Following standout festival performances across Manhattan at New York City’s New Colossus Festival, Oswald Slain returns with the release of his new single ‘Heaven Is The Place’, out today, June 26th 2026, a bruised, humorous ode to pub gardens and life’s small pleasures.
Born from the creative cocoon of his home studio in Bristol, Oswald Slain is a testament to both personal growth and musical evolution, reflecting a period of deep introspection and a gritty outlook. Having reconciled with the chaos of youth and the trials of aging, lyricist Fitz channels these experiences into sincere, humorous, evocative songwriting alongside the timeless swagger of old retro rock records.
Since releasing his debut EP ‘KISS ME ON THE MOUTH’ in April of 2025, Oswald Slain has earned support from the likes of SiriusXM, Apple Music editorial, Rough Trade’s ‘Counter Culture’, Ones To Watch, RTÉ, KUTX and ASBO Magazine. That momentum continued with debut album ‘BUCKY’, released to vinyl just 6 months later in October 2025, a raw and reflective record documenting self-destruction, growth and musical reinvention, which saw him awarded festival slots at Shambala, The Great Estate, Kendal Calling and Wilderness Festival.
Recorded at his DIY home studio with Ryan Rogers (Mumble Tide), mixed by Jon Logan and mastered by Pete Maher (Pixies, Paul Weller, Nick Cave, Jack White), Oswald Slain’s new single ‘Heaven Is The Place’ is a candid ode to the local pub, combining Fitz’ characteristic mix of evocative humor and tragic storytelling underpinned by driving drums, soaring soundscapes and heartfelt vocals.
On the single, Fitz reflects, “What is heaven to you? Is it a pub garden on a crisp Summer’s day, a pint of Guiness and a Marlboro Gold. Maybe a cheeseburger? It probably is to me at this point if I’m being honest. I could say it’s a nice walk, or feeling the post workout neurochemical afterglow. I could also say it’s time with the family or great friends, or how much better I actually feel if I eat well, exercise regularly, drink lots of water, go to bed at a reasonable hour and get up at 7am for a run and smoothie. But I’d be lying. Crisp Summer’s day, pub garden, four pints of Guiness, 20 Marlboro Golds, a couple of mates. Done.”
He adds, “There is an inevitable breaking point that I feel this song reflects. Between success, failure and everything in between. I often feel trapped in purgatory waiting for something to happen as an artist, surrendering to hope and suffocated by anxiety. Though there are moments, and more so recently where clarity, acceptance and a humbling gratefulness step in and take over. This song was always that for me. A moment of clarity. It took me a year to write this song. I had the first bit for a year and just couldn’t finish it. Then I started drinking again and it happened pretty easy. There’s a pub I had my first pint in, after my hiatus from drinking, called Sugar Loaf in Bristol. I guess Heaven Is The Place is a love letter to the present and my favorite pub.”
About Oswald Slain
Oswald Slain’s sound is a rich tapestry woven from the threads of classic Americana, echoing the timeless vibes of Neil Young and The Band, whilst infusing it with the gritty, energetic rock essence familiar from his previous works. Anchored by the driving rhythms and fuzzy guitars, his take offers both reflective depth and an irresistible groove, promising music that resonates with both heart and soul. With charismatic performances that can have you laughing and dancing one minute, and heart broken the next, Oswald Slain’s live shows are full of humor, soul and heartfelt sincerity.
SOURCE: Official Bio
LINKS:
https://www.facebook.com/OswaldSlain
https://www.instagram.com/oswaldslain
https://open.spotify.com/artist/3IuKVSchn2kbstTS72MMIV
https://music.apple.com/us/artist/oswald-slain/1771207268
https://music.amazon.com/artists/B0DJ6738WS/oswald-slain
https://www.youtube.com/@OswaldSlain