There is a distinct power in simplicity, and the latest offering from Leeds’ own Nick Cody & The Heartache proves that a quiet arrangement can carry the heaviest of messages. Set for release on 11 April 2025, via the collaborative powerhouse Green Eyed Records, ‘We are the Many’ is a striking acoustic single that positions itself firmly within the tradition of the great protest anthems.
The track serves as our first introduction to the upcoming album ‘Sweet Songs & Bitter Truth', and it wasted no time in establishing the "bitter truth" side of that equation. The song is built upon a gorgeous, sparse foundation where Harry Orme’s expressive acoustic guitar intertwines with the haunting, elegant cello work of Liz Hanks. It is a sonic pairing that feels both intimate and expansive, providing a lush bed for a narrative that is far from comfortable.
Lyrically, Cody is in fine form, leaning into his reputation for sharp social commentary. Inspired by global protests and the recurring theme of systemic accountability, the track focuses on the divide between the collective and the powerful elite. “We are the many, you are the few, shame on you” acts as a rhythmic anchor—a refrain that is as much a chant as it is a melody. Nick’s lead vocals carry a weathered, grounded authority, while Agi’s vocal harmonies cascade over the top, adding a necessary lightness that prevents the track’s gravity from becoming overbearing.
The balance here is key. While the message is scathing, the execution is beautiful. It manages to "spark the brain and make you want to tap your feet" simultaneously, fulfilling Cody’s long-standing creative mission. Having earned nods from the likes of Jon Gomm and Chris Catalyst, Cody’s craft is clearly refined, yet ‘We are the Many’ feels urgent and unpolished in the best possible way. It is a song that demands a response, reminding us that while power may be concentrated, the voice of the multitude remains a formidable force. As the first taste of the new record, it sets a high bar for the "bitter truths" yet to come.
You can pre-save the new single on all your favourite streaming platforms, and to keep up with Nick Cody & The Heartache’s latest updates, head to their website.
