Manchester-based band The Hearse is back with a striking new single, “One from One Hundred,” was released on February 28, 2025. Rooted in post-punk, new wave, and punk influences, the track explores themes of manipulation—both in the media and personal relationships—while embracing individuality and defiance. Drawing inspiration from Joy Division, The Clash, Blondie, and more, The Hearse continues to carve out a distinct identity with their raw, DIY approach to music.
Lead vocalist Jess Armer wrote the song in 2023, channeling personal struggles and global tensions into its powerful lyrics. Despite lineup changes and a lengthy recording process at Salford University, the band remained committed to crafting a sound that balances nostalgia with modern energy.
With a blend of biting social commentary, unapologetic honesty, and a love for 70s and 80s punk aesthetics, “One from One Hundred” isn’t just a song—it’s a statement. In this interview, The Hearse discusses their creative process, influences, and the challenges of bringing this track to life.
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What inspired you to create “One from One Hundred”? Is there a specific story or meaning behind the title?
– The title? I just thought it sounded cool, really. I wish I could provide a more thought provoking answer but that’s just about it. It’s sort of like saying “One in a million” except in more of an individualistic way.
How would you describe the sound and style of “One from One Hundred” to someone who hasn’t heard your music before?
Looks like punk, smells like punk, might be punk. No, it’s very 70’s / 80’s inspired like most of our music.
Did you approach the creative process for this single differently than your previous work as The Hearse?
For once our current lineup actually played on the track. It was good too as everyone was giving great input. Obviously compared to the previous tracks, it’s different musicians, but you can tell our tone has shifted on this song and who’s put input where.
The name “The Hearse” evokes certain imagery. How does your artist name connect to your musical identity and the themes in “One from One Hundred”?
We’re all deadbeats… I think it all sounds rather cool.
Were there any particular musical influences that shaped the sound of this track?
As I mentioned previously 70’s and 80’s (and 90’s) music is our main point of reference. Bands in particular like The Damned and The Clash were the main influence this time around. There was a bit of Arctic Monkeys thrown into the mix too, which I didn’t really get at first but I hear now.
Can you share any interesting stories or challenges from the recording sessions for “One from One Hundred”?
We initially began recording in pretty early 2024, if I’m not mistaken. We went through lineup changes and al kinds of stuff in the meantime so we just never got round to finishing it and worked on other songs, so the process did take almost a year. A lot of the recording was done a couple weeks before the song was mixed / mastered / released.
It’s good to set a deadline because otherwise you get nothing done. Then again even with a deadline I sometimes just don’t do stuff. I usually forget.
Is there a particular lyric or musical moment in the single that holds special significance for you?
The main riff probably. I wrote that so long ago and it never fit with anything. Then I started to write a song about some poseurs I didn’t like and I found it worked well with that. The lyrics weren’t too dissimilar from how they are now in the chorus. Then, stuff started happening to me and I wasn’t happy and it felt like the topic had to change to match the song. But the riff is the main focal point of the song which it’s all built around.
I’m a terrible lead guitarist so I had to write something easy enough for myself to play as well…
How does “One from One Hundred” fit into your broader artistic vision?
I suppose it shows more of our punk influences and variety of sounds we can produce. Our last single was a total shift from this one and even our first one, so I think it’s just us showing we’re not afraid to try anything. We’re a very eclectic band with all kinds of influences, but sometimes being too inconsistent in genres can confuse your audience, so in trying to appeal to everyone it’s kind of doing the opposite.
Did you collaborate with any producers or other artists on this track? If so, how did that partnership influence the final product?
My friend Matt who lives in Australia mastered (or should I say Mattstered) the track. Everything else was done by myself and Henry. My friend Kylie in America worked closely with me in designing the cover.
What emotions or ideas were you hoping to convey through “One from One Hundred”?
This is a difficult question. People can interpret it how they want, but I’d like to at least get the message across that it’s okay to be angry, it’s okay to want change and to change, and it’s okay to not fit in. You know, anger is an energy, and all that. I just don’t want to be perceived the wrong way like I’m promoting manipulation or something like most political leaders these days.
Has your approach to songwriting evolved since you began your journey as The Hearse?
I mean I’ve been writing songs for as long as I can remember, but since forming The Hearse a lot has happened, there’s been lots of changes. Sometimes I don’t find it challenging writing songs, it’s too easy.
But other times it’s the hardest thing going. I get burnt out really easily and I struggle great deals with anxiety and OCD so my mind is constantly occupied. I don’t know which I do first or lyrics or melody, just whatever pops in my head first. I also get ill all the time so most of my time is spent composing.
What do you hope listeners take away from this single?
Please don’t take away our single, we spent ages on that.
Are you planning any visual components to accompany “One from One Hundred,” such as a music video?
Yes, and I’m apparently in charge of it so wish me luck.
How has the audience response been to the single so far?
It’s been really great, thank you to everyone who’s listened.
What’s next for The Hearse following this release? Are you working on more singles or perhaps a larger project?
Your guess is as good as mine. Stay tuned and find out!
