"Black Country, New Road Unveils New Single and Album Details"
Black Country, New Road is back with an exciting new single titled “Happy Birthday,” marking their first release since their critically acclaimed album, “Ants From Up There.” This latest track is part of their upcoming studio album, “Forever Howlong,” set to be released on April 4th, 2024, under the Ninja Tune label. Fans can get a glimpse of their innovative sound through the newly released stop-motion music video that accompanies “Happy Birthday.”
The announcement of “Forever Howlong” also comes with the news of an intimate UK tour scheduled for April 2025, during which the band will perform the album in its entirety. These highly anticipated shows will follow the band’s US and European tours later in 2023, demonstrating their ongoing evolution and connection with audiences around the world.
The new album was produced by the renowned James Ford, known for his work with artists like Arctic Monkeys and Depeche Mode. “Forever Howlong” will showcase a fresh dynamic within the band, as the songwriting and vocals are being shared among Tyler Hyde, Georgia Ellery, and May Kershaw. This collaborative effort has resulted in music that is emotionally resonant and rich in texture, once again highlighting their remarkable ability to innovate.
“Happy Birthday” exemplifies the band’s intuitive songwriting process in this new configuration. The track cleverly interlinks with their previously released song “Besties,” demonstrating how their work forms a cohesive musical narrative despite each song standing alone. The sound of “Happy Birthday” is characterized by sprightly piano and gentle guitar, and its lyrics delve into themes of generational disconnect and self-awareness, set against the backdrop of an uplifting musical landscape.
The animation for the music video, directed by Lesley-Anne Rose, captures the essence of the song through a charming story of two birds navigating obstacles in their environment. This visual representation adds another layer to the track, emphasizing the band’s creativity beyond just their music.
In 2025, Black Country, New Road will continue to tour prominently in support of “Forever Howlong.” The April UK dates will be followed by performances across the US, various festivals, and a larger UK and European tour in September and October, climaxing with a headline performance at London’s O2 Brixton Academy.
Fans can pre-order “Forever Howlong” in various formats, including a standard double LP and special collector’s editions. This variety highlights the band’s commitment to their artistry and the experience they want to share with fans, not just through their music but also in how it’s presented and consumed.
With “Forever Howlong,” Black Country, New Road is poised to solidify their status as one of the most innovative bands currently operating in the music scene. Their blend of genres and seamless mash of influences promises a listening experience that is both rich and rewarding, reinforcing their reputation as modern musical trailblazers.
