If you’ve spent any time around the UK’s grassroots venues lately, chances are you’ve already heard the name The Molotovs echoing through the walls. Comprising teenage siblings Mathew and Issey Cartlidge, the band have been tearing through the live circuit with a work ethic that borders on ferocious. Their explosive performances have earned them a fast‑growing fanbase, glowing press attention, and a reputation as one of the most relentless young bands in the country.
That momentum was on full display at their packed‑out 100 Club album launch, where photographer Jeanie Jean was on hand capturing the chaos, sweat and electricity of the night below.
Still only 17 and 19, the Molotovs have already clocked up over five hundred gigs, a number most bands don’t reach in a decade. And these aren’t just pub‑back‑room shows. They’ve shared stages with The Sex Pistols, The Libertines, and caught the attention of punk royalty Green Day, as well as Carl and Pete Doherty. Even The Telegraph has tipped them as rising stars, a rare nod for a band yet to release a full body of work.
Speaking about their sonic DNA, vocalist Mathew Cartlidge explains:
“Musically, our influences stem from greats like The Jam, Green Day, and The Sex Pistols. Sonically, we aimed for the band to reflect our adoration of the late ’70s and early ’80s new wave/mod revival.”
That blend of classic punk energy and modern urgency has carried them through a whirlwind year of relentless touring, DIY shows, and festival slots. Their résumé already includes Isle of Wight Festival, SXSW in Texas, 2000 Trees, and a European tour with iDKHOW. And in true Molotov’s fashion, they didn’t wait for a record to build momentum, they sold out Dingwalls and then Scala in London before releasing a single note of music.
Their rise hasn’t slowed. Most recently, the band sold out the Electric Ballroom on 23rd October, a 1,500‑cap venue, with only two singles officially released at the time. It’s the kind of trajectory that suggests something big is brewing, and the industry is starting to take notice.
With a 15,000‑ticket tour on the horizon, including a major date at London’s Kentish Town Forum, The Molotovs are gearing up for their biggest year yet. If their past pace is anything to go by, they’re not just climbing they’re accelerating.
And if you want to dive deeper into their world, our full interview with The Molotovs is now live on the site, offering an inside look at their influences, their grind, and what’s coming next. Interview here… The Molotovs
Tickets available for the tour here: Tour – The Molotovs
Pictures: jeaniejeanphotos Instagram
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