Play For Keeps are stuck on repeat reliving the nostalgic sounds of the 2010s

Who remembers 2010? If you need a reminder, put on Play For Keeps. The Christchurch five piece embody the guitar driven, synth laced indie pop that defined an era. Their debut EP, HEY LOVE, is out now.

The four track release features Handsome Boy, Presumptuous, Out Of The Dark, and the title track, Hey Love, which explores the realities of long term commitment once the honeymoon period fades. Bass player Tim Cederman says the song is about the tension between joy and hardship in relationships.

It dives into the raw, unfiltered reality of choosing love through difficult moments, where ecstasy and pain exist side by side.

Produced by Tom Healy, whose credits include Marlon Williams, Nadia Reid, and Tiny Ruins, HEY LOVE is the first EP from the band since reintroducing themselves as Play For Keeps earlier this year. The group previously performed under the name Ellie Oak before revealing a new name, sound, and direction.

The release follows a strong start for the Ōtautahi band, with performances at festivals including Nostalgia, support from New Zealand student radio, and thousands of streams across Apple Music and Spotify.