The return of The Would-Be-Goods is one of the best news stories in indie of late. Jessica Griffin and crew have offered up another taste of their upcoming new record on the superb Skep Wax imprint. And "Dr. Love" is a delight, obviously.
"Dr. Love" progresses in a gently forceful way, with Jessica Griffin's assured vocals carrying this into the same sort of territory that the best material from this outfit mapped out years ago. The mournful vibe of the track is kept in check by a spry, down-tempo hook. This is, like classic Would-Be-Goods stuff, elegantly lovely, and smartly rendered. The Would-Be-Goods in 2026 are Jessica Griffin with Peter Momtchiloff (Heavenly, Talulah Gosh) on guitar, Debbie Greensmith (Thee Headcoatees and many others) on drums, and Andy Warren (The Monochrome Set, Adam and the Ants) on bass. The video was edited by Ian Button (Swansea Sound).
"Dr. Love" by The Would-Be-Goods is out now. Tears Before Bedtime will be out on February 13. Details via Skep Wax.
The Would-Be-Goods are playing at the Water Rats in London with Helen McCookerybook, and Railcard (Rachel Love from Dolly Mixture) on February 21, 2026. Details and tickets are here.
[Photo: Ian Greensmith]