sleaford mods have stepped in to cover Pet Shop Boys’ immortal synth-pop banger ‘West End Girls’.
The duo have enjoyed a storming year, releasing their stellar studio album ‘UK Grim’ in full. Hitting the road this Winter, a full UK run culminates in a no doubt memorable night at London’s Alexandra Palace on December 2nd, joined by John Grant, Big Special, with DJ sets from Stewart Lee and Hot Chip.
Alongside this, sleaford mods have unveiled plans for a festive project. From one UK duo to another – they’ve covered Pet Shop Boys.
Interpreting ‘West End Girls’ in their own unique style, the cover is on streaming now, with a physical version to follow on December 15th. Alongside the cover, you’ll find an acid house via Hi-NRG remix from the redoubtable Hifi Sean, while the band’s own Andrew Fearn has crafted a vocoder led, Italo flavoured mix under his solo guise of Extnddntwrk.
“‘West End Girls’ is a song that’s very close to my heart, my coming-of-age track in so many ways,” says Andrew Fearn
All proceeds from the single will be donated to Shelter’s Christmas fund. Band mate Jason Williamson adds: “We wanted to do something for Shelter again in the run up to Christmas so felt why not join up the two things. Their work all year round is so important and – unfortunately, considering the state of the country –needed more than ever. We are pleased proceeds from the single can go to them, and if you are coming to a show and can afford to make a donation, then Andrew and I really appreciate it too.”
Dig deep and get involved with Shelter online.
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For their part, Pet Shop Boys strongly approve of the cover, offering; “Sleaford Mods have brought East End boys back to the West End streets for a great cause and we love their new version…”
“It’s amazing that Sleaford Mods have chosen to support Shelter again this year with the release of their cover of West End Girls,” says Sarah Stickings, Shelter’s Senior Community Fundraising Area Manager of the latest collaboration.
“We’re also grateful that they’ll be collecting donations to Shelter at their UK tour dates. The housing emergency means that more than 131,000 children will be homeless over Christmas. We’re outraged that this is still a reality in England and so thankful for the support from Sleaford Mods and their fanbase as we continue our fight for home this winter.”
Renowned photographer Ewen Spencer has crafted the video, which will be online shortly.
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Photo Credit: Ewen Spencer