Pet Shop Boys. Photo by Alasdair McLellan
The term “nonetheless” embodies a certain resilience in thought and language, embodying an acknowledgment of reality’s complexities without succumbing to cynicism or defeatism. The term is a linguistic expression of enduring optimism and the ability to perceive and appreciate the multifaceted nature of life’s experiences. It is, in short, the perfect word embodying the extraordinary career of Pet Shop Boys, who have just released the new single Loneliness. Although the younger set might not get the reference to A Hard Day’s Night, the feeling of isolation is universal throughout all the generations currently battling it out on social media, those masking their true identities, and those succumbing to peer pressure in modern times.
Pet Shop Boys continue to prove their timeless relevance with their latest melancholic disco track, maintaining their status as synthpop icons. Their enduring ability to produce music that is both sardonically uplifting and innovative keeps them at the forefront of the genre, consistently inspiring fans and artists alike with their fresh, creative approach. In the past few months alone, Pet Shop Boys have been covered by Sally Shapiro, The Heroic Enthusiasts, Sleaford Mods, TR/ST with Jake Shears, Some Ember, and even served as a pillory of shame the infamous Saltburn karaoke scene.
Directed by Alasdair McLellan, the video for Loneliness is a compelling portrayal of the concealed lives of young men grappling with their sexuality, depicted through secret meetings in bathrooms and the exchange of covert notes through glory holes. It artfully captures their yearning for one another, juxtaposed with the public denial of their true emotions, weaving a sorrowful tale of hidden desires and the pain inflicted by their duplicity on everyone involved. Neil and Chris appear in the video – wise, paternal, asking these people if the pain of lies under social pressure is worth it.
It is, in short, Pet Shop Boys at their best.
Nonetheless is set to drop on April 26th via Parlophone, with the launch being celebrated through five exclusive shows at the Royal Opera House in London. James Ford took the helm in production, mainly operating from his studio in East London.
Tracklist:
PET SHOP BOYS – 2024 TOUR DATES
May 2024
June 2024
July 2024
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