Listen to “Get Wet” by Your Mate’s Ex
Discovering fresh names across my favourite realms of indie, pop and electronic music has been a genuine joy lately. Where each new discovery unquestionably builds an overall sense that the wider musical landscape is not only thriving, but evolving in ways that feel exciting and unexpected. Yet amid all this exploration, I realised I’d unintentionally neglected one corner of my usual listening habits. This being, the ever-vibrant dance-pop arena. And above all, with 2025 shining a deserved spotlight on boundary-pushers like BRITs Critics’ Choice shortlisted artist Rose Gray. It felt like the perfect moment to seek out the next act ready to energise the genre.
That search quickly led me to Manchester’s rising project Your Mate’s Ex (YMEX). And they immediately felt like the missing piece.
From their earliest releases, YMEX have shown a deliberate commitment to standing apart from the crowd. Rather than simply slip into existing trends, their sound leans confidently into a hybrid identity. Merging attitude, nostalgia and an unmistakable dancefloor pulse. Moreover, the origin story, particularly, fits the aesthetic perfectly. A chance 4 a.m. encounter in the early 2020s between house DJ Josh and the enigmatic Joey. What could have amounted to a fleeting late-night conversation ultimately sparked a creative partnership. One rooted in retro-futuristic electro, gritty bloghouse spirit, muted punk-infused vocals and the glossy hedonism of classic Hed Kandi.
As they gear up for their debut EP, YMEX close out 2025 with their most infectious release yet: “Get Wet.” Immediately, the track pulses with trance and rave-like energy, the type that grabs your attention and refuses to let go. Its hook — “get wet, reset, do it again” — is built for communal moments. The kind shouted back at full volume in a packed room on the cusp of midnight. Exhibiting significant amounts of bold vibrancy and cheekiness. In fact, exactly the sort of dance-pop ignition switch that promises to soundtrack New Year’s Eve chaos across the country.
Therefore, with momentum escalating at a pace that’s impossible to ignore. This subsequently means, Your Mate’s Ex is positioning themselves not just as another new act. Yet, furthermore, as the catalyst for the night you don’t want to miss. Likewise, if dance-pop is heading into a new era of personality, grit and euphoria. YMEX are already standing at the front of it, with lights flashing, bass thumping, ready to lead the charge.
Connect with Your Mates Ex
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourmates_ex/
