Talking Heads frontman David Byrne will release Who Is the Sky?, his first new album since 2018’s award-winning American Utopia.
The album, set for release September 5th, was produced by the Grammy-winning Kid Harpoon (a.k.a. Tom Hull), with 12 songs were arranged by the members of New York-based chamber ensemble Ghost Train Orchestra.
In addition, the new album also features guest appearances from Paramore’s Hayley Williams, frequent collaborator St. Vincent, The Smile and Sons of Kemet drummer Tom Skinner, and American Utopia percussionist Mauro Refosco.
Byrne said in a statement: “I’ve found that when the time comes, it’s easier to start if there’s a little stockpile. And before too long there was. Very rudimentary songs began to emerge, with just me on acoustic guitar singing over a programmed loop or beat … I suspected that intimate orchestral arrangements would bring out the emotion I sense is there in these songs… At the same time, I also see myself as someone who aspires to be accessible. I imagined that Kid Harpoon would help with that. Every new set of songs, every song even, is a new adventure. There’s always a bit of, ‘How do I work this?’ I’ve found that not every collaboration works, but often when they do, it’s because I’m able to clearly impart what it is I’m trying to do. They hopefully get that, and as a result, we’re now joined together heading to the same unknown place.”
In addition, Byrne has announced an extensive world tour and shared the lead single, “Everybody Laughs.” The multi-leg world tour will hit cities in North America, Australia, New Zealand, and Europe, featuring 13 musicians, singers and dancers, including members of the American Utopia band.
See the video for ‘Everybody Laughs’ – HERE.
Pre-order Who Is the Sky? – HERE.
For tour information, head HERE.
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