New Album: Barbara Barbara, we face a shining future (March 18, 2016)

[TheBang]

https://underworld.tmstor.es/images/26807.jpg

Release date: March 18, 2016
(March 16 in Japan)


Standard Edition
CD: Amazon UK (http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B018IEAFZ4/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1634&creative=19450&creativeASIN=B018IEAFZ4&linkCode=as2&tag=bordir-21), Amazon US (http://amzn.to/23bLLbY)
LP Vinyl: Amazon UK (http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B0186J90RK/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1634&creative=19450&creativeASIN=B0186J90RK&linkCode=as2&tag=bordir-21), Amazon US (http://amzn.to/1lpLTCC)
Digital: iTunes UK (https://geo.itunes.apple.com/gb/album/barbara-barbara-we-face-shining/id1059340629?at=1001l9r9&app=itunes), Amazon MP3 UK (http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B0183PPZB2/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1634&creative=19450&creativeASIN=B0183PPZB2&linkCode=as2&tag=bordir-21), iTunes US (https://geo.itunes.apple.com/us/album/barbara-barbara-we-face-shining/id1061211593?at=1001l9r9&app=itunes), Amazon MP3 US (http://amzn.to/1O8fB6q)

1. I Exhale - 8:10
2. If Rah - 7:12
3. Low Burn - 6:44
4. Santiago Cuatro - 4:00
5. Motorhome - 6:23
6. Ova Nova - 5:31
7. Nylon Strung - 6:48


---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Exclusives

Underworld Shop Exclusives

CD Collector's Book Pack
CD+Book: UW Shop (http://underworld.tmstor.es/cart/product.php?id=26880)
A 12x12” 60 page soft cover book of original artwork created by tomato includes the album on CD on a pull out sheet.

Special Edition Boxset
CD+Book and LP Vinyl: UW Shop (http://underworld.tmstor.es/cart/product.php?id=26885)
Includes both the heavyweight vinyl and the 12x12" Tomato book with CD.
Also includes an exclusive set of 7 12x12” art prints and a test pressing of the track "Twenty Three Blue".
The first 100 copies of the Special Edition Boxset ordered from the Underworld Shop will be stamped, numbered, and signed.
The Special Edition was apparently limited to 400 numbered copies.
Update: The signed/numbered copies have sold out on the first day of sale.

From 9am GMT on Friday Nov. 27th, the CD and Vinyl albums will be available bundled with tickets to the London shows. Save £2 on the CD or £5 on the Vinyl when bought with a ticket. Tickets are only available for the London shows and please remember tickets are limited.
Update: The London shows are sold out.


Japan Bonus Track
CD: Beat Records (http://shop.beatink.com/shopdetail/000000001982/)
CD + T-shirt: Beat Records (http://shop.beatink.com/shopdetail/000000001983/)

Japan only gets the standard CD version, but it includes "Twenty Three Blue" as a bonus track.
There is also a bundle available that includes the CD plus a limited edition T-shirt with Tomato design.

[WhiteNoise]

2.5 minutes of preview here:

https://soundcloud.com/underworld/underworld-shining-future-part-1/s-3wbvu

This is different.

[khouri]

Don't hear one familiar sound in any of that, save for Karl's voice. That's both exciting and terrifying.

[Troy McClure]

For what it's worth the pre-order link for the MP3 download shows the track lengths:

I Exhale 8:11
If Rah 7:13
Low Burn 6:45
Santiago Cuatro 4:01
Motorhome 6:24
Ova Nova 5:32
Nylon Strung 6:48

==ps== The shipping for the deluxe / signed package is 60 GBP (approximately $90) to the USA.... yikes. But for all that the package comes with, I guess that's expected... The band doesn't set the shipping price.

Jason

[WhiteNoise]

Longest track 8 minutes? Maybe a silly thing to be disappointed about, but I am.

[TheBang]

FWIW, there's a version of Santeago Quatro on the 2008-04-23 Lemonworld broadcast. It was written during/after the South American shows in April 2008.

[khouri]

The sounds in these clips feel very harsh and distorted for Underworld. They've been posting a lot of analog gear on their Instagram over the last year, maybe that accounts for it.

[khouri]

Just occurred to me that this is the first UW album since A Hundred Days Off where we haven't already heard a considerable number of the tracks in other forms. Both Oblivion and Barking had loads of stuff the band had performed or streamed in primordial form. Nothing to compare these to, with the exception of Santiago Quatro.

[twicezero]

Don't hear one familiar sound in any of that, save for Karl's voice. That's both exciting and terrifying.

This. Totally this.

[twicezero]

100 quid box doesn't do enough for me. Vinyl isn't my thing. Good luck to you people getting in on the first 100 though!

[Troy McClure]

I really enjoy that part from :50 - 1:30. That will probably sound fantastic live. And I'm always curious when there's guitar in an Underworld song. Not sure what to make of the first 50 seconds just yet. For some reason, the sound reminds me of the Trance movie soundtrack, even though it's completely different than anything else.

Jason

[marcolphus]

So short, only 45 minutes! I can't listen to that soundcloud file now, but I'm really excited to hear such great news.

[whatmakesustick]

I don't mind if it's different - at this stage of their career I would rather be a bit excited and 'scared' about what might be on the album, rather than knowing what we are getting (if you know what I mean!!!). If I want something like dubno, I will listen to dubno and if I want something like STITI then I will listen to that record etc!

Remember there is also a track (test pressing) is the super expensive boxset that is not on the new album as well which will probably take the running time to 50+ in total which seems very reasonable!!

I have not even had chance to listen (or unwrap) to the new STITI remaster yet so with that and a new record and new Tomato stuff and new shows and new Karl Hyde book (maybe) I am in Underworld heaven :)

[Dunwho]

Well great news, I have been looking forward to hearing what they have been working on. My first impressions are mixed... I am the same as another comment on here.. the first 50 seconds of the teaser I am a bit unsure of - but the following two snippets are pretty great I think.

Just an observation: the first 50 seconds sound like Daft Punk's latest album... anyone else get that vibe? But it does sound as though the song is about to change dramatically just before it switches to the second snippet.

Overall though I am delighted as ever for something new and fresh. There is probably going to be the return of some cheese (which I think Barking was full of) but also some really interesting explorations of sound and experimentation... hopefully mostly the latter :)

[kontakt1968]

At last new underworld , something to celebrate!
The Special edition is pricey but vinyl/cd/book/artprints and of course that test pressing ...wonder how fast the first 100 will sell out, my pre order does say signed/numbered but well see...
shippings a lost more reasonable to the u.k £10.

look forward to hearing new stuff live too.:)

[Yannick]

:p

[King of Snake]

So short, only 45 minutes! I can't listen to that soundcloud file now, but I'm really excited to hear such great news. Yeah UW albums seem to be getting progressively shorter and shorter. Of course it's the quality that counts but to be honest I think 45 minutes of material in 6 years (yeah ok they probably didn't work 6 years on the album) is pretty dissapointing. And I think UW's music works best in long form anyway. Just for reference I checked the opproximate album lengths (regular releases without bonus tracks):

Dubno: 01:13
STITI: 01:13
BF 01:14
AHDO: 01:02
OWB: 00:58
Barking: 00:54
BBWFASF: 00:45

What I'm hearing in the preview doesn't really excite me, but I'm sure some of it will grow on me.

[TheBang]

A few thoughts so far:

I'm surprised this is independent and not going out on Universal Music, given their apparently successful relationship with UMe since Karl's Edgeland.

According to this Japan article (http://www.clubberia.com/ja/news/5462-6/), they worked on the album from Aug. 2014 - Sept. 2015, the fastest they've ever completed an album.

At 44:48, this is the shortest album UW have ever released, beating the previous record holder, Barking, by almost 10 minutes.

"Twenty Three Blue" will also be available on the Japan releases as a bonus track.

STITI's 20th anniversary date is on March 11, so now it makes sense why the Remaster is coming out a little bit early. Also, it seems like we probably won't be getting a STITI full album tour.

[Dirty0900]

Live dates muted as well. Any full list out?

[darkvoice]

What is this about bonus tracks for Japan? Just add them anyway... So old school nonsense. I just don't get it: release demos / unfinished tracks as a subscription service or at least as digital tracks in the shop and we will be pleased for sure.

But very excited for new material!

[kontakt1968]

Yeah have to agree about country specific bonus tracks , underworld have done this before .In this digital age of music why why why would you do this?

