Future of the Left are a rock band from Cardiff, Wales.
Formed in 2005, the band emerged from the ashes of cult Welsh noise-rock outfit Mclusky, with vocalist/guitarist Andrew Falkous and drummer Jack Egglestone joined by bassist Kelson Mathias. Known for their abrasive guitars, acerbic humour and fiercely intelligent lyrics, the band quickly established themselves as one of the most distinctive voices in modern noise rock.
Travels with Myself and Another (2009), shows off the band’s palette with sharper songwriting and a heavier use of synthesizers. Released by 4AD after extensive touring and festival appearances, the album earned strong critical praise and further established Future of the Left as one of the UK’s most inventive underground rock bands.
In 2012 they returned with The Plot Against Common Sense, a sprawling and ambitious third record featuring fifteen tracks and singles such as “Sheena Is a T-Shirt Salesman.” The album received widespread acclaim and showcased the band at their most expansive and chaotic.
The band then embraced independent, fan-funded releases. How to Stop Your Brain in an Accident (2013) was funded through PledgeMusic, reaching its goal within hours and released on their own Prescriptions label. The record continued their mix of razor-sharp satire and heavy noise-rock energy, preceded by the EP Love Songs for Our Husbands.
Across their catalogue, Future of the Left have built a reputation for combining blistering, angular rock with dark humour and socially biting commentary—cementing their place as one of the most singular bands to emerge from the UK’s post-hardcore underground’
Currently the band consists of Jack Egglestone (drums), Julia Ruzicka (bass) and Andrew Falkous (vocals, guitar) – there are also keyboards sometimes, but that looks weird in brackets. the touring line-up is completed by Ian Wilson of the band Art Brut, who has done more touring than the rest of us so is quicker at buffets.
“Sometimes people do power-stances when we play and it is heartening.”