There is a distinct, resonant magic in bands that manage to capture the glorious simplicity of the past while sounding undeniably fresh and essential for the present moment. Defined By, hailing from the combined creative energy of Lancaster and Preston, has mastered this delicate balance. With the release of their latest single, Gratitude, on November 14, 2025, the band delivers what can only be described as a modern throwback to the Guitar Band paradise, cementing their status as masters of the melodic revival.
Defined By’s signature sound is a meticulously crafted blend of the 90s and 00s indie guitar sounds that defined a generation, fused seamlessly with the sharp, clean focus of modern production. This combination is precisely what enables them to formulate the perfect blend of modern classics, appealing simultaneously to nostalgic listeners and to those seeking the next great guitar-driven anthem in the current music landscape. Their sound is both familiar and excitingly new.
The band’s creative engine is driven by the chief songwriting duo of Mike Adamson and Lee Egerton. Their partnership has fueled a period of intense momentum, allowing the band to achieve significant milestones on the regional stage. Defined By successfully headlined the Ferret in 2025, a crucial venue for emerging UK talent. They have also secured enviable support slots for established bands such as the Florentenes and Pendant, demonstrating their rising stature in the scene.
The hype surrounding Defined By began to dramatically rise throughout 2024 with the strategic release of two key singles. Tracks such as God’s No Help and Monopoly both successfully garnered vast attention, establishing the band’s thematic depth and melodic accessibility early in their career. This initial success laid the groundwork for their current single and their aggressive move toward broader recognition, proving their ability to capture an audience’s ear.
Their momentum continued to build significantly into the latter half of 2025. The band’s single Blue Tonic hit Number 26 on Future Hits Radio’s Top 40 in September 2025, a clear and crucial indication that their sound is resonating beyond their local scene and breaking into wider, curated radio platforms. This achievement validates their songwriting approach and positions them as a band ready to transition from regional favorites to national contenders on the indie circuit.
The new single, Gratitude, is likely a track that leverages all of the band’s established strengths. It is built around punchy, memorable guitar lines and the strong, emotionally clear vocals that characterize the best of 90s indie. The theme of gratitude suggests a reflective, positive message, perhaps using the infectious energy of their sound to express appreciation for the journey and the success they have achieved through sheer hard work and dedication to their craft.
With local radio stations actively beginning to champion Defined By, the band is quickly approaching the tipping point where national recognition becomes inevitable. This organic support from the ground up is the most authentic sign of a band’s coming breakthrough. Adding to this excitement is the fact that a lucrative EP is already in the works, promising an even newer sound being developed by the duo, ensuring that their current momentum will not be wasted.
Defined By’s commitment to evolving their sound while maintaining their core 90s and 00s indie guitar identity is why they are positioned for longevity. They are offering music that satisfies a deep-seated desire for melodic, guitar-driven rock while sounding totally relevant for a new generation. It won’t be long before the music industry hears new music from them again, and soon, you will hear their anthems everywhere.
