Issue 23 cover

Issue 23

featuring The Hara New Issue Out Now
Scoundrels, Showmanship, and Spaghetti Westerns: Liverpool’s Newest Pop Outlaws

"Spaghetti Western delivers a masterclass in tension and release. A soundtrack for the modern-day outlaw."

NEW SINGLE "WON’T STOP MOVING" OUT NOW

W: Mandy Morgan I: Tashi Dema E: Paolo D.C.

From the banks of the Mersey to the dusty trails of a cinematic frontier, Spaghetti Westerns are redefining what it means to be a modern pop band. Blending the grit of vintage rock with the glitter of 21st-century funk, this Liverpool-based outfit is turning every live set into a celebratory riot. For those yet to discover them, think high-energy, radio-friendly pop that tip-toes between the early 2000s swagger of Maroon 5 and the disco-fuelled theatrics of the Scissor Sisters.

The group draws heavy inspiration from the legendary Prince, not just in sound, but in a relentless attitude toward production. By combining the eccentric, upbeat energy of Nile Rodgers with the "gritty" guitar tones of Fleetwood Mac, they’ve carved out a niche that feels both nostalgic and fresh. Their goal is simple: to create music that works as easy listening for the casual fan while offering "production nuances" for the deep listeners.

"Our music is for people who miss the sound of 2000s pop... we never want the listener to be bored."

The name itself started as an inside joke between Colin, an Arizona native, and Paolo, who is half-Italian. However, it quickly evolved into a badge of honour. Just as the original Spaghetti Western films were gritty, independent masterpieces produced outside the Hollywood machine, the name has become a symbol of the band’s own creative independence. This "Western" identity isn't just a label; it’s a fully realised world where every member has a signature outfit and a distinct character.

Behind the scenes, the band eschews diva demands for digital competition. On gig days, you’ll likely find them huddled over a few rounds of FIFA to get "riled up" before hitting the stage. Once the soundcheck is complete, the transformation begins. The moment the bandanas and cowboy hats go on, the focus shifts entirely to the performance, ensuring their live show feels less like a concert and more like one big, inclusive party.

"As soon as we put on our bandanas and cowboy hats, it’s game time."

Looking ahead, 2026 is set to be a breakout year. The band is currently preparing for a landmark headline show at Rough Trade on the 7th of May, a gig they describe as a "huge event" for their growing community. With plans for a string of new singles and a debut full-length album on the horizon, their momentum is undeniable. They are also setting their sights high for future collaborations, citing the virtuosos of Vulfpeck as their ultimate "dream" partnership.

The spearhead for this new chapter is their latest single, "Won’t Stop Moving." An early 2000s-inspired anthem with an 80s funk soundscape, the track masks a deeper narrative beneath its high-energy chorus. It explores the idea of turning a blind eye to chaos—knowing the world is falling apart but choosing to keep dancing anyway. It’s a defiant, rhythmic philosophy that defines the Spaghetti Westerns' mission: in the face of everything, never stop moving.

"It’s about being aware that everything around you is falling apart, but you’re still dancing while you still can."