GLASGOW SEXTET LACUNA SHARE FAN FAVOURITE NEW SINGLE ‘SHELLEY’

SINGLE REVIEW | LACUNA – SHELLEY by Anne Kelly

Making their 2025 new music debut this week are Glasgow based folk-rock sextet with their Valentines Day release, ‘Shelley’. Ending 2024 on a euphoric high after performing a full capacity set at Glasgow’s Tenement Trail before securing a SAMA (Scottish Alternative Music Awards) Best Newcomer nomination, the BBC Introducing Scotland acclaimed act have everything to play for this new year. No exception to the hype, ‘Shelley‘ continues to raise the bar yet again.

Already well known to Lacuna’s biggest fans, ‘Shelley’ has played a dominant role of their dynamic live appearances for some time now. But now, the infamous track has been stripped of that live setting energy and has been revamped in the studio for your at home listening pleasure. For those who have never heard it before, this is what ‘Shelley‘ feels like.

‘Shelley‘ gallops in with an idiosyncratic melody, with the different instruments frolicking in an offbeat rhythm before the harmonious vocals melt in with “I can feel it”. This same dynamic carries almost monotonously throughout the first 48 seconds of the track before unexpectedly bursting through your speakers. A crashing angst driven energy elevates the track to a fresh height with the vocals shifting to the repeated chorus of “She’s never been seen before”. Lyrically, the song has garnered a level of mystique to it; which of course plays into the track title taken from said woman’s name. Who is Shelley? The passionate tones of the repeated “Oh Shelley” which follow, secure the impression of a romantic connection – possibly an introspective one – which carries into the next verse where lyrically the sentiment of passion remains.

The breakdown around 2.30 brings fresh intensity, bringing another vocal tone into the mix, as the two voices bounce off each other; “Shelley don’t go, Shelley hold on” plays on repetition building towards a cathartic climax, screaming “Shelley won’t do as she’s told!” before delving into the final minute of feel good, hip swaying pop rock. Adding playful squeals of laughter on it’s departure leaves a flirtatious personal touch, one which doesn’t take it’s self too seriously and captures that euphoria I’m sure is found in their live performances.

A really strong, playful track which is a great introduction to what should be one of Glasgow’s most exciting new bands this year. Listen to ‘Shelley’ now and hear her live this April when Lacuna play Glasgow’s multi-venue festival HOUSEGUEST.

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Anne Kelly

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