CARSICK is a four-piece band from Nottingham, UK, often described as blending grunge, punk, and alt-rock with a raw, energetic edge. The band consists of Jack Richardson (vocals), Jack Hamilton (guitar), Jack Purdy (bass), and Jack Hardman (drums). They formed through mutual friends and their shared love for heavy, guitar-driven music.
CARSICK is known for their unapologetically loud guitars, driving rhythms, and a vocal style that combines raw shouts with melodic hooks. They draw influences from the grunge era, while injecting a modern, youthful urgency. Their music often explores themes of frustration, social commentary, and personal anxieties with a direct and impactful approach. They’ve built a strong live reputation, playing to packed venues and supporting acts like Bilk and The K’s, and have gained traction on streaming platforms and radio.
“Backseat” is a new single by CARSICK, officially released on June 20, 2025. It serves as a track from their upcoming EP, “Backseat,” which shares the same title and is set for release on August 22, 2025, via Fierce Panda Records.
Lyrically, “Backseat” appears to delve into themes of disillusionment, social critique, and a sense of being left behind or powerless. The band describes the song as being about “disappointment” and the feeling of “watching the world change around you” without having control, referencing a sense of helplessness when facing issues like the cost of living crisis and societal shifts. Lines like “I’ve been stuck in the backseat for so long now” powerfully convey a feeling of passivity or being a bystander in one’s own life or in societal changes. The phrase “Just a backseat driver, but I’m going nowhere fast” further emphasizes this frustration and lack of progress despite awareness.
Musically, “Backseat” is a quintessential CARSICK track: expect heavy guitar riffs, a driving rhythm section, and raw, emotive vocals that amplify the song’s themes of frustration and yearning for control. The single is a strong indicator of the aggressive yet reflective sound that will define their upcoming EP.
