Sea Fever are a dynamic five-piece collective fronted by Iwan Gronow (Haven, Johnny Marr’s band) and Beth Cassidy (Section 25). Formed in 2019, the group also includes New Order’s Tom Chapman and Phil Cunningham – Tom handling bass, guitars, synths, and programming, while Phil brings his signature guitar work. Driving the band’s pulsating rhythms is drummer Elliot Barlow. Their debut album, Folding Lines, dropped in 2021 to widespread acclaim, quickly establishing them as a band to watch and setting high expectations for what’s next.
The supergroup have just unveiled the fourth teaser from their forthcoming album Surface Sound. Titled ‘Go To Ground’, the energetic new track follows ‘Should’ve Been This Way’, ‘Breaking Out’, and ‘Loose Cut’ – a trio that already highlights Sea Fever’s evolving, experimental sound. With each release, the band continues to push their creative boundaries, building on the momentum and innovation first sparked by Folding Lines.
‘Go To Ground’ has already made waves at recent live shows, including last year’s performances and the band’s latest gigs in Macclesfield and Leek, quickly becoming a fan favourite. Described by vocalist and guitarist Iwan Gronow as “a no-nonsense song about ambition and change,” the track features tight, syncopated beats from Elliot Barlow, paired with infectious hooks and melodic layers from Phil and Tom. While its funky, experimental edge pushes boundaries, every element lands perfectly in place – making it another essential piece of the Surface Sound puzzle.
Iwan Gronow
“People can be held back by the system, dulled down and told to stay in their place and this is our call to climb out of the box that people put us in. Positive thinking brought me to Manchester in the first place, grew my self-belief and I’ve always tried to follow this doctrine. Feelings of being lost change to being more certain about who you are and where you are going.”
Sea Fever aren’t afraid to challenge their own formula, even when it comes to vocals. The hypnotic ‘Loose Cut’ for example sees Beth take the lead with her signature smooth delivery, while ‘Breaking Out’ finds her and Iwan blending seamlessly in perfect harmony. On ‘Go To Ground’, it’s Iwan who takes centre stage, revealing a new depth to his voice. The track showcases his expanded vocal range and highlights just how far he’s come as a vocalist in recent years.
To celebrate the release of Surface Sound on 30th May 2025, Sea Fever have announced a string of live appearances. These include a special album launch show at The Yard in Manchester, a run of intimate in-store performances, and a set at this year’s Kendal Calling.
Remaining tickets for the band’s in-stores and album launch in Manchester are on sale here.
Surface Sound is available to pre-order in multiple formats – including CD, vinyl, and digital – from the band’s official website.