[crank]

uh, sounds like edge land. hate to be a debbie downer but not excited by these clips.

[stimpee]

Well Debbie, i'll hold my opinions till i hear more. I like at least 2 of the 3 tracks.

Not in favour of Japanese bonus tracks. I have ordered way too much UW stuff from Japan over the years to complete my collection. Hello CDJapan, looks like I'll be needing you again...

[ThingInABook]

what else i can say? I'M THRILLED.

also, i'm giggling like a schoolgirl because Santiago 4 is the name of a prison in Santiago, Chile (wonder if i'm confusing it with the Colina prison). yes, and according to an interview, Santiago was written in the city of Santiago during 2008. wonder if it's related to Trance's Santeago???

i haven't heard a thing yet. i was expecting a new track for today, not a full album release!!

also, dude, the boxset is almost a half of my monthly rent!! and since i don't have real disposable income atm, i settled for the CD+book...

[holden]

Great surprise! Was expecting announcement to be about a play score or Karl's book.

How many times in a row can I listen to the preview? Let's find out!

Seriously, this sounds good. Even the first bit is growing after the initial shock. Middle segment seems poised to really bang, and the final guitar figure is almost comfortably familiar.

[Drix]

I'm actually glad they seem to take another direction than Barking had them on, and if they are in the mood for experiments then it sounds like they are having fun!

With all the remasters and bonus materials they keep throwing at us, I can do with some new directions on the new material. :)

[thee carp dreamer]

The drums sound horrible...

[jetpig]

First section reminds me most of Someday World in production quality; synthetic, almost "fake/plastic" synth sounds. It's growing on me, though, and the rest of it sounds amazing. Is 'The Rhythym' a fresh vocal, or a sample left over from various ALAF takes, I wonder? That final snippet is giving me goosebump feels already.

[Lx_Nen]

The first 100 copies of the Special Edition Boxset ordered from the Underworld Shop will be stamped, numbered, and signed.

The shop isn't saying that anymore, so I guess that means the first 100 have all gone. My email receipt definitely says "Special Edition (Signed/Numbered)", so I think that means I was quick enough :-)

[Geo]

Guess we have to wait 10 years now, to hear some more tracks than are contained in the 45 minutes of the album ;)

[TheBang]

The shop isn't saying that anymore, so I guess that means the first 100 have all gone. My email receipt definitely says "Special Edition (Signed/Numbered)", so I think that means I was quick enough :-)
I ordered mine a half hour before the news releases went out, so I'm crossing my fingers for #1. :)

[Troy McClure]

I ordered mine a half hour before the news releases went out, so I'm crossing my fingers for #1. :)

;)


What is a test pressing anyways? I've never owned anything like that before? Will it look or feel any different than a traditional vinyl release?

Jason

[ultradave]

I gave the Soundcloud link a listen. Interesting teaser I will have to say. UW tracks almost always shift in progression, so it's really hard to tell. The first track is very different than what I'd be expecting... it is definitely very trancelike, but then the vocals take it even further back to a more 80's feel (to my ears)... :confused:

Oh, but then once it kicks in with "The Rhythm..." I am sold on this track for sure. I always love Karl playing guitar on UW tracks, so I'm excited about this too. :cool:

[marcolphus]

The first snippet reminds me of this year's Leftfield's album. Sounds very modern... Don't know if I like it.

BTW. What's the use to advertise the album 4 months before the release? The excitement will be gone within month or two for me...

[//\/\/]

Japan exclusives? (faints with surprise)

Why not just treat the rest of us properly?

Just for once.




(first clip reminds me of Orbital...)

[whatmakesustick]

Does anyone understand how the roundhouse tickets work?

The news letter says that from Fri you can purchase the CD and ticket together, but today, there is a 'round house tickets' product on the store that requires an access code.

So....do you have to buy the CD to get an access code (which is disappointing as I just spent 100quid of the super-duper-thingy), or is this a completely different pre-sale that I am unaware of?

I ask because I have stopped getting emails from Underworld/TMstore as I think my email provider is blocking them (even though I have added them to safe senders).

Thanks.

[purlieu]

Thought: relatively short recording time + short album after such a long gap. Could they be planning to put out shorter albums more regularly after this, rather than longer albums further apart?

There does seem to have been a trend in recent years to bring albums back down to the 50 minute mark after the CD-fillers of the '90s. Orbital and FSOL have been doing it as well. But this one is very obviously shorter than normal - at seven tracks I was hoping for some lengthy pieces so the runtimes really surprised me.

Japanese bonus tracks on CD releases are still somewhat industry standard these days, sadly.

[potatobroth]

the last snippet sounds quite amazing. the first reminds snip reminds me of Between Stars - a song I always figured the boys loved that I've never enjoyed.

8 tracks seems quite short but I'll reserve that judgement for later.

[holden]

The first snippet reminds me of this year's Leftfield's album. Sounds very modern... Don't know if I like it.

BTW. What's the use to advertise the album 4 months before the release? The excitement will be gone within month or two for me...

Makes sense to announce early...even though we know the boys have been busy with lots since Barking (Olympics, Trance, Edgeland, Eno collabs, touring dubno, etc etc), to the popular culture, they've been out of the public eye, by and large. With return albums by Prodigy, Leftfield and Chemical Brothers after lengthy hiatuses, it makes marketing sense for UW to build buzz early. And in the meantime, some folks might decide that the new STITI boxset is just in time for Christmas!

Re that first track from the preview snippet; I like how its already evoked an odd response.
Somehow it reminds us of Leftfield, Daft Punk, Orbital, Eno, and UW themselves or not at all. Definitely has an 80s vibe for me.
I'd bet its the lead single...

[whatmakesustick]

Re that first track from the preview snippet; I like how its already evoked an odd response.
Somehow it reminds us of Leftfield, Daft Punk, Orbital, Eno, and UW themselves or not at all. Definitely has an 80s vibe for me.
I'd bet its the lead single...

I was about to post exactly the same comment! Guess it's fairly original if it's not so easily likened o something else.

[Dirty0900]

Japan always has more as its a decent market for physical sales. But the tax on records makes it more expensive. Stuff is expanded so there's a higher chance to buy. Not always great songs either.

[philth]

Does anyone understand how the roundhouse tickets work? The news letter says that from Fri you can purchase the CD and ticket together, but today, there is a 'round house tickets' product on the store that requires an access code. So....do you have to buy the CD to get an access code (which is disappointing as I just spent 100quid of the super-duper-thingy), or is this a completely different pre-sale that I am unaware of? I ask because I have stopped getting emails from Underworld/TMstore as I think my email provider is blocking them (even though I have added them to safe senders). Thanks.

Anyone know the answer to this? In the same boat here.

[ThingInABook]

any word of a single release? like they did with Barking? since it's pretty standard to hear something 4months before an actual record release...

(all lies. i just want to hear that blissey track that goes 'the rhythm, the rhythm')

[whatmakesustick]

Anyone know the answer to this? In the same boat here.

I got an email back from the store (the link I saw to buy tickets had been removed). They basically said that tickets would be on sale at 9 tomorrow so I guess we'll just have to wait and see how it works.

[TheBang]

Just guessing here, but I think how it'll work is you'll have to buy a special bundle product on the Shop. CD + Tickets or LP + Tickets (it doesn't appear that the CD Book or Special Edition will be included in the ticket bundles). Once you buy that bundle, you'll get a code or link or something that will allow you to buy tickets (probably limited to 2) from a pool reserved for this bundle.

I would not stake all your hopes on this bundle, as there may be glitches in the process. I think you should check the regular ticket outlets too, and if you can get tickets through that, go for it. The tickets are all GA, right? So, it's not like you're getting good seats or something from this offer. I think the only real benefit is the small discount on the CD or LP?

[woofmute]

Everyone managing to get tickets ok? Their main site was struggling, the townsend music's site seemed to be coping a little better though.

Edit: If you want roundhouse tickets, you're better off going straight to the Underworld shop page.

[kontakt1968]

Roundhouse told me tickets are not available direct you need to use the new link in the shop page not events , works fine , there is standing level 1 and level 2 ( gen access)and also allocated seating on level 2 . got tickets :D

[darkvoice]

Tickets Paradiso Amsterdam gone in 1 minute??? This wasn't the case for the Dubotour earlier this year. I guess lot of Festival touring made this band too populair to get tickets *&@^#@#*&^@#&* !

