Rubbets: The Garage Rock Revivalists

Rubbets are a high-energy garage rock band from Manchester, England, known for their raw, riff-driven sound and explosive live performances. The group achieved mainstream recognition with their 2018 debut album, "Static Buzz," which charted in the UK Top 40 and spawned several singles that became staples on alternative rock radio.

Early career

Formed in 2013, Rubbets emerged from the vibrant DIY music scene in Manchester's Northern Quarter. The founding members, vocalist/guitarist Leo Vance and drummer Mia Shaw, began writing songs in a shared basement rehearsal space, eventually solidifying the lineup with bassist Samir Patel.

Their self-released 2015 EP, "Cheap Thrills," caught the attention of local independent label Gritty Pop Records. This led to a series of support slots for touring acts and a growing reputation for their unpolished, fervent stage presence.

Breakthrough

The band's breakthrough arrived in 2018 with the release of their debut LP, "Static Buzz," on Gritty Pop. The album's lead single, "Neon Shakes," received heavy rotation on BBC Radio 6 Music and cracked the UK Singles Chart, ultimately earning a silver certification for sales exceeding 200,000 copies.

Fueled by relentless touring and a wave of positive press, "Static Buzz" climbed to number 32 on the UK Albums Chart. This success established Rubbets as leading figures in the modern garage rock revival movement.

Key tracks

Neon Shakes — This breakthrough single defined their signature blend of fuzzed-out guitars and infectious, shout-along choruses.

Static Buzz — The title track from their debut album showcases their ability to craft a potent, radio-ready anthem from a foundation of lo-fi grit.

Cheap Thrills — An early fan favorite from their EP that remains a live set staple, highlighting their punk-infused energy.

Motor City Blues — A track from their 2021 follow-up album that demonstrates a matured songwriting approach with a driving, blues-rock backbone.

Following their initial success, Rubbets returned in 2021 with their sophomore album, "Circuit Breaker," which debuted at number 28 in the UK. The record featured a collaboration with fellow Manchester artist Jalen on the track "Northern Lights." While maintaining their core garage rock sound, the album experimented with broader psychedelic rock textures, earning critical praise for its evolution.

Fans of Rubbets' brand of British garage rock should also explore The Sherlocks for their anthemic indie-rock songcraft. The raw energy of The Blinders captures a similar visceral, politically-charged intensity. For a more psychedelic twist on the genre, The Magic Gang offer melodic hooks within a fuzzy framework.

The music of Rubbets maintains a strong presence on radio, particularly across alternative rock radio stations and online rock radio streams that champion guitar-driven music. Their hits are frequently featured on playlists alongside both classic and contemporary rock acts, ensuring their sound reaches a dedicated audience of rock enthusiasts.

Listeners can discover the driving garage rock of Rubbets through the various radio stations featured on our website. Tune in to stations available on onairium.com to hear their essential tracks and experience the raw power that defines their catalog.