Introducing the Stevenage-based duo of Sam and Gabrielle, who have combined forces as Highlands. What started as chemistry on long walks and late-night dreaming over video calls soon turned into songwriting sketches and early demos. By February 2025, the pair took their biggest step forward by transforming some of those rough recordings into fully fledged singles. Fast-forward to today in 2026 and Highlands are continuing their musical journey with the release of ‘As If A Kiss’, the precursor to their forthcoming sophomore EP.
In a familiar sonic wheelhouse of Pinegrove, Dizzy and Boniface, this folk-tinged track leans into an expansive-yet-intimate sound that draws out all those heavy, heart-led emotions. Through their songwriting, Highlands hone in on one of those pivotal life moments where once choice will completely change your trajectory. The track truly evokes a cinematic scene where the freshly heartbroken protagonist’s bags are packed and loaded into the car; they’re ready to go and yet they draw out the final goodbye. We’ve all been there, delaying the inevitable, reluctant to close the last chapter, because we know it means the end.
This provocative narrative is propelled by the striking clarity of the duo’s harmonies, which swoon together over an urgent rhythm, warm piano keys and insistent indie-rock guitars. It’s impossibly catchy, with soaring lines like “kiss me in the road” tugging on those heart strings. It really is just good honest songwriting that touches on pop, rock and folk traditions while feeling entirely fresh. That authentic feeling is no doubt due to Sam and Gabrielle‘s undeniable connection.
‘As If A Kiss’ is an unmissable gateway into Highlands‘ world and we can’t wait to hear the emotionally-charged magic they treat us to next.
You can listen to ‘As If A Kiss’ in our Indie Rockers playlist.
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