[mothra]

I have listened to the snippets a lot and must say I am really getting a good feeling, I like the bit on the first track where it sounds as though fluffy cheese is being killed! hopefully..... and anticipating the direction will be alot more progressive where Karls brill solo and colaboration stuff with Eno meets Rick and morphs into an Underworld epic roll on March

[amhilde]

Checking in after the excitement earlier this week. Tix secured this morning by 9:05 am for Berlin and Roundhouse (both nights). I don't collect physical format much anymore, so unless I really feel the need to own this on vinyl (and Underworld seem a lot more collectible than most), I am happy to spend more on the experience. Let us hope this tour includes Rick.

Regarding the clip - it took me way too long to realize it was actually clips of three songs :/ , and the first chunk is not really my bag. Loved the middle one for sure. I will have another listen or two this weekend.

Hurrah!

[Oxheart]

Thought it was a good time to finally register on this forum.
A great year to be an Underworld fan!
Tickets for the Roundhouse in the bag, a remaster of STITI to get my head around, and a fascinating evolution of the Underworld sound coming our way for the new album.

The album title is very Underworld, love it.

[TheBang]

Yeah, the title very much reminds me of when they wanted to use "Tonight Matthew, I'm going to be Underworld" for what eventually became Beaucoup Fish

[Dunwho]

Just putting this out there...

The second track on the Shining Future teaser has a drum track that is very similar in parts to 02-02-02 new mix that they released in 2008. It is a good bit slower but I think.. just maybe it is a similar sample, if only in part.

Just something I noticed and thought I would throw it out there for a laugh.

[khouri]

Bought a ticket for the second Roundhouse show. Had such a great time at the Dubno anniversary, I've decided I'm just going to start using underworld shows as an excuse to travel abroad.

[qirex]

Teaser

KRCnm7EuzLM

[potatobroth]

Teaser for the new track "Yeah"

https://youtu.be/KRCnm7EuzLM

woah. this just put a literal smile on my face. this + the other snippets makes me quite excited for March.\

Edit: can't help but notice there is no tracked titled, "Yeah"

[Dino3D]

What is this song actually?

[qirex]

What is this song actually?

When the youtube clip was originally uploaded it was just called "Underworld - Yeah - teaser - YouTube". I'm assuming a snippet of one of the new songs

[jetpig]

I regret listening to these snippets. The last one on the first teaser in particular I CAN NOT get enough of and I want all of it NOW. 4.5 months is far to long to wait. Also here's to hoping for another US date.

[King of Snake]

"Yeah"? More like "Meh" ...

[big screen satellite]

Im with KOS on this....

[potatobroth]

No way. Love this sound.

[holden]

Yeah that's good!

It's 14 seconds of who knows what. Relax!
Even if its part of a new track, that's a fine groove.

The video recalls Metal Friend for me...

[cdave2]

It works for me. Nice 'n' funky.

Roll on Christmas bonus, so I can order this thing!

[ThingInABook]

i noticed yesterday that Townsend made a refund yesterday for my preorder and today went to see if the order was still there, and it was. i wonder if anyone noticed this and if this is 'standard procedure' for preorders now (probably they're going to charge my card during march?)

also, funny thing - my past, random orders made with Townsend are there. quite fun to see a huge order i made in 2012 (King Creosote, SVIIB and Akira Kiteshi) there. the store is nothing more than the regular townsend store, with an U/W layout over it.

[TheBang]

i noticed yesterday that Townsend made a refund yesterday for my preorder and today went to see if the order was still there, and it was. i wonder if anyone noticed this and if this is 'standard procedure' for preorders now (probably they're going to charge my card during march?)

That's how credit card charges work. They do an authorization first, which reserves the funds on the card. If the charge is not "captured" within a couple days, the authorization falls off of the card, and the funds are freed up. For pre-orders, the authorization is just to make sure the payment information is valid, so it is not captured. The charge is re-run when the item actually ships.

[holden]

http://www.billboard.com/articles/news/dance/6785862/underworld-new-album-barbara-we-face-a-shining-future-interview

Nice read, explanation of album title and working process. This album should be very different sounding!

[Dino3D]

Anyway after a Shining Future part 1 preview I don't feel the album will be very different. I clearly hear old UW in it. So I don't understand what Karl talking about when he said the album will be very different. Even the line this album is a new beginning. I think the new beginning was Barking that really differs to the UW what we knew before.

[holden]

Anyway after a Shining Future part 1 preview I don't feel the album will be very different. I clearly hear old UW in it. So I don't understand what Karl talking about when he said the album will be very different. Even the line this album is a new beginning. I think the new beginning was Barking that really differs to the UW what we knew before.


Well, "Barking" was the first time they'd worked with outside producers, so yes, that's a change. Consider, though, that it's been 5+ years since "Barking", and Rick and Karl have each done their own thing, plus revisited the past, so this break between records, perhaps more than any, has involved contemplation of what UW was/is. Karl's comments that the band sort of knew after STITI where they fit in the electronic canon is telling. I love me some "Beacoup Fish", but it is much more singles--laden, more glossy than prior. "AHDO" is their first outing as a duo, but it wasn't drastically different. "OWB" was apparently the "record Rick always wanted to make", but it's even more refined and resigned. And "Barking"? Maybe it's telling that we'd heard a lot of the tracks in progress, but they needed outside help to finalize, maybe revitalize some tired ideas.
My feeling is that the RiverRun EPs were the last effort at breaking free of the "Underworld mantra" - such a nice variety of techno, electro, ambient, and released on their own terms.

But yeah, though the band has a lonnnng history, 5-6 years is still a long pause between records. I agree with you that at least two of the three t racks on the "Shining Future" preview seem reminiscent of their former sound, they are just snippets. If Karl claims they went quite left of field with instrumentation and improvisation, i have to believe him. Yeah, that interview isn't super concrete, but rarely is discussion of music as such. As long as R&K feel revitalized and proud of the album, i'm sure we will be, too.

[Mike]

http://www.billboard.com/articles/news/dance/6785862/underworld-new-album-barbara-we-face-a-shining-future-interview

Nice read, explanation of album title and working process. This album should be very different sounding!

A couple of things from this interview:

I’m working on another project at the moment, but also gathering ideas to go in the studio with Rick as soon as I get back to the U.K.

Some more material being written?

It’s great that Rick was using his voice a lot more on this record

No, it isn't!

It was something his (Rick's) father to his mother said not long before he passed away. “Barbara, Barbara we face a shining future.” His father was a great man, very inspiring and as soon Rick said that, before we got halfway through writing this material, it was just instant, “Yeah, that’s the title.”

So is the woman in that artwork Rick's mother?

[jetpig]

it makes me smile to hear rick sing :)

[TheBang]

I thought a couple of the "Yeah's" in the Yeah teaser might be Rick. Also, that might explain why Rick did backing vocals in Baby Wants to Ride, since he was already in the vocal mood.

[Troy McClure]

Hopefully this wasn't posted here earlier, but I saw this article today on Beatport.
https://news.beatport.com/us/underworld-signs-to-astralwerks-in-the-united-states/
.
...dance icons Underworld are releasing a new album in 2016. This morning, the duo also announced that they have signed with venerable US label Astralwerks, who will release the curiously titled LP Barbara Barbara, we face a shining future this March 18.“We’re really excited to be working with the team at Astralwerks,” Underworld’s Karl Hyde and Rick Smith said in a statement. “They’ve been a constant in the world of electronic music throughout our career and it’s fantastic to finally work with them on our new album.”
With the signing, Astralwerks continues its more than 20 year legacy of bringing UK dance music to the United States.

I didn't know this, but Astralwerks' parent company is Universal Music.

Jason

[Dunwho]

Delighted to have read that Billboard interview... I now actually don't care if I hate this next album... I don't care if it is nothing I want from an Underworld album... I would like very much to hear this because it looks set to be a very honest album from what Rick and Karl want to do.. not what they feel they have to do... and frankly not what anyone on here wants them to do.

Don't like Rick's singing? Don't like the cheesy sounds... dont like the slow songs... want more 4 to the floor? well screw it.. living in the past.

Let them move on and find new fans and interests... the fan base for Underworld Mk2/Mk3/Mk whatever is always going to change and develop.

Delighted. My expectations are changed completely and I have resolved to keep my mind open.

I hope I like it... but I won't be disappointed if I don't. Bout time people in this world let go of the past.

