SOFT PLAY are an English punk rock duo formed by Isaac Holman and Laurie Vincent in Royal Tunbridge Wells in 2012. Loud, direct, and built for the sort of songs that get under your skin in about thirty seconds.
You might have known them previously as Slaves — a name they used until 2022 before changing it due to its unwanted connotations. Same band. Same impact. Just a name that does not drag the mood down before the first chord hits.
From the outset, SOFT PLAY proved that a two-piece can sound anything but small. One guitar, one drum kit, and a refusal to dilute the message. The result is sharp-edged British punk with garage rock grit, biting lyrics and hooks that arrive quickly and leave a mark.
Laurie Vincent’s distorted guitar work locks tightly with Isaac Holman’s driving drums and unmistakable vocals. There is frustration, humour and social commentary woven through the noise, delivered with a very British directness.
It is raw without being careless. Energetic without drifting into chaos. And rarely longer than it needs to be.
We stock SOFT PLAY audio releases on CD and vinyl only. However, we are currently working on sourcing official SOFT PLAY T-shirts and hoodies, so keep an eye on this page as we look to expand the range. Availability can shift as pressings come and go, so if a title you want is showing as in stock, it is usually best not to overthink it.
Key albums include:
Are You Satisfied? (2015) – Mercury Prize-nominated debut, fast, pointed and uncompromising
Take Control (2016) – produced by Mike D (Beastie Boys), broadening the sound without softening it
Acts of Fear and Love (2018) – more expansive in scope while keeping the bite intact
Heavy Jelly (2024) – the first release under the SOFT PLAY name, reaffirming their stripped-back punch
Together, these records capture a band that have consistently favoured honesty, volume and immediacy over polish.
At Eyesore Merch, we stock 100% official SOFT PLAY CDs and vinyl, supplied by trusted labels and distributors. Everything we carry is fully licensed and intended for proper collections.
100% official SOFT PLAY CDs and vinyl
Supplied by trusted labels and distributors
Fast UK delivery
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Browse the current SOFT PLAY releases below and add some no-nonsense British punk to your collection.
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