THE THE release digital single ‘Risin’ Above The Need / Where Do We Go When We Die?’ and announce Ltd. 7” vinyl single for 13th December
The final single from THE THE’s Ensoulment album is a double-A side release featuring the tracks ‘Risin’ Above The Need’ and ‘Where Do We Go When We Die?’.
Matt Johnson explains, “Having now had the chance to perform the new album live across the UK, Europe and America, we found that these two songs were amongst the most popular. ‘Where Do We Go When We Die?’ was written for my late father Eddie Johnson (author of Tales From The Two Puddings) whilst ‘Risin’ Above The Need’ is a philosophical muse upon addiction and materialism and the power of the human spirit to overcome obstacles.”
Both sleeves feature exclusive, previously unpublished artwork by Matt’s late brother Andrew aka Andy Dog who, over the years, was very much responsible for the distinctive aesthetic style of THE THE’s releases.
The single is digitally released on 6th November and available as a limited edition 7” vinyl single from 6th December.
Access ‘Risin’ Above The Need / Where Do We Go When We Die?’ HERE
Ensoulment itself contains echoes of THE THE’s multifaceted musical past, however it is richly representative of the mercurial band’s here and now. Johnson is characteristically unafraid to tackle the emotional complexity inherent in the human condition – intimacy in an age of alienation; democracy in a post-truth age; empire and vassalage; and the inexorable rise of AI – yet the album is equally shot through with hope.
“It’s vital to be hopeful – and I hope people get out of the album what we put into it. It was created under very happy circumstances, with a great vibe amongst the band and all the people that worked on it. There was a lot of thought, a lot of work, a lot of love, a lot of laughter!” – Matt Johnson
Ensoulment can be ordered HERE and is available in retail as a Ltd CD Hardcover Media Book, CD jewel case, Black 2 LP gatefold and Crystal Clear 2 LP gatefold. Further exclusive formats are available from the official album pre-order store.