Soft Play, formerly known as Slaves, is an innovative English punk rock duo formed in 2012 by Isaac Holman and Laurie Vincent in Royal Tunbridge Wells. The duo emerged from the challenges of recruiting additional band members, leading them to share songwriting duties and develop a unique sound that resonated with audiences. Their debut EP, “Sugar Coated Bitter Truth,” released in 2012 under Boss Tuneage Records, marked the beginning of their professional journey, showcasing their raw energy and distinctive style.

In 2014, Soft Play gained significant traction with their first single, “Where’s Your Car Debbie?” released by Fonthill Records. Their signing with Virgin EMI soon followed, leading to the release of their first single under the label, “Hey,” in November 2014. The band’s exposure skyrocketed when their track “The Hunter” was featured on the Sky One series “You, Me and the Apocalypse,” and they made notable appearances on platforms like Later… with Jools Holland, earning a nomination for the BBC’s Sound of 2015.

The duo’s debut album, “Are You Satisfied?” released in June 2015, reached No. 8 on the UK Albums Chart and was nominated for the prestigious Mercury Music Prize. Their subsequent albums, including “Take Control” and “Acts of Fear and Love,” further solidified their place in the punk rock scene, with both albums achieving impressive chart positions and critical acclaim.

In December 2022, the duo rebranded as Soft Play, reflecting their growth and evolution as artists. Their fourth studio album, “Heavy Jelly,” is set to release in July 2024, promising to deliver their signature sound while exploring new creative directions. With a strong foundation of influences and a commitment to their craft, Soft Play continues to inspire and engage audiences worldwide.