[holden]

Delighted to have read that Billboard interview... I now actually don't care if I hate this next album... I don't care if it is nothing I want from an Underworld album... I would like very much to hear this because it looks set to be a very honest album from what Rick and Karl want to do.. not what they feel they have to do... and frankly not what anyone on here wants them past.
Hear, hear!
I'm very nostalgic, but realize that this is romance for the past. Every new UW album ( and a few that weren't new as I bought them out of order in 2001) has challenged preconceptions, yet I've grown to love them all. Conforming? No, more like evolving.

Yet, in the Shining Future clip, part 1 I hear echoes of TMO (with Rick on vocals!)...big, brash and bright. Part 2 drives ahead like Momove, a simple pattern but effective. Part 3 marries EssGee and Louisiana.
I am sure we will t both comforted by familiarity and shaken by how R & K approach production a few years on.

[qirex]

Part 2 and 3? Is there news im not aware of?

[potatobroth]

Part 3 marries EssGee and Louisiana.

really? EssGee (UW's worst track) and Louisiana are both freeform, and beatless. This third snippet is grooving and awesome!

[holden]

It is grooving and awesome! But i think the sound of the vocal and guitar recalls those other songs. Obviously not the same, but the pitch of Karl's voice, the tone of the guitar are similar.

It's like, there are trademark sounds that bands repeat. Take the main synth loop of "King of Snake" - it's not that different from "Dino Adventure 3D".

But anyway, i'm glad they are trying new things. Regardless of whether we like it or not, you always know that R&K (&DP) put in the effort to turn out quality products, hence big gaps between records, long gestation for some songs. Only with the recent Hyde/Eno collabs did i feel that it was "rushed", and anyway, that's not UW.

[Dino3D]

Where are part 2 and 3???

[twicezero]

I'm assuming they mean how the club is made up of three main parts.

[holden]

I'm assuming they mean how the club is made up of three main parts.

Yes, just meant the three tracks featured in the promo clip.

[Dino3D]

It's time to show us the first single! :)

[holden]

Re: single...My guess is, it's coming after the new year, and its the "illuminate," first bit from the Shining promo.

Different enough to catch attention, but not so leftfield as to not be a hit...

[qirex]

Can anyone recommend the most cost effective way of purchasing the special edition? I just went to check out and it's $235.00 shipped to the US! ($90 just for shipping alone) Is it offered exclusively through the UW shop? Thanks

[TheBang]

So far, it appears that the Special Edition and the Book Edition are only available through the UW Shop. I'll see if I can get some confirmation if that's how it's going to be.

[Dino3D]

It's january, we want you tracks! :)

[qirex]

So far, it appears that the Special Edition and the Book Edition are only available through the UW Shop. I'll see if I can get some confirmation if that's how it's going to be.

That'd be great, thank you.

[jetpig]

Amazon US CD link: http://www.amazon.com/Barbara-We-Face-Shining-Future/dp/B018IEAFZ4/

Amazon US Vinyl: http://www.amazon.com/Barbara-We-Face-Shining-Future/dp/B0186J90RK

[Dirty0900]

Via Underworld Twitter:

New music tomorrow on @BBC6Music. In the meantime, have a listen to our @Spotify playlist, http://bit.ly/uwspotifyplaylist https://twitter.com/BBC6MorningShow/status/689069663276388352

[mark3]

Nice... Apparently it's 'I Exhale' we get to hear tomorrow

[TheBang]

Here's a picture of the Japan T-shirt

[Troy McClure]

High Contrast tweeted out after the premiere of 'I Exhale' that he's a co-producer for the album.

https://twitter.com/HighContrast/status/689413126773563392

--Jason

[marcolphus]

High Contrast tweeted out after the premiere of 'I Exhale' that he's a co-producer for the album.

https://twitter.com/HighContrast/status/689413126773563392

--Jason
Oh no :-(

[testudo]

Oh no :-(


OH MY... NO

[DaddyAdv]

High Contrast tweeted out after the premiere of 'I Exhale' that he's a co-producer for the album.

not again ... :(

[Dino3D]

After the first single and the song samples it can't be heard that HC is a co-producer so I don't care about it. Anyway Scribble is one of the world's best songs.

[khouri]

HC's Moon in Water on Barking is one of my favorite UW tracks ever, and I would welcome more along those lines. But "I Exhale" leaves something to be desired.

[Oxheart]

I Exhale is sweet. High Contrast is a talented producer who can turn his hand to lots of different styles. But he can certainly churn out party happy d&B when the bank manager needs him to

[skyscraper101]

Video is released here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4izZYfo58-E (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4izZYfo58-E)

Not really sure about I Exhale. It's a bit electro pop, LCD Soudsystem-esque. Not really my bag. Prefer the atmospheric synths, banging b-lines and techno beats of old. I really hope there it's not all like this on the album.

[testudo]

Scribble is one of the world's best songs. :confused:
uh...ummm... I LOVE "You Do Scribble"

[Cadevil]

Anyone know if the CD w/ book pack version ordered trough UW HQ website will include an available download on release day? I like the thought of the special edition, but DO NOT want to wait for it to get the states to hear the full album.

[qirex]

Anyone know if the CD w/ book pack version ordered trough UW HQ website will include an available download on release day? I like the thought of the special edition, but DO NOT want to wait for it to get the states to hear the full album.


It'l probably be on Spotify either way.

[TheBang]

Anyone know if the CD w/ book pack version ordered trough UW HQ website will include an available download on release day? I like the thought of the special edition, but DO NOT want to wait for it to get the states to hear the full album.
I don't believe the book version does. At least, not at this point. If you look at some of the other format listings, they explicitly say that it includes an MP3 download, and lists the individual audio tracks as included with the package. But the book one does not. It may just be an oversight, but I wouldn't count on it including the downloads the way it's currently listed.

[holden]

"Shining Future part 2" sampler appeared on Rhapsody this morning. I haven't seen an announcement elsewhere yet....Anyone else come across it?

Contains excerpts from "I Exhale", a nylon guitar number (Santiago Cuatro?) that morphs into a subtle blippy beats with a humming/chant underneath, and third track that has some comforting, echoed vocals, more acoustic guitar and a hypnotic synth pattern.

Overall, i'm pretty excited for this album. All the except tracks (save the first of pt 1 and "I Exhale") remind me very much of the mood of the RiverRun series.

[TheBang]

Preview here (if you're not a subscriber):

http://www.rhapsody.com/artist/underworld/album/shining-future-pt-2-single/track/shining-future-pt-2

Definitely Santiago Cuatro, with the guitar sounding very much like the radio show version.

[holden]

Preview here (if you're not a subscriber):

http://www.rhapsody.com/artist/underworld/album/shining-future-pt-2-single/track/shining-future-pt-2

Definitely Santiago Cuatro, with the guitar sounding very much like the radio show version.


Too funny...Rhapsody offers a 30 second sample of a sampler track! Reminds me of the radio show where UW played snippets of the new album (was it OWB?) that were seconds long, at best.

Full Shining Future pt 2 is 3:37. Listening on repeat on headphones, it's good!
Wonder why this made it to Rhapsody of all places without announcement?

(p.s. am i the only person left on earth with a Rhapsody account? It's not great, used to be better when you could purchase tracks, but now its essentially unlimited tracks on your device with monthly subscription).

[ultradave]

(p.s. am i the only person left on earth with a Rhapsody account?).

It's quite possible. FYI - It's up on Spotify now here in the States. :eek: (Headphones on - pressing play) I'm sure this will make its way to Soundcloud very soon.

[TheBang]

Yeah, agreed. I think it's just slowly rolling out across the platforms.

Here's the Spotify link:

https://player.spotify.com/album/797NuNHVTW349p9j9RpLRS

[mark3]

So does this mean that we have now heard snippets of all seven tracks from the album?
I really like all of it though.

[potatobroth]

Yeah, agreed. I think it's just slowly rolling out across the platforms.

Here's the Spotify link:

https://player.spotify.com/album/797NuNHVTW349p9j9RpLRS

the Play button is greyed out for me.

[TheBang]

Yeah, me too. It was working all day yesterday though, so it looks like it's been pulled. Maybe because it was posted prematurely.

[potatobroth]

yup. pulled across the entire web. damn, i missed it.

[mark3]

It was gone here too (Spotify) when I was searching for it, but then I found it under 'Recently Played'. And that still works

[holden]

Downloaded it. Like I said, it's good.

It is hard to get a feel when the snippets are short. But I like what I hear...

[potatobroth]

I'm sure it'll be up again soon.

