By Colin 
The Upper Hand have unveiled their powerful new single ‘Bottle of Pain’, released on 25th July 2025 across all major streaming platforms. Born from personal turmoil, the track delivers a raw and emotional narrative wrapped in the band’s signature indie rock sound.
Written back in 2022, ‘Bottle of Pain’ is the band’s earliest composition and represents a foundational moment in their journey. Built around themes of grief, heartbreak, and emotional exhaustion, the song channels the pain of letting go – of people, of past projects, and of former lives. These emotional truths are paired with gritty guitar lines and expressive vocal delivery, creating a sound that’s both personal and universally resonant.
“Bottle of Pain is a product of us choosing to use music to handle those feelings,” says lead singer Aaron Samuel. “It’s about popping a cork and celebrating, even if the feelings are tough. It was a cathartic checkpoint moment that allowed us to close old chapters and start fresh with The Upper Hand.”
From grief to groove
Despite its emotionally heavy subject matter, ‘Bottle of Pain’ never falls into despair. Instead, it leans into the kind of rhythm and energy that gives listeners something to hold onto. It’s a striking balance between introspection and drive, blending classic rock elements with indie and pop sensibilities. Funk-inspired undertones ripple beneath the surface, giving the track its pulse.
Formed in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Exeter and Torquay-based band came together during a period of upheaval and uncertainty. Their debut came in August 2022, and since then they’ve been carving out a name for themselves in the Devon music scene. Their genre-hopping style – drawing from rock, pop, indie, and blues – has seen them rise quickly, culminating in the title of ‘Devon’s Best New Artist 2023/24′
Live, they’re known for their infectious energy and ability to leave a crowd buzzing. Tracks like ‘Bottle of Pain’ showcase the emotional core behind the chaos, reminding listeners that even pain can be something to celebrate, once it’s put into a song.
With their mix of anthemic hooks and reflective storytelling, The Upper Hand are not only telling their own story; they’re tapping into feelings that many have struggled to articulate. And with ‘Bottle of Pain’, they do so with authenticity, energy, and heart.