Emily Breeze is not only one of Bristol’s most compelling singer-songwriters but also a respected music lecturer at BIMM Bristol. Her razor-sharp lyrics and dynamic stage presence have earned her a reputation as a world-class performer. Having witnessed her live show—powered by an all-star band—it’s clear that their energy and precision must be seen to be believed.
Rats in Paradise is Emily Breeze’s third studio album, arriving on July 11, 2025. It follows her debut Rituals and sophomore release Rapture and finds her at the peak of her pop-noir powers.
Emily describes Rats in Paradise as “camp, frothy and mildly ridiculous—like a very English Tex Avery cartoon.” The title nods to a lyric from The Birthday Party, evoking rats in top hats dancing joyously in the gutter. Backed by producer Stew Jackson (Massive Attack, Rodriguez, Nick Cave, Damon Albarn) and her band — Rob Norbury (lead guitar), Andy Sutor (drums), Helen Stanley (keys/synth) and George Caveney (bass) — the record is a joy-ridden masterpiece of danceable, laugh-out-loud synth-pop perfection.
The album is a riot from start to end but here's some of our faves.
The lead single 'Fun' is already a BBC Radio 6 Music staple. Over a sweaty groove, Breeze mocks her own pleasure-first instincts, even dropping an unforgettable “your mum” gag in the pre-chorus. 'Dating A Model' marries a gorgeous melody with savage wit, this track delivers a pen-portrait of an idealised partner alongside a supporting cast of jealous lovers and cocaine communists. 'Forever Money' is a wistful slow-burner, it name-checks Sinatra, corner-shop wine and Only Fools And Horses, even weaving Del Boy’s “This time next year, we’ll be millionaires” into the chorus. 'We Were Lovers' (Redux) is a reimagining co-arranged by Ryan Rodgers (Mumble Tide) and Stew Jackson, this version ups the gothic disco drama to '11'. 'Romance Is Dead' opens the album with barbed reflections on modern love, it sets the tone for the tragicomic world that follows.
If you are yet to see Emily Breeze live, here's your chance to scratch that itch.
2025 Live Dates
July 12 – Le Pub, Newport
July 18 – Paper Dress Vintage, London
July 19 – Venue TBC, Brighton
August 14 – Brit Bar, Weston-Super-Mare
August 15 – JT Soar, Nottingham
August 16 – Venue TBC, Manchester
September 6 – Strange Brew, Bristol
For tickets and support details, visit Emily’s official channels.