[potatobroth]

ok now im wanting to hear it. i check this site everyday for over a decade and miss the one day a teaser drops. :)

[Dunwho]

ok now im wanting to hear it. i check this site everyday for over a decade and miss the one day a teaser drops. :)

Well you should be checking out the thread on the 6 music festival... you'd be able to hear most of the album there ;)

[holden]

Yep, all tracks except(?) "Motorhome" have made their appearance:

1. I Exhale --- single, LP version, remix out. BBC6 Festival
2. If Rah --- Shining Future 1 snippet; BBC6 Festival
3. Low Burn --- Shining Future 1 snippet; BBC6 Festival
4. Santiago Cuatro --- Shining Future 2 snippet (only up briefly); demo radio show 23 April 2008
5. Motorhome --- ???
6. Ova Nova --- Shining Future 1 snippet, BBC6 Festival
7. Nylon Strung -- Shining Future 2 snippet; BBC6 Festival

Snippets don't do the tracks justice, of course. Karl admits for the BBC6 gig, they were not rehearsed much and this was the first time playing them live. But to my ears, they sound amazing.

How will this album rate? Provisionally, i'm more excited about this set than Barking and Oblivion With Bells, anyway.

[TheBang]

FYI, I've heard from band management on a couple issues:

Can anyone recommend the most cost effective way of purchasing the special edition? I just went to check out and it's $235.00 shipped to the US! ($90 just for shipping alone) Is it offered exclusively through the UW shop? Thanks

The Book edition and Special Edition are exclusive to the Underworld Shop.

Anyone know if the CD w/ book pack version ordered trough UW HQ website will include an available download on release day?

This was apparently an oversight on the Shop listing for the book version, and all physical versions from the UW Shop will include MP3 downloads.

[Cadevil]

FYI, I've heard from band management on a couple issues:



The Book edition and Special Edition are exclusive to the Underworld Shop.



This was apparently an oversight on the Shop listing for the book version, and all physical versions from the UW Shop will include MP3 downloads.

The fulfillment company told me otherwise--that the book & CD version would NOT include a download. Hope the band can sort this out.

[gcoleman99]

(p.s. am i the only person left on earth with a Rhapsody account? It's not great, used to be better when you could purchase tracks, but now its essentially unlimited tracks on your device with monthly subscription).
No, you're not. I actually discovered this track before I saw this post.

[Milking Your Plastic]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Koqqpb2Idxc

Really loving Low Burn.

[crank]

FYI, I've heard from band management on a couple issues:



The Book edition and Special Edition are exclusive to the Underworld Shop.



This was apparently an oversight on the Shop listing for the book version, and all physical versions from the UW Shop will include MP3 downloads.


So shipping is really 90 dollars?

[spacejunk]

Is it reasonable to play Low Burn from BBC 6 on repeat for the last hour? I can't get it out of my head.

[2dreamofluv]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Smu0MaDKnYc

Part 2 preview is back up.

[potatobroth]

is Motorhome in that mix?

[Yannick]

is Motorhome in that mix?

0:00 = If Rah
0:53 = Santiago
1:54 = Motorhome
2:33 = Nylon

[Dino3D]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Smu0MaDKnYc

Part 2 preview is back up.


Fuck youtube tilt the videos...

[holden]

0:00 = If Rah
0:53 = Santiago
1:54 = Motorhome
2:33 = Nylon

O:00= I Exhale. If Rah led off Shining Future PT 1

As for motorhome, it blends so nicely in the mix, thought it was still Santiago Quatro. So it seems we have heard a preview of every track.

[Dirty0900]

Is the test pressing track getting a digital copy release if you buy it?

[hypeless]

Hope so, but if not - seems like it's the JPN bonus track:

http://www.cinra.net/news/20151124-underworld

[testudo]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Koqqpb2Idxc

Really loving Low Burn.

Ova nova for me!

[gcoleman99]

0:00 = If Rah
0:53 = Santiago
1:54 = Motorhome
2:33 = Nylon
It's also back up on Rhapsody, and probably most streaming services, too...

[potatobroth]

I hear a distinct Chemical Brothers sound (in a good way) in Motorhome. I can't pinpoint the exact track, but CB keep popping in my head when I hear it. Its beautiful.

[Andrea]

Thank you for sharing!
The synth at the end of the first song is like a punishment but there are some very beautiful tracks there.
Love to hear Quattro from the old U/W Radio Show. How man years ago was that?

[holden]

Love to hear Quattro from the old U/W Radio Show. How man years ago was that?

Santiago Quatro was played 23 April 2008. That's a pretty healthy gestation period, similar to Biro the Leggy/Beautiful Burnout, which iirc debuted in 2000, eventually released in 2007.

[jetpig]

We can go even further with gestations periods. The show that debuted biro also debuted bird1, which would go a full 10 years til seeing a proper release.

http://uwlive.rowla.com/gigs/view/187

[amhilde]

Yeah, Low Burn is giving me chills. Can't wait to hear it at proper album quality. Gonna need some time alone with that one to properly dissect it!

[BrotherLovesDub]

Does Karl actually repeat 'the rhythm' in one of the new songs? The lyric recycling is approaching parody now.

[holden]

Yeah, he does. In "Low Burn", as in "always loved a film". What else? Does twice constitute parody? Its rhythmic electronic music, after all. Give me a break. This is the best UW since AHDO and you're complaining about a repeated phrase...

[potatobroth]

its not as if Underworld's lyrics have all that deep of a meaning behind them - so even if a word or phrase was repeated its not like the song will have the same meaning.

[Yannick]

Are you ready for a big drug
Are you ready for a big mac

mega mega mega big mac, mega mega mega, big mac :p

[jetpig]

I'd even go so far as to say that reuse of lyrics across songs is within the realm of their sound and fits within their creative output. I mean, while not the same lyric, Cowgirl, Pearl's Girl, and Juanita all use the same technique of a repeated word as a musical element, and they all appear on EE!

[TheBang]

I will be severely disappointed if there are no waitresses on this album.

[potatobroth]

Had to pick a coworker up from the bus yesterday and i had the Electronic Beats interview playing. 2 minutes into the ride and Low Burn comes on. Coworker said: "this is dope, who is this?" Love it.

[34958hq439-qjw9v5jq298v5j]

Are you ready for a big drug
Are you ready for a big mac

mega mega mega big mac, mega mega mega, big mac :p

wow, please tell me this is an actual lyric on the album

[TheBang]

It's an actual lyric from Yannick's brain. Every day.

[Troy McClure]

https://www.instagram.com/p/BCFkefAwRoD/?taken-by=underworld

A few days back, Karl posted a picture to the band's Instagram feed of one of the autographed Barbara Barbara box sets


--- Jason

[qirex]

https://www.instagram.com/p/BCFkefAwRoD/?taken-by=underworld

A few days back, Karl posted a picture to the band's Instagram feed of one of the autographed Barbara Barbara box sets


--- Jason

Do they all come signed?

[TheBang]

Do they all come signed?
.

Special Edition Boxset
The first 100 copies of the Special Edition Boxset ordered from the Underworld Shop will be stamped, numbered, and signed.
Update: The signed/numbered copies have sold out on the first day of sale.

[lament]

it just leaked..

edit: so.. this is really good.

is it me or does If Rah sound like a spiritual cousin to Bruce Lee?

Also - and this may have been brought up - but have we talked about pages 18 and 20 of Book of Jam Volume 1 Number 1 being the new album cover?

[darkvoice]

Leaked? How did you find out?

[lament]

Leaked? How did you find out?

Private music torrent site..

[darkvoice]

Mysterieus place... :-)

[King of Snake]

Does Karl actually repeat 'the rhythm' in one of the new songs? The lyric recycling is approaching parody now.

I've been told they also still use repeated patterns of kick drums and hihats! PARODY! :D

[TheBang]

I hear a distinct Chemical Brothers sound (in a good way) in Motorhome. I can't pinpoint the exact track, but CB keep popping in my head when I hear it. Its beautiful.

OK, having listened to Motorhome now, yeah, definitely sounds similar in style and sound to a number of Chems tracks, but perhaps "Wonders of the Deep" in particular. But I hear a lot of High Contrast influence in there too.

[negative1]

i'm a little underwhelmed by the whole album (bad pun i know)... and the live versions etc.

but they were added to the discography listing. i will keep up with the remixes and add
extra tracks to the list once those are out too..

later
-1

[stimpee]

Motorhome is lush. Best song on the album by far. This is on a loop. That chord progression and -what is that instrument- at 4.30. its sublime.

