MANCHESTER’S NEW OBSESSION: Dreaming of Citra

W: Mandy Morgan

Dreaming of Citra's new single 'Hostage' is available now on all streaming platforms.

Emerging from the beating heart of Manchester’s iconic music scene, five-piece powerhouse Dreaming of Citra is carving a bold and emotionally resonant path through modern indie-rock.

Fusing high-octane instrumentation with infectious pop sensibilities and raw, poetic lyricism, their sound is a kaleidoscope of grit, vulnerability, and undeniable groove. It is a genre-blurring cocktail that’s as heartfelt as it is electrifying. Currently on a mission to become "everyone's next musical obsession," the band sat down to discuss their journey, their "diva" demands, and the stories behind their sound.

For those yet to discover them, Dreaming of Citra describes their music as being full of "summertime charm." It’s the kind of soundtrack you’d want for a first ice cream date, yet it possesses the necessary angst for life’s more serious moments.

"Either way," the band says, "our sound always has that dream-like, atmospheric sparkle which is sure to get anyone and everyone up and dancing!"

While many bands chase a specific trend, Dreaming of Citra pulls from a vast "big pot" of influences, ranging from the legendary melodies of The Smiths to the cinematic melancholy of Lana Del Rey. By blending funk, indie, pop, electronic, and heavy rock, they avoid the trap of imitation.

"We don’t strive to chase a sound; we are very much building our own," they explain. "We’re aiming to be that next big band to bring in a huge crowd at your favourite festival."

New Single: ‘Hostage’

Their latest release, "Hostage," marks a move into what they call "grungy disco." Built on a four-on-the-floor rhythm and a driving bassline inspired by Nile Rodgers and Chic, the track is designed to get legs moving on the dancefloor.

Beyond the groove, there is a deep emotional core. "‘Hostage’ is about the longing and want for someone's love with the hope they reciprocate," the band shares. "It’s a plea to that one person you wish won't forget about you—an admission that you’ll do anything for them."

"Our sound is a kaleidoscope of grit, vulnerability, and undeniable groove."

Every band has its quirks, and Dreaming of Citra is no different. When asked about their pre-show routine, they point toward Bunny Jacksons in Manchester for food and beers. As for the "Mariah Carey" of the group? That title goes to their bassist, Ryan.

"He always has ridiculous demands for us," the band jokes, "like 'turn up on time' or 'bring the correct equipment to the gig.'"

However, the road hasn't always been easy. The band recalls a "disaster" performance from a couple of years ago that featured a leaking roof, a near-empty room, and a physical confrontation with a pub regular during load-out. It was their perseverance through these "dire shows" and several line-up changes that eventually solidified the five-piece.

With a creative process that favors organic exploration over rigid structures, Dreaming of Citra feels "unstoppable" when they work collectively. Their greatest weakness? A soft spot for any gig offered, even if it costs them more than they make at the door. It’s that exact dedication to the craft that suggests their goal of becoming a festival mainstay isn’t just a dream—it’s an inevitability.

The Ten Desert Island Tracks Dreaming Of Citra Can't Live Without ?