The Mancunian musician’s debut EP is a bold declaration of who he is and what he can do.

Like all musicians who have a brain big enough to match their musical chops, Andy Goodwin has made a name for himself on social media through a series of quintessentially British TikToks promoting his music. And while this has brought a gathering of fans straight to his door, there’s also an army of keyboard warriors shouting abuse at him from across the road. But, too busy listening to their own voice, what they don’t realise is that they’ve ultimately found Andy’s music because his songs are just damn catchy.

On his debut EP Tales of a Likely Lad, opening tracks Nicest Polo and Fred Perry Girl make this abundantly clear with their loose, sunny sound. Not only are they highly addictive thanks to memorable choruses and charming melodies, but they are also reminiscent of early noughties indie, bringing to mind the likes of Jamie T, The Strokes and The Libertines (who clearly inspired the EP’s title), giving the sense that these are already gig-ready tracks.

But perhaps what is most notable about the EP as a whole, is that there’s no sugar-coating it with Andy; you’ll get it how it’s given, and you’ll take it or leave it. With lines like “I wake up in the afternoon and have another one off the wrist” and “cause I’ll be living in denim till the day that I die” in FUNEMPLOYED, it’s this kind of witty, wind-up lyricism that captures Andy’s no-fucks-given spirit and makes him stand out from the ever-growing crowd. 

Yet, he still manages to bring a sonic depth and melodic groove to much of the EP, proving he has the musical prowess to back up his provocative nature. The almost horizontal Same Old Jeans sticks out for this very reason. Its resonant mix of pointed piano, warm guitar strums and brass flourishes expertly achieves a softer soundscape, while Andy’s charismatic vocals emphasise that he is an undeniably captivating voice who is sure to command the indie scene from this day forward. 

Tales of a Likely Lad is an EP that can be listened to time and time again; on the sofa after a rough night out or whilst enjoying a chilled pint in the sun. And with lyricism as unapologetic and provocative as it is, there’s a refreshingly big slice of much-needed Britpop spirit mixed into this memorable debut, allowing me to say with confidence that this is only the start for Andy Goodwin.

Tales of a Likely Lad is out now via Chosen Music.