Hot Chip travels a long way for new LP
Hot Chip is diving headfirst into a new era, releasing their ninth album, A Long Way From Kansas, on January 8th via Domino. More than just a collection of tracks, this album is a powerful reflection of the band’s journey, tackling the complexities of the world with a sound that embraces distortion, decay, and dissonance, all while stubbornly clinging to the communal pleasures that define their music.
The fresh sound of the record is paired with a particularly poignant preview: “Random Violence,” a tribute dedicated to the memory of late Optimo DJ Keith McIvor, known as JD Twitch. McIvor was a pivotal figure in Glasgow’s club culture, serving as a DJ, curator, and promoter, leaving an indelible mark on the city’s musical landscape.
Hot Chip honors McIvor’s legacy by celebrating his spirit alongside the music. The band is scheduled to pay homage with a DJ appearance alongside friends at the city’s Sub Club on October 21st, marking the point where they first met McIvor two decades ago.
The inspiration for the album’s themes is deeply rooted in this history. Group member Joe Goddard noted that McIvor was a passionate music lover and a staunch believer in socialism, and many lyrics on the new album directly relate to his life and their shared memories in Glasgow.
The song’s emotional core is palpable. Goddard recounts the inspiration behind the lyrics, referencing moments of shared history and belief, expressing how McIvor’s memory helped shape the message, singing lines that speak to those who spent their lives sending songs out into the world.
The album’s visual counterpart, the video “Random Violence,” directed by Jack Cole, captures this celebratory spirit. It features Boss Morris, an all-female progressive morris dancing group, engaging in a powerful display of togetherness, remembrance, and resistance. The energy was sparked by the band’s experiences at Optimo Espookio Halloween parties at the Sub Club, aiming to bottle that feeling of humanity and resistance.
This willingness to embrace the chaotic is mirrored in the music itself. A Long Way From Kansas confronts an increasingly harsh and depressing world, using distortion and dissonance not as an escape, but as an unavoidable backdrop for their sound. It’s a testament to finding communal joy even amidst discord.
The album is rich with voices and collaboration, featuring guest appearances from the Gossip’s Beth Ditto and Eddie Chacon, alongside expanded contributions from within the band, including new vocalists and a full choir. This effort to open up their interior world and bring diverse voices together elevates the entire experience.
Following this release, Hot Chip has continued to be a cultural force, appearing in Netflix’s Beef and celebrating the twentieth anniversary of their album The Warning. As they look ahead, the group has announced a U.K. and European tour for 2027, promising more opportunities to connect with audiences across the continent.
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