Formed in Liverpool, The Tusks have been strong contenders on the North West’s emerging artists scene for some time, and their new single, When It Ends, looks set to propel them even further.
Drawing on influences such as Arctic Monkeys and Catfish and the Bottlemen, their sound blends gritty guitar riffs with thought-provoking lyricism, and When It Ends is a perfect showcase of this balance.
Despite a gentle introduction, the track quickly takes a heavier turn as the guitar riff kicks in, captivating listeners from the get-go. Powered by a steady bassline and dynamic drums, The Tusks have created an enticing song that seamlessly weaves together a range of musical layers. The lyricism is anthemic, highlighting themes of emotion and heartache in particular.
With a hint of The Strokes in their upcoming single, the band’s latest work focuses on music that feels both relatable and personal. The chorus is compelling and sincere, making When It Ends a track that’s easy to have on repeat.
The softer nature of the song’s opening and closing sections contrasts effectively with the bridge, which builds quickly and skilfully as every element of the band comes together. A punchy drum fill toward the end ties everything together, cementing the track’s strong energy. This sentiment is emphasised by The Tusks’ guitarist and co-writer, Dan Edwards, who says: “It’s by far our most collaborative track to date, and you can really hear all of our influences in there.”
When It Ends marks a turning point for The Tusks as they move away from the sound of their debut single, Will Your Thoughts Ever Come Home?. More mature in tone, it showcases the band’s growth and promises exciting things to come. This track signals a fresh start for the band, blending elements of Britpop and Indie Rock from the nineties and noughties to create a unique sound of their own.
Their latest live performance at Sidney & Matilda in Sheffield has seen them branching out further afield and finding inspiration in new audiences. Having already played some of Liverpool’s most iconic venues, notably The Cavern Club, The Tusks have honed their skills and are ready to make their mark in 2026, driven by the momentum of their new single When It Ends.
Follow The Tusks on Instagram @the.tusks for updates.
