Manchester’s ROLLA continue their rise with the release of their second EP, We Owe You Nothing. Showcasing both their anthemic power and newfound versatility, the record highlights their evolution as a band.
Manchester’s ROLLA have carved out a reputation for their electrifying anthems, thunderous riffs, and colossal hooks, as heard in fan favorites like Ease My Mind, Sweet Lullaby, and No Violence. Now, the band showcases their evolving sound with the release of their highly anticipated second EP, We Owe You Nothing, featuring the striking new single Beautiful Lie.
Opening with plaintive acoustic guitars, Beautiful Lie marks a bold departure from ROLLA’s signature intensity. Yet, even longtime fans will be surprised at how effortlessly they excel in this new sonic territory. James Gilmore’s raw, heartfelt vocals capture themes of loneliness and searching for direction, while the song’s soaring hook turns pain into catharsis. The comparisons to The Verve’s timeless ballads have never felt more fitting.
“This is probably the most professional and mature song we’ve ever written,” says James. “From its structure to the melodies and the weight of the lyrics, everything feels intentional. It’s got that anthemic, hands-in-the-air energy made for festival crowds—one of those tracks that doesn’t just play in the background, but completely takes over the space. It contrasts with the heavier songs on the EP, but in its own way, it’s just as powerful—built for big moments, big stages, and big crowds.”
We Owe You Nothing has already been previewed with its explosive, psych-tinged title track and the recent single It Ain’t Easy. The EP is rounded out by The Slide, which premiered on John Kennedy’s Radio X show. As ROLLA’s first release on Run On Records, the EP follows 2023’s Nothing Less Than Everything, which shot to #1 on both the iTunes Album and Alternative Charts. Marking another milestone, We Owe You Nothing is also the band’s first vinyl release.
The lineup—featuring James Gilmore (vocals), Luke McConnell (guitar), Tom Paddon (guitar), and Luke Gilmore (bass)—welcomes back drummer Ryan Hunt, who originally played with the band at its inception before stepping away due to other commitments. He replaces Saul Bardsley, who recently departed on good terms.
ROLLA have built a formidable live reputation, from supporting Kasabian in arenas to tearing up festivals like Truck and Neighbourhood Weekender, and selling out last year’s fundraiser at the legendary Salford Lads’ Club. Their biggest headline show yet, at Manchester’s New Century Hall on May 3rd, is selling fast, with only a limited number of tickets still available. The band’s upcoming tour includes shows with Pastel, a Sheffield Indie Showcase, and major festival slots at The Godney Gathering and Truck Festival. A Radio X session with longtime supporter John Kennedy is also on the cards, with plenty more to come.
Upcoming Tour Dates
MARCH
7th – Birmingham, Mama Roux’s (supporting Pastel)
8th – London, Tufnell Park Dome (supporting Pastel)
29th – Sheffield, The Indie Showcase
MAY
3rd – Manchester, New Century Hall (HEADLINERS)
JUNE
14th – Scunthorpe, Westview Live (HEADLINERS)
JULY
19th – Somerset, The Godney Gathering
24th-27th – Oxfordshire, Truck Festival