34. Mary in the Junkyard
Bold New Voices of British Music
Every so often, a band arrives that feels less like a debut and more like a revelation. Mary in the Junkyard are one of those rare acts. Emerging from South London’s fertile underground, the trio have rapidly marked themselves out as one of the most exciting and imaginative new groups in British music. With their distinctive sound, fearless lyrics, and raw stage presence, they are already carving out a reputation that belies their youth.
The band is fronted by the magnetic Clari Freeman-Taylor on vocals and guitar, whose songwriting blends intimacy with ferocity. Alongside her, the equally talented Saya Barbaglia (bass) and David Addison (violin and guitar) bring layers of texture and energy that make the group’s sound impossible to pin down. This unique instrumentation is central to their identity: while many bands lean on standard rock setups, Mary in the Junkyard weave violin into their sonic fabric, creating songs that feel both urgent and otherworldly.
Their name — half playfully whimsical, half evocatively mysterious — mirrors their music: eclectic, unpredictable, and rich with atmosphere. Early singles like Tuesday and Ghost drew attention for their angular riffs, lyrical bite, and an intensity that caught critics and fans alike by surprise. BBC Radio 6 Music and DIY publications were quick to champion them, hailing the band as ones to watch. In a scene brimming with fresh voices, Mary in the Junkyard managed to stand out almost instantly.
On stage, the trio are nothing short of electric. Their live sets capture the raw energy of punk, the emotional honesty of indie, and the unpredictability of experimental music. Crowds are drawn in by the sheer chemistry between the members, each performance feeling like an act of communal catharsis. The band’s rise through London’s grassroots venues has already built them a loyal following, and festival slots have only cemented their reputation as a group destined for bigger stages.
What sets Mary in the Junkyard apart is not just their sound, but their spirit. There is a palpable sense of freedom in their music — a willingness to defy genre, to embrace vulnerability, and to create art on their own terms. They channel the restlessness of youth and the urgency of our times, giving voice to feelings of frustration, longing, and rebellion that resonate deeply with audiences.
Though still in the early stages of their career, Mary in the Junkyard represent the best of what British music can offer: originality, authenticity, and the promise of evolution. They are not simply following trends but setting their own course, adding something genuinely fresh to the nation’s rich musical landscape.
As they continue to grow, one thing is already clear: Mary in the Junkyard are more than just a new band. They are a bold statement of creativity, energy, and intent. Their story is only beginning, but it carries the unmistakable spark of something truly special.

