The Stranglers have shared an emotional tribute to late bandmate Dave Greenfield as they announced a new album.
And If You Should See Dave is the first single from Dark Matters, which will be released on September 10.
The song, written after the much-missed keyboard player died a year ago from Covid-19, received its first play this week from BBC 6Music.
Greenfield features on eight of the 11 tracks on the album, which is The Stranglers’ first since 2012.
Fitting tribute
Bassist JJ Burnel said: “A year ago on May 3rd my great friend and colleague of 45 years, Dave Greenfield, passed away, another victim of the pandemic.
“We had already recorded most of the album with him, and during the lockdowns our only wish was to complete it, as a fitting tribute to his life and work.
“I consider this to be one of our finest recordings.”
Burnel and Baz Warne completed Dark Matters remotely during lockdowns, then added their tribute to Greenfield.
It’s a contemplative but uplifting dose of ’60s sunshine-drenched rock, and is available to stream from Friday, May 14.
The other tracks were recorded over two years at the band’s studios in Somerset, and in Southern France, produced by long-time collaborator Louie Nicastro.
A key member of The Stranglers for 45 years, Greenfield was a highly acclaimed keyboardist whose unique approach and instantly identifiable playing style massively contributed to the group’s inimitable sound.
His contributions set the band apart from their peers and his skills are imprinted across Dark Matters.
Formed in 1974, The Stranglers’ attitude was embraced by the late ’70s punk movement, though their musicianship transcended the genre.
Dark Matters is on the band’s own Coursegood imprint, via Absolute, and is available to pre-order from all good record stores.
The Stranglers official store has a variety of special items, from a limited-edition cassette album to limited edition red/black smoke-coloured heavyweight vinyl.
Tribute CD
All pre-orders for the album through the official store will receive a special bonus CD, Dave Greenfield – A Tribute.
It features eight unreleased live recordings, selected by the surviving members, to celebrate Greenfield’s unique talent.
It includes two of the new tracks performed by Dave, four songs with him on vocals, and one of the last recordings featuring him, from their 2019 Japanese tour.
Dark Matters – Track listing
- Water
- This Song
- And If You Should See Dave…
- If Something’s Gonna Kill Me (It Might As Well Be Love)
- No Man’s Land
- The Lines
- Payday
- Down
- The Last Men On The Moon
- White Stallion
- Breathe
The Stranglers previously announced their full final tour of the UK and Europe, and decided to go ahead with it in Dave’s memory.
