The The have featured here a lot recently but when Matt Johnson and co. are about to release their first album* of new material since 2000, followed by a major world tour, then it's something to get excited about.
The album is titled Ensoulment and it's due on 6th September. In the meantime, opening track Cognitive Dissident was released as the lead single last month. This weekend, it was accompanied by a video directed by long time foil Tim Pope as well as a limited edition release on 7" vinyl.
Cognitive Dissident skillfully manages to sound instantly like The The, lots of familiar musical and lyrical touches whilst sounding fresh and bang on the moment.
In the 1980s and 1990s, I would buy The The singles on release on 12" and/or CD. Sadly, I won’t be in the queue to buy Cognitive Dissident, even though it boasts an exclusive non-album B-side, When Is The Heart Of Waiting.
Gorgeously packaged in a quality sleeve featuring previously unused art by Matt's brother Andy (RIP) it may be, but between £10 & £12 (plus postage) for what will amount to be just one song - I will buy the album - is more than my budget can withstand. The completist in me will wait in the hope that the B-side will eventually be available elsewhere.
If you're tempted, lots of retailers offering it for sale, including the wonderfully-named Pie & Vinyl Record Cafe in Southsea. That's a place worth visiting one day!
A bit closer to home - well, my working patch annyway - is the wonderful Badlands based in Cheltenham. One of many friendly retailers who are taking pre-orders for Ensoulment. But what to choose, the regular formats, crystal clear double vinyl or CD in mediabook packaging?
* not counting the four film soundtrack albums released between 2010 and 2020, which were largely instrumental and effectively Matt Johnson solo.
Been meaning to post this new The The song myself.
ReplyDelete...which you did in fine style, Adam. I really enjoyed the linking theme for your reviews of The The, Pet Shop Boys and Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds.
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