1950s-inspired guitarist and songwriter Emma Hunter will release her new single ‘Snake’ on 03 April 2026, the final single taken from her forthcoming album Yolanda.
Working alongside percussionist Tom Bruce and bassist Hayley Wright, Hunter crafts atmospheric soundscapes blending intricate melodies, haunting harmonies and a cinematic musical style influenced by artists such as PJ Harvey and Imogen Heap. Her work is often compared with the evocative songwriting of Sharon Van Etten and Anna Calvi.
‘Snake’ forms part of the narrative arc of Hunter’s album Yolanda, which tells the story of star-crossed lovers Yolanda and Danny in 1950s Mexico. Across the album, Hunter explores themes of love, desire, addiction and mortality through atmospheric songwriting and dramatic storytelling.
The single blends layered vocal harmonies with lush guitar arrangements inspired by the sweeping cinematic style of Ennio Morricone, while flamenco-influenced textures create a dark, sun-baked sonic landscape. The song centres on Yolanda’s emotional plea for Danny to choose love over addiction.
Drawing inspiration from Mayan mythology, the snake becomes a metaphor for alcohol within the story, symbolising temptation and destructive cycles. The dramatic musical arrangement mirrors the anguish and longing embedded in the lyrics, creating a vivid listening experience.
Hunter and her band have developed a strong reputation through performances at major UK festivals including Truck Festival and Cornbury Festival, as well as shows at the O2 Academy Oxford and venues across the country.
The project has received international radio play and coverage from music publications, with Nightshift Magazine praising Hunter’s ability to evoke place and atmosphere through song.
“It’s a rare gift in a musician to be able to conjure not just the sounds but the sights, the smells, the feel of a place in song.” – Nightshift Magazine (2025)
BBC Introducing has also highlighted the band’s distinctive style, describing it as:
“Powerful vocals, emotional storytelling and infectious melodies.”
With “Snake” serving as the final preview before the release of Yolanda, Hunter continues to build a cinematic musical world that blends storytelling, mythology and atmospheric songwriting.
