Everything And Nothing: CLASH Meets SOFT PLAY

When SOFT PLAY—formerly known as Slaves—emerged from their hiatus with ‘HEAVY JELLY’, the transformation was striking. The shift from their earlier sound to this new era wasn’t just about a name change but a profound evolution in their approach to music and the make-up of who they are, and what they represent. In the midst of a stacked summer of festival slots, Laurie Vincent speaks to Clash about this metamorphosis, shedding light on the journey from the formation as a band, to the present day, arguably the most successful and fulfilling era of the band so far. 

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Re-entering the spotlight after a period of relative quiet has been a whirlwind for SOFT PLAY. “The band’s like the best it’s ever been,” shares Laurie. A quick scroll on the bands social media makes it clear that Laurie and Isaac have had a pretty extraordinary summer. They’ve collaborated with Robbie Williams on new music, made history by performing at the afterparty for Russ Cook—the first man to run the entire length of Africa—and captivated the Glastonbury faithful with a career-defining set that won them legions of new fans.

 Whilst it’s been glorious in its majority, returning to touring life does of course welcome chaos back into the mix. Laurie reflects on one of the busiest summers they’ve had, “we’ve experienced so much already, there’s always that light and shade, that ying and yang. Touring takes me away from my family, my partner, my children, so there’s that side of it, but we love being on stage, and that is where we’re most comfortable. We are really grateful, and we really want to do it”.

The band’s recent performances, including a standout set at Glastonbury, have underscored their growth not only as a band, but as individuals. Their set was met not only with a welcomed embrace by day one fans, but also by a plethora of festival-goers all converted as new fans after their. Fans new and old were collectively enamored at the bands seamless ability to play music that is profoundly relatable, chronicling love, loss and the absurdity of day to day life. Laurie reflects on the lead up the Glastonbury show, admitting, “I had a real inner monologue… I was like, you’re just going to enjoy this today… It was like I was trying to take screenshots with my eyes, because you don’t get to stand up on that stage very often, like it’ll be a handful of times in my whole lifetime, and it’s a privilege to do it.”

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This new chapter for SOFT PLAY comes with a distinct shift in their creative process. Laurie describes how the band took their time crafting ‘HEAVY JELLY’. “We took so much more time over it,” he reveals. Unlike previous albums, this record benefited from a deliberate, unhurried approach. The duo’s commitment to this project led them to postpone its release until they felt it was truly ready.

Laurie’s pride in their latest work is palpable. “To have a show’s worth of songs that you feel proud of makes the shows so much more enjoyable,” he says. The band’s decision to prioritise tracks they genuinely wanted to perform live has without doubt paid off, with their new material resonating strongly with audiences.

SOFT PLAY’s artistic evolution is evident in their new sound. Laurie and Isaac’s approach to the album was influenced by a diverse range of music. Laurie’s personal listening journey included everything from the Pogues and Waterboys to Black Flag and System of a Down. This eclectic mix, combined with Isaac’s decision to avoid external influences and focus purely on the music, resulted in a unique blend of genres.

“It all felt like what we were doing was this weird blend of nu-metal, folk, and punk,” Laurie explains. This combination reflects their intention to create something fresh and distinct while drawing from various musical traditions. The result is an album that feels both innovative and deeply personal.

The release of ‘HEAVY JELLY’ has brought a newfound sense of accomplishment and validation for the band. Laurie shares, “When we made this record… I was like, if we put this out, we’re going to be the biggest we’ve ever been by January next year.” The positive response, including high chart positions and sold-out shows, validates those affirmations about the album’s success. The band have truly found their feet by using their lived experience professionally and personally to create an environment that let’s them be the people and musicians they truly are. 

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The band’s approach to their release and promotion has also shifted. The music industry that too often champions burnout culture, and a rock and roll lifestyle that inevitably takes it toll. No longer do the band feel inclined to act, say and do what a punk band supposedly should. It’s reflected in the name change, and tracks like ‘Punk’s Dead’ that is a sonic act of genius sticking two fingers up at badly aged attitudes in the music world. The band brilliant re-work social media comments lamenting them for their name change, Robbie Williams even makes a cameo on the track. This new attitude is reflected in Laurie’s decision to spend their album launch budget on a spa day for their team, rather than a traditional party, champions this refined outlook. “It’s something I think everyone actually really loved doing, it was so nice to actually just take a minute to chill out with the team” he says. 

With their new album and a successful return to the stage, SOFT PLAY are poised to take their sound far beyond the British Isles. Laurie expresses “I feel like we could have a really good crack at America, we’d love to support someone like Slipknot or Korn.” Laurie’s excitement for what lies ahead is infectious, marking a U-turn from the days where they once dreaded the touring and recording process. It’s a project that feels wholeheartedly revitalized, accompanying on their growth not only as artist but people. 

As they prepare for their upcoming tour, SOFT PLAY’s journey reflects a band that has not only reinvented itself but also reaffirms their commitment to authenticity and creativity. Laurie’s closing sentiment encapsulates their current state: “I feel like a runner who’s the fittest they’ve ever been… and our band’s ready to take everything on.” We can’t wait for what lies ahead…

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‘Heavy Jelly’ is out now.

Words: Josh Crowe

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