Review: The Kettle Zone

Up next is the new single from The Kettle Zone called Little by Little, and from the opening bars it’s immediately clear this is exactly what we need on a rainy January morning. A bright, summery, pop-leaning blast that lifts the mood in seconds, it feels like bottled sunshine poured straight through the speakers.

There are clear nods to the likes of The La’s and Gigolo Aunts in the breezy guitar work and effortless melody, but this never feels derivative. Instead, those influences are filtered into something fresh and distinctly their own. There’s even a touch of The Lemonheads in the warmth and charm of the songwriting, giving the track a timeless, feel-good quality that’s hard to resist.

The chorus is where Little by Little really shines, with a subtle retro vocal effect that adds character without becoming a gimmick. The layering throughout the song is beautifully handled, filling out the sound and giving it a richness that rewards repeat listens. Nothing feels overdone, just carefully placed to serve the song and its infectious optimism.

The real joy, though, comes in the outro. As the track builds, layer upon layer is added with real finesse, driving towards a crescendo that feels earned and euphoric. At just three minutes and thirty-three seconds, it leaves you smiling and gently reminds you that summer is only a few short months away.

A joyful, life-affirming slice of pop that warms you up little by little – and before you know it, you’ll have this one on repeat, kettle boiled, dreaming of sunshine.