North Shields band Hector Gannet release new single ahead of third album
North Shields band Hector Gannet have released their new single ahead of their third record coming later this year.
The bands emotive sound has been praised by music lovers from Chris Packham to Sam Fender and acclaimed as ‘North Shields’ answer to Crazy Horse’ by Uncut Magazine.
That reception is reflected in new single Seven Signs – a rousing soul sermon blending the group’s North East roots with touches of Dexy’s, Style Council-era Paul Weller and a hint of Bruce Springsteen.
While Hector Gannet’s music is rooted in classic rock and pop influences, the lyrics take it somewhere different – towards a literate Tyneside modernism.
Lead singer, guitarist and songwriter Aaron Duff said: “Seven Signs is about the God Complex and how those suffering from it seem to actually believe in their powers.
“I used a lot of biblical references in the lyrics, which informs the vocal delivery and leans into the soulful drive we ended up with.”
Hector Gannet’s reputation has grown through two previous albums and a series of high-profile live dates with artists including Elbow, Sea Power, Lindisfarne and Richard Thompson.
They have also played major shows with Sam Fender at Newcastle United’s St James’ Park.
The band take their name from a fishing vessel on which Duff’s late grandfather served. The boat suffered a fatal misadventure off Great Yarmouth in 1968.
Duff says the North East continues to shape the band’s sound and identity.
“I don't think my music would sound anything like this if I wasn't from this area,” he said.
“With North Shields and the North East, I feel a strong connection to the past, the present and the future and also to nature and humanity through the physical things that surround me.
“That’s my church, I suppose, and it gives me and my music an identity. In that regard, the music and words almost write themselves.”
Hector Gannet are currently working on their third album, The Great Shakedown, due for release later in 2026.
Following a recent sold-out 600-capacity show in North Shields, the band are also preparing to perform at the SXSW festival in Texas.