Set the Uber to Eden: Isla Rico Just Dropped Your Summer Soundtrack

Words & Review: Grace Taylor

Indie-pop trio Isla Rico are back just in time for summer with their new EP, Uber Set to Eden. A radiant, feel good follow up to 2023’s Eternal Optimist. Building on their reputation for bright melodies, catchy choruses, and a sunshine-soaked outlook, this new collection reaffirms their place in the next wave of UK indie-pop.

Made up of Cal Richards (vocals, guitar), Jasper Whitehead (lead guitar, keys), and Harvey Rafferty (guitar, vocals), Isla Rico kick things off with New Religion. A joyous, synth-tinged blend of playful guitar riffs and irresistible hooks. It's an instant mood-lifter, the kind of song you’ll be singing along to before the first chorus ends. It perfectly captures the trio’s signature sound: vibrant indie with a funky, carefree twist.

Next up is Wavelength, a 2024 single that leans into the more introspective side of the band’s writing. Mellow yet uplifting, the track urges listeners to let go of the uncontrollable and lean into life’s natural rhythms. With its easy-going flow and subtle production flourishes, it fits effortlessly into any golden hour playlist.

Waiting Room is indie at its finest, uplifting, jangly guitar, and catchy hooks. Pointed lyrics about the twenty-something limbo, feeling like you’re stuck waiting for your life to begin, with the painful awareness that you’re using up valuable time here. It’s a track that balances existential angst with an infectious sense of momentum and hope.

Rounding out the EP are two live versions of Lost on You and the opener New Religion, a nod to the band’s live roots and their reputation for delivering huge energy on stage. Stripped of polish but full of raw intent, the live tracks capture Isla Rico’s chemistry and charisma in full force.

With a string of festival appearances lined up over the summer, and headline shows in London and Manchester this autumn, Isla Rico’s upward momentum shows no sign of slowing.