The Tubs Unleash New Sound with Hard Life
Get ready to dive into some deeply felt, soulful pop. The band The Tubs have just announced their latest offering, the album Hard Life, set to drop on September 11 via Merge. This new project marks a significant step for the group, featuring contributions from longtime collaborators and former bandmates, including Lan McArdle on vocals, George Nicholls on guitar, and Rachel Kenedy on keyboards.
The inaugural single, “Who’s Gonna Love You Now?”, immediately sets a tone of thoughtful introspection. It’s an earworm steeped in self-doubt, perfectly capturing the group’s knack for delivering emotionally resonant lyrics. Owen Williams, the singer and guitarist, describes the track as a blend of sounds, noting it’s a kind of Northern Soul, Royal Headache influenced pop number rich with organ textures.
Lyrically, the song explores themes of anti-sexual freedom and pro-monogamy. The lyrics from Williams’ scold persona sermonize that the other “Owen” risks loneliness by pursuing fleeting, uncommitted relationships, suggesting that true contentment lies elsewhere rather than in chasing an elusive ‘grass is greener’ approach to life.
The album Hard Life offers a full journey through these complex emotional landscapes. The tracklist features ten tracks, including “Hard Life,” “If You Don’t Love Me,” and the poignant “Heaven or London.” It provides listeners with a complete picture of the band’s mature sound.
As anticipation builds for the release, The Tubs are gearing up for a major North American run this fall. Their tour schedule is strategically bookended by major stops in the New York City area, promising an immersive experience for fans eager to connect with their music live.
Fans can catch the band live at Tubby’s Kingston on October 15 and Le Poisson Rouge on November 11. Tickets for all dates are going on sale Friday, June 26 at 10 AM local time. The full schedule includes stops across the continent, including shows in Toronto, Chicago, Seattle, and Los Angeles, making this a must-see event for music lovers across North America.
The journey into Hard Life is more than just new music; it’s an invitation to explore deep emotional truths wrapped in a wonderfully soulful package. Prepare to experience the depth of The Tubs as they bring their sound and stories to a live audience this autumn.
Credit: BrooklynVegan
