Electric Pets Unleash ‘Nicky Is Dead’

January 23, 2026 rocknews

Derby, UK four-piece Electric Pets are back with a bang in 2026, releasing their punchiest single yet: “Nicky Is Dead”. Dropping on all digital platforms via Reckless Yes Records on January 23, 2026, this track marks their first new music in six months and arrives with a raw, live-recorded intensity that captures the band’s explosive energy.

Kicking off with a killer, fuzzed-out riff that grabs you instantly, “Nicky Is Dead” builds into Emma Buckley’s unmistakable smooth yet powerful vocals. The chorus is pure earworm gold – catchy, anthemic, and the kind that lodges in your head the second the song ends, begging for repeat plays. This one’s got a noticeably harder edge than some of their earlier surf-tinged gems, blending garage rock grit with their signature retro flair.

Rock News was lucky enough to be in the room last year when the band captured this track (and the rest of their set) live – an incredible night of music as they recorded material for what will be their first live album. The electricity in the air was palpable: tight grooves, raw emotion, and that undeniable live spark that makes Electric Pets so addictive on stage.

Electric Pets: Derby’s Garage Rock Revivalists

Fronted by singer-songwriter Emma Buckley, Electric Pets are a four-piece blending garage rock, surf, blues, 60s girl group vibes, and Joe Meek-style retro-futurist electronica – all wrapped in a bold 21st-century package. Think Wolf Alice’s bite, PJ Harvey’s attitude, Wet Leg’s wit, and Blondie’s cool, with nods to Mazzy Star’s dreaminess and Courtney Barnett’s storytelling.

The band formed during the 2020 Covid lockdowns when longtime collaborators Phil Wagg (guitar/backing vocals) and Pete Darrington (bass) started file-sharing ideas. Emma Buckley (Phil’s niece and a solo singer-songwriter) joined quickly, followed by versatile drummer Adam Grace. Nearly 20 songs emerged remotely before restrictions lifted, leading to rehearsals and their explosive live debut.

Their breakthrough came fast: Debut single “Don’t Leave Me” (June 2022) became BBC Introducing Track of the Week, with John Kennedy on Radio X calling them “simply incredible.” BBC Introducing dubbed them “your new favourite band.” They’ve since dropped a string of acclaimed singles and two EPs (Rhinoceros and Elephant in 2022), racking up over 120,000 Spotify plays and selling out physical copies in weeks.

Live, they’ve owned festivals like Y-Not, Splendour, and Sonic Boom, plus sold-out headlines in London, Nottingham, and Derby. Their sound – twangy rockabilly, breathy 60s vocals, bluesy Jack White-esque riffs – makes them a standout in the modern indie scene.

FFO: Wolf Alice, PJ Harvey, Camera Obscura, Wet Leg, Angel Olsen, Liz Phair, Soccer Mommy, Mazzy Star, Courtney Barnett, Blondie, Deep Sea Diver, Blood Red Shoes, Waltzer.

What’s Next for Electric Pets in 2026?

“Nicky Is Dead” teases more music throughout the year, including potential live album material from that unforgettable 2025 recording session. With their growing buzz and festival pedigree, 2026 looks set to be massive for this Derby crew.

All Electric Pets releases are available on Spotify, Apple Music, Bandcamp, and major platforms. Stream “Nicky Is Dead” from January 23 and catch them live when dates drop – these shows are chaotic, fun, and full of that signature swagger.

FAQs About Electric Pets’ ‘Nicky Is Dead’ Single

When does ‘Nicky Is Dead’ release?

January 23, 2026 on all digital platforms via Reckless Yes Records.

Was ‘Nicky Is Dead’ recorded live?

Yes – captured during an epic live session last year (2025) as part of their first live album recordings. Rock News was there – pure magic!. The version of the track in the video is the live version that will be on the live album, the actual single release to Spotify etc is the studio version.

What’s the sound like?

Harder-edged garage rock: killer opening riff, Emma Buckley’s smooth/powerful vocals, and a hooky chorus that’ll stick with you all day.

Who are Electric Pets?

Derby four-piece: Emma Buckley (vocals), Phil Wagg (guitar/backing vox), Pete Darrington (bass), Adam Grace (drums). Formed in 2020 lockdowns, blending surf/garage/blues/60s influences with modern indie edge.

Where can I listen to their music?

All releases on Spotify, Bandcamp, Apple Music, etc. Start with “Don’t Leave Me,” their EPs, and now “Nicky Is Dead.”

Electric Pets keep evolving, and “Nicky Is Dead” is proof: tougher, catchier, and perfectly timed for 2026. If you love raw, riff-driven indie with killer vocals, this one’s for you. Stream it on release day and join the growing fanbase – Derby’s finest are just getting started!

● TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@electricpetsband
● Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/electricpetsband

● X: https://x.com/PetsElectric
● Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/electricpets
● Bandcamp: http://electricpets.bandcamp.com

● Spotify: