Wigan band The Lilacs have released a 'proper summer tune' ahead of their debut album
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Wigan band The Lilacs are back with another taste of their highly anticipated debut album.
They released their new single What's The Worst That Can Happen? via Manchester's renowned independent label Scruff of the Neck.
It is the third song to be released from their upcoming debut album Keeping Up With The Joneses, following Miss Behavin’ and Girl Behind The Bar.
Frontman Ollie Anglesea said: “What’s The Worst That Can Happen? is the third single off our debut album and is probably as ‘poppy’ as the record gets. It’s a proper summer tune, heavily inspired by the feel-good, driving energy of tracks like Stereophonics’ Have A Nice Day. We wanted something you could roll the windows down to.”
The four-piece shot the music video for What’s The Worst That Can Happen? in Wigan town centre, taking in The Berkeley Pub, Uncle Joe's mint balls factory, a moving bus and Mesnes Park.
It will be available on Wednesday on the band’s YouTube channel.
What's The Worst That Can Happen? was produced by Joe Cross and is one of eight new tracks on the album, which is completed by fresh recordings of fan favourites and live staples Grace and Vicarage Road.
Formed by vocalist Ollie and guitarist Sam Birchall, The Lilacs are completed by Matt Johnson (bass) and Dave Gomersall (drums).
They debuted early in 2019 with Vicarage Road and have been building a following of dedicated fans ever since, winning over more with single Grace in 2023 and scoring a top 10 on the Independent Albums Chart with The 395 (To Forever) EP in 2025.
Known for their energetic live performances, they have played shows with fellow borough bands The Lottery Winners and The Lathums and hit countless festivals.
They have been rewarded with ever-bigger headline shows, including a sold-out 2,700-capacity headline show in Manchester.
The band’s run of live shows continues this summer following their recent performance at Rock For People in the Czech Republic, with Leeds Fest among the upcoming dates.
The Lilacs will make their debut at Leeds Festival as well as hitting Latitude, Tramlines and Kendal Calling.
Next year they are set to hit the road on their biggest headline tour to date and will play venues including Manchester’s O2 Victoria Warehouse.