Interview W/ Ist Ist - No Fat, No Compromise
- Helen Craven
- 14 minutes ago
- 3 min read
Article by Helen Craven
IST IST
Since forming in Manchester in late 2014, IST IST have grown from a raw three‑piece into one of the most resilient and self‑driven bands in the UK post‑punk landscape. Comprising Adam Houghton (vocals, guitar), Andy Keating (bass), Joel Kay (drums), and Mat Peters (keys, guitar), the band have carved out a reputation built on independence, discipline, and an incredible work ethic.
The New Album: Dagger
Their fifth studio album, Dagger (released in February), is the band’s most distilled and self-assured statement yet. Bassist Andy Keating calls it their favourite record to date, explaining that it captures their strengths with more clarity and conviction than anything before it.
Where its predecessor Light a Bigger Fire carried a deliberately “glossier” production aimed at broader appeal, Dagger strips away the sheen and leans fully into authenticity.
“It feels more true to us,” Keating says. “If you write an album for yourself, audiences take to it more because they can see you believe in it.”
The record is intentionally lean. “The songs do what they do,” he adds. “There isn’t any added fat that didn’t need to be there.”
One track, Ambition, almost didn’t survive the process. Keating recalls it being “like pulling teeth” until a simple realisation changed everything: it was too slow. A five‑or‑six BPM increase and the removal of unnecessary ‘niceties (including a string section) revealed the song’s core. It’s a perfect example of the band’s current philosophy: less is more, and honesty wins.
On the Road: The Current Tour
IST IST have now embarked on their latest tour, delivering the high‑intensity performances that have become their trademark. UK dates include Newcastle, Glasgow, Sheffield, and London, alongside European shows across Germany and the Netherlands.
For their major Manchester Albert Hall show, the band made the unusual decision to lock in the setlist months in advance partly for technical reasons (lighting and filming), and partly because they’re releasing a t‑shirt featuring the full setlist. Their merch sells fast.
Historically, they’d decide the running order in the van on the way to the venue, but these days they’re increasingly focused on the “dynamics and flow” of the show to ensure a polished, professional experience.
Fans can expect a balance of new material and older favourites. With five albums behind them, the band are committed to honouring their back catalogue:
“The album with the most songs played will be the new one,” Keating says, “but you’ll still get a good amount from the other releases.”
Manchester Roots and Influences
Growing up in Manchester in the early 2000s meant being steeped in the city’s musical DNA – the likes of New Order, The Smiths, Joy Division. But IST IST’s influences stretch further, reaching into the New York indie boom of the same era: The Killers, and TV on the Radio.
Despite the range, their writing process is anchored in one thing: hooks.
“We’re all drawn to something hook‑based,” Keating explains. “Whether it’s a memorable drum beat, a bass line, or a key line.”
The Business of Being IST IST
What truly sets ISTIST apart is their pragmatic, almost entrepreneurial approach to the industry. Going full time in 2023 and 2024 meant leaving behind corporate careers and embracing what Keating describes as a “90% business, 10% party” reality.
Their guiding principle is simple:
“Our main aim, honestly, is not going back to work.”
Every decision from merch pricing to tour routing is filtered through that lens. They’ve always had a “quality filter,” refusing gigs or deals that don’t make artistic or financial sense.
Keating is refreshingly grounded about their trajectory. There’s no obsession with overnight success - just steady, sustainable growth.
“It’s about doing a job. Doing your day job with your mates on stage, living a dream a lot of people can only have.”
A Band Going from Strength to Strength
IST IST already have a loyal following, and Dagger is poised to expand it even further. If you haven’t caught them yet, find a date, grab a ticket, and experience a band who are not only hitting their stride - they’re accelerating.
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