Rising Hartlepool indie-pop outfit MARKETPLACE are back with their latest single, ‘Ode to Monty’.
Just in time for Valentines day, the five-piece turn their attention to love songs—albeit with a comedic twist—by centring their latest ballad on none other than beloved Gardeners’ World presenter Monty Don.
‘Ode to Monty’ showcases the band’s infectious indie-pop craftsmanship, blending warm, tight production with their signature playfulness. Produced by Chad Rodgers (Benjamin Francis Leftwich, Cape Cub), the track captures the raw energy of their live performances, wrapped in a sophisticated, dreamy soundscape. Rich basslines, crunchy guitar riffs, driving drums, and shimmering synths intertwine, creating a vibrant and memorable sonic experience. The bright, expressive vocals tie everything together, delivering satirical yet heartfelt lyrics with a uniquely compelling charm.
Speaking about the track, lead vocalist Evie Rhodes shares: “We wanted to write a real earnest love song, which is something we’ve never really tackled before due to a habit of not really taking ourselves too seriously. More often than not, that comes across in lyrics too, tackling subjects with a more tongue-in-cheek approach. So Ross (drummer) said, ‘Can you make it about celebrity gardener Monty Don from Gardeners’ World?’ and he became the object of my affections for the lyrics of the song.”
Taking inspiration from artists such as Alvvays, Declan McKenna, Pulp, and Talking Heads, MARKETPLACE—comprised of Evie Rhodes (vocals/guitar), Joel O’Beirne (vocals/bass), Jack Purcell (guitar), Matthew Short (synth/vocals), and Ross Dixon (drums)—melds diverse musical influences to craft their signature sound. The band has already garnered support from BBC Radio 1 and secured editorial playlist placements on Apple Music. Their rising profile has seen them share stages with Alfie Templeman, Swim Deep, The Lottery Winners, and Abbie Ozard, while also selling out headline shows in Manchester, Leeds, and their hometown of Hartlepool.
With a UK tour announcement set for May, ‘Ode to Monty’ signals another exciting chapter for MARKETPLACE.
Listen below:
