About this item

Young Fathers - Alloysious Massaquoi, Kayus Bankole and G. Hastings - announce details of their brand new album Heavy Heavy. Set for release on February 3rd 2023 via Ninja Tune, it’s the group’s fourth album and their first since 2018’s album Cocoa Sugar. The 10-track project signals a renewed back-to-basics approach, just the three of them in their basement studio, some equipment and microphones: everything always plugged in, everything always in reach.

Speaking about the title, the band write that Heavy Heavy could be a mood, or it could describe the smoothed granite of bass that supports the sound… or it could be a nod to the natural progression of boys to grown men and the inevitable toll of living, a joyous burden, relationships, family, the natural momentum of a group that has been around long enough to witness massive changes.

“You let the demons out and deal with it,” reckons Kayus of the album. “Make sense of it after.”

For Young Fathers, there’s no dress code required. Dancing, not moshing. Hips jerking, feet slipping, brain firing in Catherine Wheel sparks of joy and empathy. Underground but never dark. Still young, after some years, even as the heavy, heavy weight of the world seems to grow day by day.

STAFF COMMENTS

Liam says: Young Fathers have always remained an euphoric and life affirming outlet during turbulent times and with 'Heavy Heavy' this is no different. With huge choruses and exquisite instrumentation that dabbles in neo-soul, hip-hop and avant-pop, 'Heavy Heavy' is just a flat out joyous listen. Main highlight is the massive and awe-inspiring 'Geronimo' - incredible stuff!

TRACK LISTING

01. Rice
02. I Saw
03. Drum
04. Tell Somebody
05. Geronimo
06. Shoot Me Down
07. Ululation
08. Sink Or Swim
09. Holy Moly
10. Be Your Lady