Penfriend may sound like a new name in rock music, but Laura Kidd (her real name) is quite a veteran already. The Bristol-based music producer and songwriter started her music career as a bassist and vocalist for hire. In that role, she toured the world with the likes of Tricky and a-ha. From 2010 to 2019, she released four full-length solo albums and played 600 live shows under the moniker She Makes War.

Since then, she has been making music as Penfriend. Half a year ago, I highly recommended her single The Only Way Out Is Through. Her new track Cancel Your Hopes is just as great. Musically, the upbeat, empowering track is equal parts garage and pop-rock. Lyrically, despite its title, it encourages you to keep thriving even in a hopeless place. Powerful in every sense.

Recommended as well:
Penfriend – The Only Way Out Is Through

Follow Penfriend on Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Spotify

For more great new music, follow the constantly updated Carte Blanche Music playlist.

Werner Schlosser

I’m a music industry watcher and journalist. Worked at a CD club, a record store chain and was editor in chief of an entertainment trade magazine. Have been in the radio business since 1987, producing and presenting shows. Was music director of several stations. Also, I developed the European Border Breakers Chart, Music Moves Europe Talent Chart and ESNS Chart. CEO of Werner Bros. tekst | uitleg.