[potatobroth]

Motorhome is lush. Best song on the album by far. This is on a loop. That chord progression and -what is that instrument- at 4.30. its sublime.

agreement.

[potatobroth]

always bums me out where their stuff ends up on a torrent site a month before release but such is the the way. just wish there wasn't a 3+ month lead-up to sales.

[stimpee]

For those of you that want to hear the album, theres an interview with Karl (a good interview), interspersed with 6 of the 7 album tracks, plus the Koze remix of I Exhale. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pd0wbuSbwZ0

1. Introduction - 00:00:00 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pd0wbuSbwZ0#)
2. If Rah - 00:00:53 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pd0wbuSbwZ0#)
3. Karl Hyde Interview #1 - 00:07:27 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pd0wbuSbwZ0#)
4. Low Burn - 00:10:10 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pd0wbuSbwZ0#)
5. Karl Hyde Interview #2 - 00:16:21 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pd0wbuSbwZ0#)
6. I Exhale - 00:17:09 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pd0wbuSbwZ0#)
7. Karl Hyde Interview #3 - 00:25:13 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pd0wbuSbwZ0#)
8. Santiago Cuatro - 00:27:52 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pd0wbuSbwZ0#)
9. Karl Hyde Interview #4 - 00:30:47 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pd0wbuSbwZ0#)
10. Ova Nova - 00:33:40 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pd0wbuSbwZ0#)
11. Karl Hyde Interview #5 - 00:38:27 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pd0wbuSbwZ0#)
12. Motorhome - 00:40:06 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pd0wbuSbwZ0#)
13. Karl Hyde Interview #6 - 00:45:48 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pd0wbuSbwZ0#)
14. I Exhale (DJ Koze Remix) - 00:49:20 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pd0wbuSbwZ0#)

If you want to hear Nylon Strung then check out the Bristol show from 6Music (about 57mins in). https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Koqqpb2Idxc

[potatobroth]

anyone know anything about the Japanese bonus track?

[potatobroth]

full playthru... man that felt short. i know that wont matter in a few days of listening as it will end mushed into all their other tracks. Could be because I'm not all that fond of I Exhale and see myself skipping the longest track on the album.

[testudo]

I'm not all that fond of I Exhale and see myself skipping the longest track on the album.

The remix is so much better, than the original... they should just play that out

[Dino3D]

Santiago is sadly just a boring filler. 7 tracks are too less to have fillers. :(

[hexagoneye]

Sadly i'm not really feeling the album as a whole, there are a few decent tracks but come on, 7 songs is too little and the quality just isn't what i'd hoped for. Where is the energy from the same group that brought us tracks like cowgirl, rez, king of snake etc? I know they didn't want to just churn out the same formula that people expect, but then i don't think any of these new tracks are particularly new or groundbreaking to be honest. It sounds like a tired Underworld to me and they haven't even released anything in 7 years :( Barking was considerably better and got a lot of play from me which i don't think this album will be getting.

"Pleasant" is about the best i can give this album. I'm not trying to be too harsh, very few groups can sustain classic albums again and again, it can;t be easy.

[potatobroth]

I Exhale and If Rah feel to me like they want to be Juanita/Kiteless style; one song that transforms. Exhale can be 3-4min, and then transition into If Rah.

Low Burn is quite pretty. Santiago is ok, but its not something I'll want to listen to after once or twice. Motorhome is gorgeous, fully fleshed-out, and chill. I love it. Ova Nova is pretty and has a nice thump to it. Nylon Strung is good.

So overall its a nice, super-short, album. I don't see myself playing this one cover-to-cover like STiTI, BF or Dubno. I'll prob. end up grabbing my 3 faves from BB and going with that.

Lastly, I don't think Exhale works at all live. After the initial drop, there's not much live going for it. Its not showcasing Karl or RIck, and its not evolving. Comparing Rick's "1 2 3 4!" of Downpipe from the Ibiza show to Rick's "1 2 3 4!" of I Exhale - its not even close. Downpipe crushes it.

[TheBang]

always bums me out where their stuff ends up on a torrent site a month before release but such is the the way.
Actually, they've been rather fortunate that way. Neither OwB nor Barking leaked before the Japanese release date.

anyone know anything about the Japanese bonus track?
Unfortunately, no. I have heard that of those who have heard it they think it might be the best track on the album.

full playthru... man that felt short.
Yeah, it is rather short. Certain tracks will be on repeat a lot for me, but there's not many to choose from.

[TheBang]

Did Rick seriously give us a techno Bo Diddley Beat in If Rah?

They've both expressed their admiration for Bo Diddley before. I'd be surprised if this is a complete coincidence.

[potatobroth]

Unfortunately, no. I have heard that of those who have heard it they think it might be the best track on the album.

How ridiculous would this be?

Are you sure about OwB? Pretty sure I had that prior to release but I could be mistaken. AHDO I remember was leaked eons before the official date.

[ultradave]

Twenty Three Blue (Japanese Bonus) - Best track on the LP?

How ridiculous would this be?

Good thing I pre-ordered my iTunes release via the Japanese store. :D

The only UW LP I was able to get a sneak listen to was Barking. I had that well before it was released officially. I purchase all my UW tracks, so I have no guilt lifting BB from a torrent. I will have to say I have mixed feelings on the LP. I was hoping for a little more. It starts off strong with I Exhale and then onto If Rah, but Low Burn and Santiago Cuatro (to me they sound more like B-Side tracks) - Don't get me wrong, they are both great tracks, but as part of the LP flow - they fit in oddly, especially Santiago... The good thing is that after these 2 tracks the LP progresses into a good flow. Motorhome is very chill and then it picks up on Ova Nova and Nylon Strung is a great closer, definitely one of my favourites on the LP. It makes me feel good like Best Mamgu Ever...

I may find myself growing more into this as I listen to it more. As for the Japanese bonus track, I'll have to wait until the 16th for that...

Update: After several more listens, I am diggin' this release. There's a lot going on musically which I do appreciate. Low Burn is really growing on me more too. Listening to Motorhome more too and it's like a throwback to the BF era (I loved that era). I'm really looking forward to their show this April in Pomona!!!

[marcolphus]

After three listens I also have mixed feelings. I Exhale is far too long and get boring after 3 minutes. If Rah is very good, Low Burn is brilliant, for me it's the only really Underworld-ish track on the album. Santiago and Motorhome are really ok, Ova Nova and Nylon Strung - not sure about these two, have to listen to them more.

Interesting thing: Santiago Cuatro is very similar to first movement of 'Odejście' a track made by polish prog-rock band SBB. Check it out: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KWE66yVxM4w

[dubman]

Further down the Adult Contemporary hole we go...

kidding.

kinda.

I was prepared to have a laugh at it but I'm getting friendly with it. I like this sound better than where OWB was aesthetically, and it's a damn sight better than pretty much anything on Barking (aside from Bird 1). it's low on the bpms, but there's a dignity in not trying to make hype tracks when you're fifty-seven years old. first two tracks are too goofball to advocate for, but they're fun and got in my head anyhow (i'm expecting some sort of 90s-style, 5fps video to accompany If Rah). Low Burn and Ova Nova are my takeaway "oh yes please" jams where i feel some ghost of a specific UW thrill, while Motorhome seems like the weakest link (a whole lot of chemical brothers done really cheesy and slowed down with some un-ignorably iffy words). the closer sounds like it'd go great live yet it's a bit empty in a strange way.

but more than anything I'm relieved this is free of crippling embarrassments like Ring Road or Boyx3 or half of Barking.

[ultradave]

Does anyone know who's singing the vocals with Karl on Nylon Strung? It could just very well be his own voice filtered through a vocoder, but it sounds feminine.

[testudo]

Does anyone know who's singing the vocals with Karl on Nylon Strung? It could just very well be his own voice filtered through a vocoder, but it sounds feminine.

I can almost guarantee it is Rick's daughter.

[TheBang]

Are you sure about OwB? Pretty sure I had that prior to release but I could be mistaken.
Yes. It's just the Japan release date was nearly 2 weeks before the rest of the world.

but more than anything I'm relieved this is free of crippling embarrassments like Ring Road or Boyx3 or half of Barking.
Sorry, Alan, we have to take back your forum curmudgeon card now.

