review by Damon Boughen

Nestlings Vol. 1, the debut compilation from Oxford’s Young Women’s Music Project (YWMP), is a celebration of local musical talent and the importance of grassroots music spaces. Released to mark the first anniversary of The Nest, the project’s venue, the twelve-track collection brings together established artists, emerging musicians and bands that have developed within its walls. The result is an engaging snapshot of Oxford’s independent music scene.

Musically, the album moves between indie, post-punk, experimental sounds and intimate acoustic performances. Jamie Mykaela’s ‘Neon Lights’ provides a striking opening, while Aftercare’s ‘Everything Else’ delivers a compelling blend of shoegaze and post-punk. Cheerbleederz, Catkin and Ember bring their own alternative sensibilities, while Rubie’s stripped-back ‘Kick Drums’ offers a welcome change of pace.

Among the more adventurous contributions, Slunk’s eight-minute ‘Orion’ stands out whilst Luisa Gerstein’s experimental ‘A Jog Along the Tarn River’ adds another unexpected dimension. Jenny Moore’s ‘Take It Down (Home Demo)’ demonstrates the appeal of a more unpolished recording. The inclusion of several exclusive tracks makes the compilation particularly worthwhile.

Not every track sits comfortably alongside the next, but that is part of the charm. Rather than aiming for a unified sound, Nestlings Vol. 1 celebrates the individuality of its contributors and the creative energy of the community around them. There is a genuine sense of discovery here, making it an enjoyable introduction to artists who deserve a wider audience.

Beyond the music, the compilation also highlights the value of spaces such as The Nest, where musicians can rehearse, collaborate and develop their confidence. With proceeds supporting YWMP’s work, it is a release with a worthwhile purpose. More importantly, it succeeds on its musical merits: an inventive, occasionally surprising and thoroughly enjoyable collection that suggests Oxford’s independent scene is in good hands.