UK indie five-piece Isla Rico open a new chapter with Smell The Roses. A sharp, 90s-leaning Britpop burst built on big hooks, grounded emotion, and that sweet spot between live-room energy and late-night replay.
Formed during late writing sessions in Brighton University flats, Isla Rico began as a shared outlet for Callum Richards and Jasper Whitehead — two friends chasing emotion-first songwriting wrapped in stadium-scale energy. Since then, the project has grown into a fully locked five-piece, pulling crowds with raw, belief-driven live shows and songs that wear their heart without forcing the feeling.
Now joined by Harvey Rafferty, Brad Hull, and Sayon Beautfort-Harwood, Isla Rico sharpen their sound on Smell The Roses. With producer Matthew Fisher, it’s all shimmering guitars and forward motion — less nostalgia, more release.
Lyrically, it’s a reset. A reminder to pause, stay human, and find light where you can — without pretending the mess isn’t still there. The sentiment lands because the band keeps it honest: plugged-in, direct, and rooted in how they sound live.
Influenced by the emotional sweep of The Verve, the urgency of Sam Fender, and the spirit of classic Britpop without cosplay, Isla Rico is moving with focus.
Following standout shows at Y Not Festival, Lazy Days, and The Great Escape, Smell The Roses feels like their most confident statement yet.