INTRODUCING: NORY-J

British alt-pop artist Nory-J returns with Weekend With Benny, a vibrant, introspective indie-pop release that captures the emotional push-and-pull of modern creative life. Off the back of growing radio support, editorial playlist success and a string of live shows, the track blends shimmering production with honest storytelling—drawing influence from the likes of The 1975, Dayglow and Tame Impala.

With momentum building into 2026, and a clear shift towards a more agile, singles-driven release strategy, Nory-J continues to carve out a distinctive lane—balancing ambition, vulnerability and sharp musicality.

Your new single ‘Weekend With Benny’ blends alt-pop with indie influences — what was the spark behind the track and the story you wanted to tell with it?

I’m in an awkward place at the moment, balancing day jobs that haven’t been going my way and trying to keep up in a rather chaotic world and Music industry. Imposter syndrome in the crazy game of original music is real, and it can be nice to just let loose with your crew every now and again. I have a group of mates I went to university with in Bristol called Henry, Sam, Eoin, Matt and of course Ben (Benny) who really make the stressful months worthwhile. The song is an anthem for the exhausted so to speak, and is heavily inspired by Daydreamers, the 1975, Kid Bloom and other indie pop influences.

You’ve been gaining traction with playlist placements and BBC Introducing support — how has that momentum shaped your confidence and approach to releasing new music?

What I’ve realised is that releasing songs in bulk through EPs and Albums is not as successful as it used to be. You are much better off riding the wave through singles, social media attention and press releases then your are one big bulk wave of events. I’ve been so lucky to have these little wins through Co-Op Radio, BBC and Apple Music editorials, but my big three still remain Glastonbury, Radio 1 and Spotify Editorials so I can’t rest until they’ve all been conquered!

This single sees you working with producer Rhys Fletcher for the first time. What did he bring to the process, and how did that collaboration influence the final sound?

Rhys was someone I found through his work with Harry Marshall, one of my favourite artists of the last few years and national musician friend. I heard the way Harry’s songs blend synths with Guitar and intimate vocals in a way I’ve always struggled recreating from a production standpoint and from Mix 1, Rhys brought the entire track alive. Every nuanced compositional technique I included was perfectly blended along with the insane percussion from Guy Courtie to create exactly what I needed. I think he’s someone I need to work with more in the future.

Your music has been described as a ‘sonic voyage through the British indie dreamland’. How would you describe your sound in your own words, and who were the key influences behind ‘Weekend With Benny’?

When I meet the general public at my shows and events I usually keep my sound short and sweet by calling it ‘pop songs with Jazz Chords’, but I think people who consume any music from outside the charts know this is the case with most other songs. I think the Nory-J sound is a blend of careful hooks, indirect lyrics, story telling and complex interwoven instrumentation that’s all come from the same brain. The project is a creative outlet for me to write as many different styles as possible all under one roof. The track is indie pop, bedroom pop, dance, electronic and dream pop music all cross-pollinating into one through influences of Tame Impala, The 1975, Daydreamers, Dayglow, Vansire and a lot of bedroom music from lockdown.

With festival appearances, radio support and upcoming live shows building momentum, what can fans expect next from you in 2026?

Each year I say I’m going to conquer those big three and the stepping stones to get there in 2026 include much crisper and catchier music, done as a string of singles throughout the year, a tour with my band and a more active presence through Instagram Reels. I have two more songs in the pipeline that are being mastered currently, and 3 more that I plan on recording over Easter.