[ultradave]

forum curmudgeon card

:D Thank you for hitting my funny bone with this post! LOL!!! :D

[dubman]

Yes


Sorry, Alan, we have to take back your forum curmudgeon card now.

pretty sure BLD took that championship belt from me awhile ago

[darkvoice]

Karl did say something about having 30 or 40 track with lots of vocals in the podcast interview. Curious about these tracks and what did NOT make the BB album though.

[potatobroth]

Karl did say something about having 30 or 40 track with lots of vocals in the podcast interview. Curious about these tracks and what did NOT make the BB album though.

I first thought that, but I now think he meant Vocal Tracks. There's no way they wrote 30-40 'songs' and then decided to make a 7 song album.

[qirex]

In all serious, in the digital age, why is there still japanese only exclusive tracks? Considering how short this album is that extra track would have been nice. This is the only band that I know that still does it

[pandamagic]

In all serious, in the digital age, why is there still japanese only exclusive tracks? Considering how short this album is that extra track would have been nice. This is the only band that I know that still does it

aphex twin had a japanese bonus track on "syro." and not just a throw-away one either - it was one of the album's best. though he was generous enough to release that track months later as a stand-alone single . . .

[potatobroth]

In all serious, in the digital age, why is there still japanese only exclusive tracks? Considering how short this album is that extra track would have been nice. This is the only band that I know that still does it

someone explained this once about having to do with the import and resulting album cost to Japanese customers. Its still dumb. Do movies in Japan get extra scenes? Books get extra chapters?

[darkvoice]

I first thought that, but I now think he meant Vocal Tracks. There's no way they wrote 30-40 'songs' and then decided to make a 7 song album.

Yeah I think you are right. Although I don't understand: BB is full of vocals. Maybe it's about songs like motorhome which they just used a single phrase to make the song instead of lot of different words...

[TheBang]

This is the only band that I know that still does it
Not at all.

As to why it's done, this article explains it. Although it was written in 2002, it's still relevant today:

http://www.melodicrock.com/industry/insidestory.html

Japan is one of UW's most important markets so they abide by the industry conventions.

[dubman]

In all serious, in the digital age, why is there still japanese only exclusive tracks? Considering how short this album is that extra track would have been nice. This is the only band that I know that still does it

plenty of bands still do.

the most hilarious one that i got totally burned on was when i bought the Japan version of SOPHIE and it turned out the bonus track wasn't even on the CD, it was just a download code. i kinda stared at it for awhile before getting over it because it's just a CD, but danggggg

[Troy McClure]

'Ova Nova' is streaming in full on NPR's website. There's a writeup about the guys, too.
http://www.npr.org/2016/03/07/468737177/songs-we-love-underworld-ova-nova

Jason

[Troy McClure]

The Underworldlive store has a promo pic of what the Special Edition set for 'Barbara, Barbara we face a shining future' looks like with all the content, similar to promo pics for the 'dubnobasswithmyheadman' and 'Second Toughest of the Infants'.

https://img.tmstor.es/underworld/26885.jpg


Jason

[hypeless]

Held off on ordering the album because shipping the special edition stateside is 60 pounds...

But with the comments about the Japanese bonus track possibly being the best one of the album, ordered the JP CD.

I'd been listening to the 6 music festival set while at work, and actually am really enjoying the new material. Not what I wanted or hoped for, but really enjoying it all the same :)

[Drix]

The album is growing on me, and I quite like that they have taken it down a notch both in bpm and energy. I was ready for something new, but I agree it's too short and that I Exhale is a boring choice for a song to stretch out.. Hope the JP bonus is great as some people say it is.

Look forward to seeing them live this summer! The BBC6 show sounded great, although the show and visuals were a bit too low key. Hope they spice it up for festival season.

[potatobroth]

As usual, I'll just download the bonus track. I tried to pay for Farmcoat the proper way, and to this day my iTunes still asks me to verify its location - even after i deleted the track. I'll never make that mistake again.

[ultradave]

As usual, I'll just download the bonus track. I tried to pay for Farmcoat the proper way, and to this day my iTunes still asks me to verify its location - even after i deleted the track. I'll never make that mistake again.

If you log into your iTunes Japan account you should have no problems listening to the track. The problem is, back then the 128kbps iTunes tracks were locked with DRM. The iTunes Plus format now is unlocked so you'll have no problems with playback.

I have iTunes accounts for US, UK, Japan & Mexico... :D

[Badger]

Really want to hear "Twenty Three Blue" now...

[dubman]

been quietly obsessed with this and will have to, as usual, walk back at least half of the brash statements i made about it.

[Troy McClure]

There was an email sent out this morning that says there will be a slight delay in the delivery of the special edition boxset. The email text is below:


Thank you for ordering the Special Edition of Underworld’s Barbara Barbara, we face a shining future.

We have been working hard to make sure you have a beautiful package which we are really happy with.

Unfortunately there was an error with the slipcase which we weren’t happy with so they had to be re-made which means there will be a slight delay on delivery of your special edition.

You will still receive a download of the album on release and we are very sorry about the delay but are confident you will really enjoy the package when it arrives.

Thank you as always for your support.

[qirex]

There was an email sent out this morning that says there will be a slight delay in the delivery of the special edition boxset. The email text is below:


Thank you for ordering the Special Edition of Underworld’s Barbara Barbara, we face a shining future.

We have been working hard to make sure you have a beautiful package which we are really happy with.

Unfortunately there was an error with the slipcase which we weren’t happy with so they had to be re-made which means there will be a slight delay on delivery of your special edition.

You will still receive a download of the album on release and we are very sorry about the delay but are confident you will really enjoy the package when it arrives.

Thank you as always for your support.

I passed on that edition because of the $230 price, would love a review from someone

[testudo]

Really want to hear "Twenty Three Blue" now...

You know what would be really nice of Underworld, to release this MP3 to all who ordered the special edition because we have to wait longer for the item ;)

[darkvoice]

Thank you for shopping at CDJapan. We shipped your order today.

On average, it takes 1-3 weeks for delivery for this shipping method.
*May take up to 12 weeks

Please not 12 weeks...

[BishBash]

The Guardian (http://www.theguardian.com/music/2016/mar/14/underworld-barbara-barbara-we-face-a-shining-future-exclusive-album-stream)has an "exclusive album stream" today. Though funnily enough, some other websites around the world also have this album stream. Maybe they meant exclusive for the UK.
It'd be nice to find a Japanese stream with the bonus track...

[ultradave]

I just can't pay $230 for a single LP... it'll just sit with the others... barking, dubno, stiti...

after several listens... i am enjoying the flow of this LP more and more. it is a definite change of pace. even though i pre-ordered the Japan iTunes version (for the bonus track - obviously). i am glad they mastered the LP for iTunes (at least will get a better copy than just a CD rip). i did pre-order the US Vinyl on Amazon for $20 to satisfy my latest vinyl fetish... :D

i'll shell out the extra quid for the beaucoup fish super deluxe if that ever comes to light... :cool:

[BishBash]

Really want to hear "Twenty Three Blue" now...

The wind is coming, wait
Time moves slowly on the island

...and other non-sequiturs spoken by Karl over a slow-ish beat. I'm not sure there's much of a song in here, but I like the menacing bass hum and the treated guitar sound. I guess moody would be one way to describe it. But then I've only heard 90 seconds of it on the itunes Japan preview.
Based in the UK, I have switched my itunes country from GB to JP, but I'm not sure I can buy the album on Japanese itunes without a Japanese registed credit card. Am I wrong? Is there a trick to this?

[ultradave]

I'm not sure I can buy the album on Japanese itunes without a Japanese registed credit card. Am I wrong? Is there a trick to this?

Yes. PM. Me.

btw - Japan iTunes d/l is ready now...

[mark3]

You can buy a voucher for iTunes Japan - loads of them on eBay

[potatobroth]

and now 23 blue instantly reminded me of the Orbital song on The Beach soundtrack.

(from the snippet i liked it tho.)

[qirex]

The 1:30 snippet of 23Blue from Itunes.jp sounds awesome, I can't wait to get my hands on the full track.

[Dino3D]

Oh my F-God!! 23 Blue is the best track on album! Definitely buy the japan CD.

[Dino3D]

Has the japan UW albums got the original english booklet with the original artwork, or japan UW CDs have japanese booklets, with different artworks?

Thanks!

[potatobroth]

if anyone is feeling friendly... :)

[TheBang]

Usually, the album artwork and packaging in Japan is pretty much the same as anywhere else, but they put all the Japanese-specific on an obi strip which wraps around the spine of the release. I don't know about this specific album, but it's probably like that.

