Stoke 4 piece Moral Panics are building quite a momentum in their native Staffordshire, and with new single ‘February’ on the way in May that forward movement only seems set to gather pace.
Influenced by ‘bands that have tried something new’, namely the likes of Foals, Peace Swim Deep and Nirvana, theirs is a dark, rocky indie-pop sound with complex guitar lines mixed in with hard-hitting, straight up rhythms and chunky chords.
The new single ‘February’ is typical of this, an energetic tune with intricate, varied rhythm and some lovely smooth vocals to overlay the almost percussive guitar lines.
Taken from the ‘WLVS’ EP – out now – the track is a timely reminder that this group is one of the most creative bands in Staffordshire. Passionate about the arts as a whole, Moral Panics count clothing designers, novel writers and film makers amongst their number. But music is their greatest individual and shared love.

Andy Gannon – Guitar
Dan Johnson – Vocals/Guitar
Tom O’Neill – Bass guitar
Jazz Smith – Drums

It’s an important chemistry that exists between the current band members. Line up changes due to University schedules and other outside influences have resulted in the creation of this, their strongest and most potent line-up yet.
And don’t just take our word for it. Having been invited to support the likes of Dog is Dead, Moral Panics have also received support from BBC Introducing Radio including the recording of live session. Their strong local fan base means they regularly sell out their hometown gigs.
But the potential beyond that is immense for Moral Panics, and with the new single and other releases on the horizon, 2014 could well be their year.
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