Vona Vella Unveils New Single “Carnival” Ahead of Album Release

Nottingham-based band Vona Vella has launched their latest single, “Carnival,” a track that showcases their evolution from a dreamy indie-pop duo to a robust five-piece ensemble. The song, set to be released on October 22, features a distinctive 5/4 time signature that reflects its themes of anxiety and overstimulation, mirroring the band’s own musical journey.

Vona Vella was formed by couple Izzy Davis and Dan Cunningham during their time at college in Loughborough. Initially an indie-pop duo, they gained significant attention after a £10 advertising boost on Instagram for their early song “Sun.” This led to a remix by Ross Godfrey of the band Morcheeba, resulting in a European tour and a record deal with Strap Originals, the label founded by Pete Doherty.

“Carnival” and Upcoming Album

The single “Carnival” is the third track from their upcoming second album, also titled *Carnival*, which is scheduled for release in February 2026. The accompanying music video, shot at Nottingham’s iconic Goose Fair by long-time collaborator Roger Sargent, adds a visual layer to the song’s exploration of life’s chaotic moments. The band has also secured a high-profile sync with the basketball video game NBA2K26, generating considerable excitement among fans.

The shift from a duo to a full-fledged band occurred as Vona Vella began securing larger support slots. They played at L’Olympia in Paris, a venue with a capacity of 3,000, which fueled their desire to expand their sound and stage presence. According to Davis, the experience taught them to engage audiences effectively from the outset.

Creative Process and Future Plans

In a recent conversation, the duo discussed their creative process and the dynamics of being a couple in a band. “We’re brutally honest with each other,” Davis explained, noting that their bickering often revolves around music. “If one of us doesn’t like something, we say so.” Their songs, while often sounding like love songs, draw inspiration from various life experiences beyond romance.

The band actively sought to diversify their lineup, recently recruiting bassist Claud J Melton through TikTok. “We didn’t want a ‘four guys + one girl singer’ setup,” Cunningham stated, highlighting their inclusive approach to band dynamics.

Reflecting on their financial journey, the couple shared how they moved from London to Nottingham. “London rinsed us,” Cunningham noted, explaining that they found it challenging to afford living expenses. Their new base in Nottingham has provided a more sustainable environment, allowing them to engage with a vibrant music scene.

Vona Vella’s story exemplifies the power of grassroots marketing and community engagement. The £10 Instagram boost that caught Morcheeba’s attention was a pivotal moment for the band. “It’s 100% true,” Davis confirmed, recounting the serendipitous sequence of events that followed their initial marketing efforts.

As they prepare for a series of live performances, including supporting Babyshambles in Cardiff and Oxford this November, Vona Vella is poised to bring their evolved sound to a wider audience. Their journey reflects the blend of perseverance and creativity inherent in the music industry, highlighting how even small efforts can lead to substantial opportunities.

The band’s commitment to producing music that resonates with listeners while maintaining an authentic connection to their roots sets them apart in today’s music landscape. As they continue to grow and innovate, Vona Vella remains a band to watch in the coming years.

For fans eager to experience their music live, Vona Vella has a series of upcoming shows, including:

– November 5: Riga, Riga Music Week
– November 6: Riga, Ex Libris
– November 8: Nottingham, Bodega (with Big Shoes)
– November 14: London, Jaguar Shoes
– November 20: Leeds, Royal Park Cellars
– November 27: Cardiff, Tramshed (with Babyshambles)

With their new album on the horizon and a fresh single ready to make waves, Vona Vella is set to capture attention and continue their upward trajectory in the music industry.