'We catch a vibe in the room': How Leeds trio Gotts Street Park captured live studio magic for new album

Since emerging from the Leeds music scene, Gotts Street Park have built an enviable reputation for crafting warm, tape-saturated, soul-drenched grooves.

Having produced for heavyweights like Celeste, Kali Uchis, and Pip Millett - whose collaboration ‘Flowers’ remains a personal favourite - the trio of Tom Henry (keys), Josh Crocker (bass), and Joe Harris (guitar) are now preparing to release their latest album, Somewhere Between, on October 16.

For a group whose sound feels so effortlessly timeless, the secret lies in a refusal to overthink the process or rely on digital shortcuts.

While their debut album On the Inside was largely recorded at bassist Josh’s home setup, the new project marks a distinct evolution. The band branched out, tracking material live across multiple independent studios in Leeds and London.

"This one's been quite different because we've not been working out of one studio," Josh explains. "We’ve worked out of multiple different studios in Leeds and London, using different rooms, different instruments, and different equipment.

“It’s definitely informed the sound and inspired new ideas."

Despite moving between locations, the band maintained their strict requirement for capturing magic in the moment: playing together live in a single space.

"Certain studios wouldn't work for us because we play everything together in one room, pretty much exclusively," says Josh. "We need a good live space and good instruments. It’s really about getting together and catching a vibe in the room.

“That’s where the fun is for all of us with this project."

Taking ownership in an algorithmic age

In an era where musicians are increasingly expected to act as content creators, the trio have consciously chosen to focus on authenticity over social media trends or viral marketing.

"There’s a bit of a wake-up call this time around of what needs to be done outside of just making music," says Tom. "Taking some ownership over it keeps it authentic, and you feel like you're part of something and generally get better results.

“Letting things grow over time seems to be what works for us."

Josh adds that their organic approach has served them well from the beginning: "The success of the first record didn't come from any of those tactics - it was an organic, slow process of people discovering the music.

“We're fairly chilled about it, letting it sit there and letting it grow without expecting huge results overnight."

That relaxed, unhurried mindset extends to how they view listener habits.

Whether audiences choose to sit down with a turntable for an immersive listening session or simply play the record in the background while cooking, the band are content to let the music find its own place.

"Music, whatever function it serves, is cool," Josh says. "When writing, I just want it to feel very human. I hope it connects people with their humanity."

Keyboardist Tom notes that the new material also reflects their personal growth since their early days jamming together while studying in Leeds.

"This album feels a bit lighter and brighter to me," Tom adds. "It represents the growth of us all - growing up, having families, and expanding our horizons touring in different countries."

Returning home to Project House

Having recently returned from North American tour dates—including performances at the Newport and Montreal Jazz Festivals - Gotts Street Park are now looking forward to bringing their new material back to West Yorkshire.

The new album officially drops on October 16, across digital platforms, CD, and vinyl. Following the release, the band will embark on a UK tour, bringing their headline show home to Leeds on November 17 at Project House (tickets).

"It's the first time playing there actually, so it should be a really good one," says Tom. "We're really looking forward to it."