Problem Patterns celebrate Belfast with new single "I Think You Should Leave"

News

28 Jun

Belfast-based DIY feminist queerpunk quartet Problem Patterns have released their latest single, "I Think You Should Leave," via Alcopop! Records. The new track, which is a love letter to their hometown, arrives ahead of their summer performances at major festivals, including Glastonbury, Stendahl, 2000 Trees, TRUCK, and Belsonic.

The inspiration for "I Think You Should Leave" came from a dismissive comment made by a journalist about Northern Ireland, asking the band why they didn’t just leave.

The band explains:

"He treated it like a scary, horrible place to be from. We could do nothing but laugh because, really, think about how rude that is to say. We love being a Belfast band and we want to embrace our rich history and educate people and give a message of hope."

The song reflects the band's commitment to staying in Belfast and creating positive change in their community.

The band went on to say:

"During the Troubles, Ciara, Beth, and Bev would never have met, and that makes us so grateful to stand up beside each other now and create music together when such a short time ago, that would’ve been unimaginable. Everywhere has its problems, but this is our home."

Musically, the band pays homage to Northern Irish punk legends like Stiff Little Fingers and The Undertones, with guitarist Bev nodding to the "Alternative Ulster" riff in her solo. Each band member contributed their perspectives to the song, penning their own lyrics for each section.

Ciara:

“I wanted to capture the complex feelings that come with being from Northern Ireland and having a dual nationality. The phrase ‘ní neart go cur le chéile’ means ‘there’s no strength without unity.’ I wanted to acknowledge my background and embrace other cultures.”

Alanah:

“My verse is about moving to Belfast and finding a genuine sense of community here. The last line alludes to words written by Lyra McKee, expressing hope for a better future.”

Beth:

“My verse references friends who have left Belfast for better opportunities. Our politicians rely on sectarianism and tribalism to keep communities segregated. It’s time for change.”

Bev:

“I love the people and places here. My verse is dedicated to the friends I’ve made growing up in Ballymena and the new friends I’ve made while fighting to make things better here.”

Problem Patterns are known for their energetic and inclusive punk music. Formed in Belfast in 2018, the band consists of Alanah, Bethany, Bev, and Ciara (aka ABBA). They swap roles and instruments to express their anger and hope, creating a unique genre they call PUNK. They have played with acts like Le Tigre, Bob Vylan, and Fight Like Apes, and have been praised by Kathleen Hanna and Henry Rollins.

Their debut single, "Allegedly," was released within their first month together, followed by their debut EP, Good For You, Aren’t You Great?, in July 2019. Their music has received significant radio play, including a BBC 6music Session and playlist support from various stations.

Watch the video for “I Think You Should Leave”: