New York disco-house troupe Hercules And Love Affair are due to release their new album ‘Blue Songs’ on January 31st.
Hercules & Love Affair were formed by Andy Butler, who had been urged to focus on his songwriting. Fans included DFA Records and Antony Hegarty, both of whom swooned at his house inspired tracks.
Recruiting a number of musicians, the band’s debut album was a startling release. Hercules & Love Affair were joined by a number of guest vocalists, including a sensational turn from Antony Hegarty on ‘Blind’.
Since 2008, though, new material has been thin on the ground. Andy Butler focussed instead on his DJing, with the band’s live show giving way to solo projects from singer Nomi.
A new track sneaked out on a DJ mix from Butler, demonstrating that Hercules & Love Affair had lost none of their potency. Returning to the studio earlier this year, the New York collective have completed their second album.
‘Blue Songs’ is set to be released on January 31st, ending a two year wait for new material. Parting company with DFA – in the UK at least – the album is set to be released on cult imprint Moshi Moshi.
The band are set to be joined by a raft of guest vocalists, with Bloc Party singer Kele Okereke adding his voice to ‘Step Up’. Elsewhere, Venezuelan singer Aerea Negrot appears while the unknown Shaun Wright has also taken part in sessions.
American release details have yet to be confirmed, though the tracklisting has been unveiled. Opening with ‘Painted Eyes’ the album seems to retain a euphoric feel, with ‘Answers Come In Dreams’ and ‘It’s Alright’.
Hercules & Love Affair are set to release ‘Blue Songs’ on January 31st. Tracklisting:
1. Painted Eyes
2. My House
3. Answers Come in Dreams
4. Leonora
5. Boy Blue
6. Falling
7. I Can’t Wait
8. Step Up
9. Visitor
10. It’s Alright
