Benefits are a Teesside-based band known for their raw, confrontational sound and politically charged lyrics. Formed in 2019 by frontman Kingsley Hall alongside brothers Robbie and Hugh Major, the group began as a traditional guitar-driven punk outfit. However, during the COVID-19 lockdowns, they evolved into a more experimental project, incorporating electronic elements and noise to reflect their frustrations and observations of contemporary Britain.

Their music addresses themes such as nationalism, classism, and societal complacency. Tracks like "Flag" critique superficial patriotism, with Hall delivering lines like, "This isn't politics, you're just holding a flag, you're just a f***ng pole, wave yer f***ing flag." Their unfiltered approach has drawn comparisons to acts like Sleaford Mods and garnered attention from notable figures, including Pixies' frontman Black Francis and actor Elijah Wood.

So far so good. Most bands would have cut and pasted this success as they moved onto their next album, not so with Benefits. They saw no point in repeating the formula used on their acclaimed debut Nails, and so they have moved on. As John Peel would say, "I wish more bands would do this sort of thing".

The new album, Constant Noise, is out on the day I'm writing this preview. It is ace. All of the above, the state of flux, the new record, makes them an essential watch at Deer Shed in 2025. Not to be missed.