British Birds - Murmurate, Oscillate British Birds

Murmurate, Oscillate is the latest album from British Birds, one of the UK's most exciting live bands. 

A murmuration is the low hum made by vast, beautifully choreographed flocks of starlings as they simultaneously flap their wings and take to the sky. Some people say the frequency of this unique, rumbling, oscillating sound can cure diseases.

British Birds combine the garage-punk energy of Billy Childish, the wry English sophistication of XTC, and the witty pop inventiveness of The Lovely Eggs. Based in Chorley, Lancashire, the resolutely DIY band records, mixes, and creates all of its own artwork. Their first two self-released albums sold hundreds of copies through gigs and selected record shops, while sessions for Marc Riley and Gideon Coe, along with tours supporting The Bug Club, BC Camplight, and The Lovely Eggs, have helped build their reputation.

Murmurate, Oscillate opens with Lie Down With Dogs, Stand Up With Fleas, a rousing expression of frustration at passivity in the face of weak authority. Throughout the album, British Birds combine sharp social observation, humour, and surrealism, with songs such as Polka Dot Eyes exploring the lasting impact of war, while Scary Movies, Just Like Them, Blame Game, and Thunder Claps examine family, introversion, and relationships. Even at their darkest, the songs are driven by huge, memorable choruses.

The core members of British Birds are siblings Bobby Townson and Emma Townson, working from their HQ-cum-nest in Chorley. Drums are performed by Dominic Lawson, with Michael Aindley appearing on Just Like Them, while bass duties are handled by James Robinson. British Birds will embark on a UK headline tour in early 2027.