W: Janett Kay

Whitelands have just released their second album 'Sunlight Echoes', an ambitious step forward from their acclaimed debut. Produced by long-time collaborator Ian Flynn and mixed by Grammy-winner Eduardo De La Paz (New Order, The Horrors, The Charlatans), the record pairs soaring string arrangements from Iskra Strings with guest vocals from Emma Anderson.

Singer and guitarist Etienne Quartey-Papafio describes the album as a document of endurance, shaped by personal and collective struggles. Themes of loss, disconnection, and fragmentation run through the songs, balanced by moments of unity and hope. Bassist Vanessa Govinden highlights the album’s dual nature: the first half carries a breezy, melodic lift, while the second half digs into heavier, more grounded territory.

With stronger focus on melody and Etienne’s voice pushed to the fore, Sunlight Echoes reflects the band’s growing confidence. It’s a record that finds Whitelands pushing through hardship to create a powerful and poetic statement of intent.

The quartet will promote the release with the following UK live dates.

Feb 18 Birmingham The Hare and Hounds
Feb 19 Glasgow The Hug & Pint
Feb 20 Leeds Hyde Park Book Club
Feb 21 Newcastle Zerox
Feb 22 Blackpool Bootleg Social
Feb 24 Manchester Yes Basement
Feb 25 Bedford Esquires
Feb 26 London The Moth Club
Mar 25 Brighton Hope & Ruin
May 23 Southampton The 1865