road?
Touring is definitely one of the most exciting and rewarding parts of being in a band, so we’re absolutely buzzing to get back on the road. A lot of the cities on this run are totally new to us, which makes it even more special. We can’t wait to meet new faces and play in venues we’ve never stepped foot in. We’re especially looking forward to the Sheffield show as we heard the venue has full on 70s inspired decor, which sounds intriguing. We’ll definitely be asking for the disco ball to be switched on!
7. Last one—what’s on the Spyres bucket list for the next year or so? Any dream collabs, venues, or festival stages you’ve got your eye on?
I think it’s no surprise that one of the top things on our bucket list would be to play Glastonbury Festival. It’s such an iconic event with a rich history and it’s been a career defining moment for so many artists we admire. The atmosphere and the energy just feels like the ultimate place to play as a band.
Releasing more music is definitely a big priority for us over the next year too. We're really focused on building momentum and sharing new material that reflects where we’re at as a band. Alongside that, we’re hoping to take our live show to new audiences internationally, dipping our toes in the water from Copenhagen to Paris has given us the urge to venture further afield. We have a good opportunity at the upcoming Made In Scotland Showcase to do that as we will be in front of some important figures in the international market. It’s also during the Edinburgh fringe which will make it extra fun. It would be a huge milestone for us to support some of our favourite artists on their own tours as well with hopes to reach new audiences and make lasting memories along the way.