A warm-weather indie anthem with just the right touch of melancholy
Manchester’s emerging indie rock outfit Dreaming of Citra has returned with Bitter, a fresh single that wraps golden-hour nostalgia in shimmering guitar tones and sun-flecked melodies. Released just as spring rolls into summer, Bitter is the sound of a road trip with the windows down and a heart that hasn’t fully healed—hopeful, vibrant, and a little bruised.
Fusing pop-influenced hooks with the emotional edge of classic indie rock, Bitter reflects a new creative chapter for the five-piece band. Known for their high-energy live shows and recent acclaim from BBC Introducing, Absolute Radio, and local tastemakers, Dreaming of Citra is quickly becoming a staple of the UK’s thriving alt scene. Their ability to bridge infectious rhythms with lyrical depth continues to resonate—and with Bitter, they double down on their signature blend of euphoria and introspection.
“Bitter represents a new direction for us,” says the band’s lead vocalist. “We wanted to capture that carefree summer feeling but also explore the bittersweet themes that everyone can relate to. It’s about those moments of joy that have a hint of melancholy—a kind of sweetness with an edge.”
The track radiates seasonal optimism—ideal for those late-night playlists or lazy afternoons that carry the weight of memory. But beneath its sun-soaked exterior lies an emotional complexity that feels unmistakably human. It’s this tension that gives Bitter its punch, making it more than just a summer jam—it’s a song about what lingers after the light fades.
Having already been named Manchester’s Artist of the Month and racking up attention from local media and music blogs, Dreaming of Citra is poised for a major breakout. As Bitter finds its way into playlists and speakers across the country, it’s clear the band is tapping into something timeless: the ability to make joy feel honest, and sorrow feel like a shared experience.
Bitter is now streaming on all major platforms. With this release, Dreaming of Citra offer a perfect send-off to summer—and a strong signal of everything yet to come.
