Bartees Strange is set to release a new album titled Horror, featuring a cover that pays homage to Blade. Notably, he has opted for a distinct Misfits-inspired devilock hairstyle in promotional images. Interested listeners should definitely feel excited about this upcoming project. After making a surprise appearance during Julien Baker’s DC concert, Strange continues to show his ability to blend different musical styles. Embracing an Elvira-like aesthetic for this follow-up to 2022’s Farm To Table is a thrilling turn for him.
Launching early next year, Horror draws on Strange’s background as a queer Black individual from Oklahoma, exploring themes of fear—both personal fears and being perceived as a fearsome figure. The album was crafted with noted contributions from Yves Rothman, Lawrence Rothman, and Jack Antonoff. It includes the earlier released track “Lie 95” alongside the fresh single “Sober.” In Strange’s own words:
This record is my attempt to connect with others who might also be feeling lost or fearful in life—be it about love, personal circumstances, or general negative vibes. Understanding that we all share these feelings can make life’s darkness easier to navigate. This album symbolizes my effort to bridge these connections and reduce the vastness of the world, creating a sense of closeness to lessen fears.
The track “Sober” was co-produced by Strange, the Rothmans, and Antonoff, characterized by a subtle ’80s rock vibe reminiscent of Heartland. It marks a significant stylistic shift for Bartees Strange. Regarding the song, he shares:
This track reflects the cycle of inadequacy in relationships and resorting to drinking as a coping mechanism. Many can relate to the struggle of loving someone yet not excelling in expressing that love, fearing that one will never witness a healthier example of what love should be.
The music video for “Sober,” created by Ricardo Betancourt, pays tribute to a legendary performance by Sly & The Family Stone from Soul Train in 1974. Below, you can view the video clip, the tracklist for Horror, and the upcoming live performance dates Strange has scheduled.
TRACKLIST:
01 “Too Much”
02 “Hit It Quit It”
03 “Sober”
04 “Baltimore”
05 “Lie 95”
06 “Wants, Needs”
07 “Lovers”
09 “Doomsday Buttercup”
10 “17”
11 “Loop Defenders”
12 “Norf Gun”
13 “Backseat Banton”
TOUR DATES:
2/13 – Los Angeles, CA @ Paramount
2/15 – Washington, DC @ 9:30 Club
2/19 – New York, NY @ Bowery Ballroom
2/26 – London, UK @ Oslo Hackney
Horror will be available on 2/14 through 4AD.
Comment