[Dino3D]

Usually, the album artwork and packaging in Japan is pretty much the same as anywhere else, but they put all the Japanese-specific on an obi strip which wraps around the spine of the release. I don't know about this specific album, but it's probably like that.

Thanks!

[darktrain]

if anyone is feeling friendly... :)

ditto:o

[testudo]

ditto:o

Here here

[potatobroth]

i cant believe im considering paying another $25 for one song because im not finding 23b anywhere else. just when i thought i was above that.... :P

[Spooky Shoes]

24 Bit Japanese Edition...

http://ototoy.jp/_/default/p/60988

[potatobroth]

cant figure it out. just want the one track.

[potatobroth]

ah, snagged it. its lovely.

[scary man]

ah, snagged it. its lovely.

Gah! How did you buy the one track? I keeps making me get the whole album. What's the trick?

[darkvoice]

Check this link: https://www.wasabeat.com/tracks/1206153-underworld-twenty-three-blue-bonus-track-for-japan-original

Also 1.30 sample.. Indeed great stuff!

[Dirty0900]

Don't like that Japan only track. Sounds like a horrible early demo for Spoonman with Dark and Long chucked in.

[ultradave]

Listening to the LP in 24-bit is a beautiful thing... :cool:

[dubman]

Don't like that Japan only track. Sounds like a horrible early demo for Spoonman with Dark and Long chucked in.
neither of those comparisons make any sense

it's like sola sistim but good.

[Maethodik]

Just found a Flac version of 23B. Really. For me is the best one. It seems that this one wasn't touched by High Contrast. And it's a good thing..

[potatobroth]

I know 23b will likely never get played live, but it would be wicked!

[TheBang]

According to the back cover (http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51drbBx-5kL.jpg), Esme and Tyler provided additional vocals on If Rah, Motorhome, Ova Nova, and Nylon Strung.

[potatobroth]

ok, 23B works REALLY well after Santiago. With this track added in, the album feels way more complete to me.

[potatobroth]

must be started, the addition of this track has completely changed my listening of the album. I no longer skip Santiago as it perfectly flows into this gorgeous, raw, layered track. just blows my mind that it wasn't included in the album proper. It makes the album jump up an entire letter-grade for me.

(i still skip I Exhale 90% of the time.)

[testudo]

My favorite track on the LP: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rviXy-7zMgQ

Ha! but seriously I keep playing 23B and this new Sasha track back to back... they work well together.

[Cadevil]

Check this link: https://www.wasabeat.com/tracks/1206153-underworld-twenty-three-blue-bonus-track-for-japan-original

Also 1.30 sample.. Indeed great stuff!

What's the trick to buying this???

I was able to add the track to my cart, but as soon as I created an account, it will not let me buy it....

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

[Cadevil]

What's the trick to buying this???

I was able to add the track to my cart, but as soon as I created an account, it will not let me buy it....

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

A PM from anyone on how to purchase from one of these Japanese sites would be greatly appreciated.

thanks.

[potatobroth]

What's the trick to buying this???

I was able to add the track to my cart, but as soon as I created an account, it will not let me buy it....

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

My hunch is that it was "album only" from this site. I tried it

[skyscraper101]

Growing on me now.

I'm still missing the pad-synths and dark 4/4 beats of old but I'm enjoying it on the second and third listens.

[Flywaver]

Can play the bonus track here..Stream only..
http://flacit.com/album/225434/Underworld_Barbara_Barbara,_We_Face_A_Shining_Futu re_(Deluxe_Edition)_2016

[dubnobasswithme]

My hunch is that it was "album only" from this site. I tried it

Is this the sort of thing that calls for a Japan-based VPN?

[Dunwho]

Lush. Bass. New. Happy. Right. Development. Exploring. Positive. Exciting. Uplifting.

[potatobroth]

Is this the sort of thing that calls for a Japan-based VPN?

dunno. i gave up trying from them and found elsewhere.

[Cadevil]

dunno. i gave up trying from them and found elsewhere.

May I ask where?

[Dino3D]

Has anybody saw the japan CD? I want to the see the booklet, the back cover.

[Troy McClure]

On the underworld live website, the special edition box now shows release date of next Friday, March 25th. Hope that's not delayed any longer.

Jason

[qirex]

Special Edition is now Sold Out FYI

[Dino3D]

Anyone have the japanese CD? It would be good to be know about the packiging, booklet...etc. Mine is still on the way.

[vflow]

Excellent album!
For me, Twenty Three Blue works best between Low Burn (what a track) and Santiago Cuatro.

Nylon Strung should be a single. But please, NO REMIXES. Just a couple of 23B-like outtakes for b-sides.

[Dino3D]

For me Low Burn is the highlight of the album. Reminds me of Orbital's heavenly techno.

[pandamagic]

Anyone have the japanese CD? It would be good to be know about the packiging, booklet...etc. Mine is still on the way.

http://i.imgur.com/o2Lmcyg.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/UfwbwMn.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/LT53Q6X.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/ikqpvx5.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/3ABxvzN.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/iWaweDf.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/MlmSQna.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/Us0jeFO.jpg

I'm really into this packaging. Miles better than Barking and A Hundred Days Off.
The button was a nice surprise too - not sure if it's just included with the Japanese release or if it comes with all orders . . .

[bazwint]

The button was a nice surprise too - not sure if it's just included with the Japanese release or if it comes with all orders . . .

No button but I got a sticker (front cover design) with my copy.

[Dino3D]

Thanks for the photos! Can't wait for my copy!!!

[pandamagic]

I'm quite glad I shelled out the $$$ for the Japanese release - I seem to be one of the few people who actually prefers "twenty three blue" as the last track. "nylon strung" is a very uplifting, sincere track (almost basic, even) so I appreciate how "23 blue" just comes along and undercuts all of that with its dark descent into the abyss. It really problematizes the whole experience of the album and makes it a less straightforward listen, which I find intriguing. It's like "nylon strung" is the euphoric climax and "23 blue" is the ruthless comedown, leaving you a bit unsettled but satisfied in knowing that you made it all the way to the end of the journey.

[Dino3D]

I'm quite glad I shelled out the $$$ for the Japanese release - I seem to be one of the few people who actually prefers "twenty three blue" as the last track. "nylon strung" is a very uplifting, sincere track (almost basic, even) so I appreciate how "23 blue" just comes along and undercuts all of that with its dark descent into the abyss. It really problematizes the whole experience of the album and makes it a less straightforward listen, which I find intriguing. It's like "nylon strung" is the euphoric climax and "23 blue" is the ruthless comedown, leaving you a bit unsettled but satisfied in knowing that you made it all the way to the end of the journey.

Totally agree! 23 is the perfect closer. Nylon is not like a proper closer track, it's too uplifting and leave the album as an open case.

[Dino3D]

I especially love that the japan's back cover doesn't mention 23 as a bonus track (just on the obi strip), so it feels like more a proper album track. :)

[ThingInABook]

hello, i came to float.

in fact, i decided to appear today cos i got my book+cd version yesterday (i used to wait months for my underworld records and now...). when i opened the mailer, the first thing i read was:

"written & recorded in Essex & Chile"

look at that. my fave band recorded in my home country and i had no idea. i was totally freaking out. look at me, a regular adult hugging a record somewhere in montreal. so yeah, when i got back home, i realized that the things i used to point and laugh from the record (the luna, luna, luna lyrics and the "santiago cuatro" name) made loads of sense.

The "luna, luna, luna/in love with" in If Rah might be a direct translation of the chrous of this song:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X7wSO8TlD7Y

luna, luna, luna/tu sabes que la quiero (moon, moon, moon/you know i love her)

so yeah, this is a popular song in chile, i think it's played in every party. i know the lyrics by heart, i'm not joking. it's an old saund song (saund is the phonetic pronunciation of the word "sound", which was popular genre of tropical music during the '90s) and some people even chant the chorus when they see a full moon (me included). probably karl overheard the lyrics somewhere.

also, i said during my rants in twitter of how much i dislike Barbara, Barbara that Santiago Cuatro sounds like a Nueva Musica Chilena/Neofolklor track, cos it honestly sounds like that. oh yeah, another coincidence.

i think i've overlooked Barbara for what it is. i think i'm gonna sit down, shut up and listen the thing during the weekend.

[Dunwho]

That is a fantastic bit of information that gives a whole new light to Karl's lyrics and further links to Chile. Thanks for that, really fantastic! Would never have known :)