Sax as a synth is 2026 for me.

You can hear this perfectly on "It Comes Creeping," a phenomenal, broody, chugging post-punk anthem by DEADLETTER.

It Comes Creeping by DEADLETTER

The band weaponizes the saxophone. It doesn't swing or soar.

It cuts.

Like a rhythmic saw, locking into the bassline and propelling the track forward.

Although we are only two-thirds of the way through the year, this is already a surefire pick for me for the ten songs for 2026.

The band initially started in Yorkshire before relocating to London. They released their album Existence Is Bliss in early 2026, which is a brilliant follow-up to their critically acclaimed 2024 debut, Hysterical Strength.

Lead vocalist Zac Lawrence can do no wrong in my eyes. I saw them at a BBC Introducing show a few years back, and he is a classic frontman in every sense. I would honestly watch him perform "Mary Had a Little Lamb," and it would still be a brilliant show. There is genuine belief and intensity in every single word and action during his performance.

This authenticity is exactly why I'm including "Fit for Work" in the archive. Despite being "small-p" political, you can tell they spotted an issue they cared about and wrote a song. You just know it comes from a totally authentic place.

Fit For Work by DEADLETTER

I have also gone for "Pop Culture Connoisseur," which I just find funny. I am not from Wisbech, Cambridgeshire, but I feel like I am being slightly poked fun at with this song, which I love. Further, I will never forget them playing at The Hundred cricket tournament. The broadcast camera cut to unexpected fan Phil Tufnell, who then waxed lyrical on live television about how much he enjoyed the band.

Pop Culture Connoisseur by DEADLETTER

So yes, I think they are a great band, and I am very much looking forward to seeing what else is coming from them.

(Ps: more circular referencing on the site soon, as I also wrote the Wikipedia page for this band!)