Southend-on-Sea’s four-piece band, The Trusted, returns with a powerful new single, “The Lightning,” an electrifying exploration of ego, self-worth, and the potential within us all. Frontman Tom Cunningham describes the track as a bold statement on unleashing inner greatness, urging listeners to embrace their own “bolt of lightning.”
“The Lightning” is a genre-defying track that showcases The Trusted’s ever-evolving sound. The band artfully combines sparse, soulful electronica in the verses, setting a moody, introspective tone before bursting into infectious, anthemic choruses. The driving beats and lush production build a sonic landscape that feels larger than life, urging listeners to experience the song on a grand scale. The mix of influences is both modern and timeless, with early and late Peter Gabriel meeting the electronic sensibilities of LCD Soundsystem, creating a unique fusion that sets The Trusted apart in today’s indie-pop and alt-rock scene.
Lyrically, the song’s message resonates with an urgency that feels especially relevant today. “The Lightning” serves as a reminder that each of us holds within us a spark of brilliance—a potential that is too often stifled by self-doubt or societal pressures. The chorus, with its anthemic repetition, is a rallying cry to break free of those constraints and let our light shine: “I’ll climb the highest mountain, I’ll swim the widest sea, I’ll walk from coast to coast, and I’ll do it all for free.” It’s an empowering and liberating message that speaks to the universal human experience of wanting to unleash one’s true potential.
This is not the first time The Trusted have delivered thought-provoking material. The band’s previous single, “Self Destruct,” earned over 70,000 streams in just three months and saw the group expanding their fanbase across the globe, shipping merchandise as far as the USA, Hong Kong, and Italy. Their unique ability to craft compelling, emotionally resonant songs has earned them praise from prominent music outlets like Clash Magazine, Gigslutz, EarMilk, and The American Songwriter. With “The Lightning,” they are once again poised to captivate their ever-growing audience.
The Trusted’s evolution as a band is rooted in their ability to blend influences from a wide array of genres and artists. Formed during their school years, the band bonded over a shared passion for strong melodies and atmospheric pop music. Their sound, however, is far from conventional. Drawing from iconic British rock acts like Catfish and the Bottlemen and The 1975, as well as legendary new-wave pioneers like The Clash and Elvis Costello, The Trusted craft a sound that is both fresh and steeped in tradition. Their innovative approach to songwriting has not gone unnoticed; the band has received airplay on BBC Radio One, been spotlighted by BBC Introducing as an artist to watch, and performed at international events, including two successful tours in Italy in 2018 and 2019.
The Trusted are no strangers to the stage either, with over 300 live shows under their belt, supporting acts like MILK, The Rifles, and BILK. Their high-energy performances and compelling stage presence have earned them a loyal following, and their latest single is sure to be a crowd favorite. The band’s previous hit “Millennium” received over 500,000 streams on TikTok, and with the release of “The Lightning,” they are poised to continue their upward trajectory.
What makes The Trusted truly special is their ability to blend introspective, meaningful lyrics with music that is equally captivating and accessible. They have mastered the art of creating songs that are not only sonically impressive but also deeply relatable, offering listeners a chance to connect with the music on a personal level. “The Lightning” is a perfect example of this—its message of self-worth and empowerment strikes a chord with anyone who has ever doubted their own potential, while its infectious melodies ensure it will be on repeat for listeners around the world.
With their growing global fanbase, critical acclaim, and undeniable talent, The Trusted are carving out their place as one of the most exciting bands in the modern indie-pop scene. “The Lightning” is not just another single; it’s a statement of intent—a bold declaration that The Trusted are here to stay, and they are only getting started. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to their music, “The Lightning” is a track you won’t want to miss. It’s a reminder that we all have greatness within us, and sometimes, all it takes is a spark to set it free.
