The Gilhoolys – False Flag (2026)
Originally formed about three decades ago, indie group The Gilhoolys had the world at their feet (metaphorically, of course), were strutting their stuff, and had growing opportunities to take the US and possibly Europe by storm. However, as frontman Paul Devlin noted in our recent interview, “it created a dilemma for the band members”, which led to a long hiatus. He further noted that “the return came back after one of the original band members threw an open invite out to the band, and we had a chat and agreed to do a rehearsal… what happened next is now history.”
So, skipping ahead from 2020’s reformation to 2025’s The Truth Is Not Your Enemy, The Gilhoolys quickly began turning heads internationally with rave reviews, a growing following, and chart-topping singles. Today we step into 2026 with The Ghilhoolys’ ‘False Flag’.
Produced and recorded by Andy Anderson at Main St Studios, the Scottish group brings the sound of yesteryear’s indie-rock to modern-day audiences. Mature and polished, heavy drums keep time with an almost anchoring quality. Shimmers of keyboards glitter beneath the engaging bass and rhythmic lead guitar. For me, the song not only captures the heart of old-school rock, but also offers the smooth harmony and gentle flow of an easy-on-the-ears but incredibly powerful single.
Melodically, ‘False Flag’ is a song I could easily have on repeat; yet, it is the theme that adds weight to an already full-bodied song. A protest song of sorts, the gentle tune captures the heart of a principle and desire for change, but in a way that isn’t too outlandish or crashing. Calm but getting the point across, The Gilhoolys explain:
“[‘False Flag’ is a] reflection on today’s issues with governments and the sheer scale of corruption and false wars without consequence… the treatment of the public that elected officials were meant to protect… I think music is a conduit for rejection of oppression and acts against humanity.”
Find out more about The Gilhoolys on their Facebook, X, Instagram, YouTube and Spotify.
This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustainablecurator
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