Skep Wax Records
British Birds – Murmurate, Oscillate
Pre-order — Releases 16th October 2026.
Ships on, or as close as possible to, the release date.
Special Edition · Yellow VinylPickup available at 12 Bar Music and Social - Exeter
Usually ready in 24 hours
'Murmuration' is the low hum made by vast, beautifully choreographed flocks of starlings as they simultaneously flap their wings and take to the sky. Some people say that the frequency of this unique, rumbling, oscillating sound can cure diseases.
One of the most exciting live bands in the UK, British Birds combine the garage-punk energy of Billy Childish, the wry English sophistication of XTC and the witty pop inventiveness of The Lovely Eggs. Like a murmurating flock of starlings, they create a unique sound, and might even be able to cure diseases.
Based in Chorley, Lancashire, British Birds are a resolutely DIY band. Bobby records and mixes all the music; Emma creates all the artwork. Their first two albums were self-released, selling hundreds of copies at gigs and at a few chosen record stores. British Birds didn't wait for permission to take flight. They just got on with it. Their songs are sophisticated, hard-hitting, and very skilful. It may be DIY, but it's big and it's ambitious.
'Murmurate, Oscillate' kicks off with Lie Down With Dogs, Stand Up With Fleas, a rousing expression of exasperation at our passivity in the face of lame authority. British Birds are acute observers of the English political scene, shrouding their observations in humour and surrealism. From the fog of disinformation and doubt that surrounds us all in 2020s Britain, British Birds embrace the darkness, but with wit and verve – no slogans, no easy answers – and with an energy that helps us escape the mundanity of a declining island. This might all sound a bit bleak, but it's not: every single one of the songs on this album has a chorus as big as a house.
For fans of: IDLES, Shame, Black Midi
Tracklist
Details
Format: Yellow Vinyl
Release Date: 16th October 2026
Barcode: 5055869552523
More than just another record.
From Order to Turntable
You Discover
You've found something special — not just another record.
We Pack It Right
Packed by people who care about records. No bent corners. Just the good stuff — zine, stickers, a little extra.
It Lands
Safe delivery. Properly handled. Ready for the turntable.
You Press Play
Needle down. Music on.
Easy returns if it's not quite right. Enjoy the journey.
Buying from 12 Bar
Everything you need to know about ordering from 12 Bar—real people, thoughtful service and carefully sourced records.
Why shop with 12 Bar?
We're an independent record shop built around music discovery. Every purchase supports a small team passionate about sharing great music, championing independent artists and creating a thriving music community.
Every title on 12-bar.com has been chosen by real music lovers—not algorithms. We focus on records we genuinely believe deserve to be heard, helping you discover artists, labels and sounds you might not find elsewhere.
How long will my order take?
Many of the records we sell are sourced to order from our trusted network of UK distributors, allowing us to offer thousands more titles than we could ever stock in-store. Please allow up to 7 working days for dispatch.
If you've pre-ordered a record, we'll always aim to dispatch it in time for release day so it arrives on, or as close to, the official release date as possible.
Why does dispatch take a little longer?
We're an independent record shop, not a warehouse. Rather than filling shelves with thousands of records that may never sell, we carefully source many titles once you place your order.
It means a wider catalogue, less waste and more opportunities to discover great music.
How are records packaged?
Every record is packed using purpose-made vinyl mailers with protective packaging to help ensure it arrives safely.
Whenever we can, we'll also include a few 12 Bar stickers, our latest zine and other little extras to make opening your order feel just as special as playing the record.
Can I return my order?
If your order arrives damaged or isn't quite right, please get in touch and we'll make it right.
For unopened items, you can return your order within 14 days of delivery. Please see our full Returns Policy for details.
Can I collect my order from the shop?
Absolutely. If you'd prefer to collect from 12 Bar Music & Social in Exeter, simply choose Local Pickup at checkout and we'll let you know as soon as your order is ready.