A Certain Ratio, the influential Manchester-based three-piece, is gearing up to release their thirteenth studio album on April 19, 2024, via Mute. As a tantalizing preview of what’s to come, the band has recently unveiled their latest single, ‘All Comes Down to This‘. The single is characterized by its unique riffs, featuring a mix of choppy guitar glitches and dissonant notes that create a captivating blend of moody atmospheres. It is complemented by A Certain Ratio’s signature thought-provoking lyricism, making ‘All Comes Down to This’ a must-listen for fans eagerly anticipating the upcoming album.
The album, set to be released almost a year after their acclaimed ‘1982’ release, represents a significant milestone in the band’s enduring journey. According to band member Kerr, the album is about “the Ratio removing the safety net,” stripping away excess and returning to the band’s base ingredients. The decision was not about erasing the past but about rediscovering what makes the band work. As Johnson puts it, “let’s find the thing that makes us work” – no frills, no major overdubs, just visceral and happening in the moment.
This return to basics is not just a conceptual shift; it is reflected in the recording process as well. For the first time, the band recorded with just the core trio of principal members – multi-instrumentalists Jez Kerr, Martin Moscrop, and Donald Johnson. Producer Dan Carey also plays a crucial role in steering the recording towards a raw and unfiltered sound.
The album will consist of ten tracks, each representing a distinct mood, reflecting the confident and genre-spanning stride of their previous ‘1982’ release. It is a testament to the band’s resilience and adaptability that they embraced change during a challenging period of global turmoil. The album addresses pressing issues such as climate change, corporate wars, and political unrest, reflecting the socio-political landscape during its creation.
Despite facing delays in the recording process due to personal challenges faced by band member Jez Kerr, including a significant accident and health complications, the trio, joined by bassist Viv Griffin, persevered. They are now set for an extensive UK tour in April and May, aiming to perform the album in its entirety. This tour follows their previous one celebrating 45 years of live performances, showcasing the band’s enduring commitment to their craft.
In conclusion, ‘All Comes Down to This’ not only serves as a captivating preview of A Certain Ratio’s thirteenth studio album but also highlights the band’s ability to reinvent themselves while staying true to their roots.
Tour Dates
25 April – Huddersfield, The Parish
26 April – Leeds, Brudenell
27 April – Blackpool, Bootleg Social
28 April – Edinburgh, Summerhall
29 April – Aberdeen, The Tunnels
1 May – Norwich, Arts Centre
2 May – London, Fabric
3 May – Bedford, Esquires
4 May – Portsmouth, Wedgewood Rooms
5 May – Brighton, Concorde 2
9 May – Birmingham, Castle & Falcon
10 May – Hull, Social
11 May – Sheffield, Foundry
12 May – Bristol, Exchange
17 May – Manchester, New Century Hall
Image Credit: Debbie Ellis
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