Tanzanian band creates eerie first single “Covet” with dark rituals
With its pulsating drums, intertwined with earthy bass lines and gritty guitar riffs, “Covet” captures a unique atmosphere that vocalist Freya Talbot carefully crafted. Talbot explains that after establishing the foundational atmospheric sound for the lyrics, the word and title “Covet” emerged as the core of the song, shaping the rest of the track.
The Glasgow-based band Tanzana, composed of Talbot, Sarah Dunn on lead guitar, Lily Findlay on rhythm guitar, Katie Hare on bass, and Karolina Skinderskyte on drums, came together in 2023 during their final years of high school. Their music journey began when they were invited to participate in a Battle of the Bands competition against nearby schools. Surprisingly, they emerged victorious and decided to explore further opportunities together, spurred on by the special chemistry they shared as friends and fellow musicians.
Blending elements from alternative rock, post-punk, and trip-hop genres, Tanzana’s unique sound resonates with both organic warmth and subtle dystopian undertones. Drawing inspiration from bands like Radiohead, Big Thief, and Wolf Alice, their music evolves with each new track they create. Intricate textures and reverberating guitar melodies create a melodic atmosphere, with Talbot’s vocals oscillating between haunting whispers and cathartic expressions.
The lyrics of “Covet” delve into themes of longing and obsession, culminating in an almost apocalyptic crescendo with the line “I know it’s the end.” Talbot reveals that the inspiration for the song came to her during a stroll in a forest near her home in January. The eerie, cold, and beautiful environment of the forest significantly influenced the atmospheric essence of the lyrics and the intended emotional impact.
Tanzana’s music delivers a fragile yet intense experience as the melody transitions into a quiet disarray, blending darkness with ethereal tones. The track is characterized by eerie basslines, feedback-laden guitar riffs, and a ritualistic drumbeat that propels the song forward. If “Covet” is an indication of their musical direction, Tanzana is poised to captivate audiences both on stage and through streaming platforms.
Looking ahead, Tanzana is preparing for an exciting series of performances beyond Scotland’s borders. “We are eagerly awaiting 2026, which promises to bring us a lot more gigs outside of Scotland,” explains Findlay. With appearances at events like the Borderline Festival in Dublin and The Great Escape in Brighton on the horizon, the band is focused on refining their visual identity through engaging live shows. For Findlay, the act of coming together with her bandmates to prepare for a performance feels almost like a ceremonial ritual, fueling their passion for creating unforgettable musical experiences.