The classic single ‘Things Can Only Get Better’ from D:Ream has constantly resurfaced to become a cultural phenomenon: first as a mega hit with four weeks at #1 and a BRIT Award nomination, then ushering in New Labour, before soundtracking lockdown and sneaking into Rishi Sunak’s election announcement. It then became the surprise hit of Glastonbury 2024 when they were joined by original keyboardist, Professor Brian Cox. But there was far more to them than just that, with two further Top 10 hits and another six Top 40 singles – plus two Top 5 albums, including their Platinum-certified debut.
Now D:Ream are set for rediscovery with the news that they will release their new album ‘Do It Anyway’ on July 25th via a new deal with Chrysalis. The duo – Peter Cunnah and Al Mackenzie – launch the record by sharing its title track as their new single. Listen HERE.
The single ‘Do It Anyway’ is a buoyant electro-pop bop that artfully draws from the ‘80s, ‘90s and 2020s. Peter first came up with the backing track thirty years ago when he pitched a song to Kylie Minogue. That uncompleted demo remained in the archives for years until Al discovered it, loved its Human League-style synths, and came up with the nostalgia-bait, no-regrets lyrics, “Smoke-filled rooms and warehouse parties” and “Four-to-the-floor and you know what the score is.”
The wider ‘Do It Anyway’ album – just their fifth, despite their long history – captures the pair’s hunger, defiance and ongoing creativity. Its core is dance and electronica with a pop-leaning accessibility, adorned at various points with electro-funk, trip-hop, broken beats and gospel flourishes.
Collectively it’s a set which brings fresh sonic elements and contemporary cultural references into the heart of the D:ream sound. Those themes cast their net across the modern zeitgeist. ‘The Geek Who Rules The Rules’ is a satirical barb directed at the oligarchs whose wealth gives them unprecedented power, while ‘Anthem For Change’ targets political corruption. There are more playful topics too. ‘Funk U Up’ is pure lustful party vibes and ‘Famous For Nothing’ explores the culture of celebrities whose sole skillset is being in the public eye.
Comments are closed.