Blues Funeral, the first Mark Lanegan Band record in 9 years, was released back in February. It was recorded in Hollywood, California by Alain Johannes at his 11ad studio, and saw appearances from Greg Dulli and Josh Homme among an assorted cast of long-term Lanegan affilates. The first single to be taken from the album was a perfect entry point with its fearsome rhythm section, that distinctive vocal growl and was accompanied by a video that dripped suitably with Soutern Gothic undertones. Watch the video here. The band went on to tour the world throughout the year, culminating in a sold out show at the Forum in London in early December.
Following the release of Blues Funeral back in February, Mark Lanegan Band have recorded four songs for the thirteenth installment in the 4AD Sessions series.
Pull Studios in Manhattan's Hudson Square played understated host to a session that leans heavily on Mark's indelible voice and undeniable presence, as well as the intensity and precision of his band. Filmed during a break in rehearsals for a New York City show that was to herald the release of the album, the session captures a band fully sharpened and itching to hit the road (US dates begin May 10 and are listed here).
“A masterpiece.” - Word
“It’s all brilliant.” - NME 8/10
“Darkly majestic.” The Independent 5/5
“Lanegan’s most accessible to date.” - Uncut 4/5
“His own career-best collection, Lanegan’s time has come.” Daily Telegraph 5/5
“It’s the curveballs rather than the reliable Laneganisms that make Blues Funeral such a powerful return.” - Q 4/5
“No other singer of his generation plumbs the depths so credibly, or does mournful with such grace.” - MOJO – Album of the Month 5/5
Premiered last week by Q magazine and Consequence of Sound, the video for ‘The Gravedigger’s Song”, the latest single from Mark Lanegan Band, is now available to watch online.
Conceived and created by Alistair Legrand for The Masses, the director revealed his inspiration behind the video:
“Inspired by the song, I wanted to create something dark and elegant that took place inside of a haunted house. That’s just what the song sounded like to me; a dream-like world of...
Mark Lanegan Band releases Blues Funeral on February 6th 2012, Lanegan's first album since 2004's Bubblegum. It was recorded in Hollywood, California with Alain Johannes and features guest appearances from the likes of Josh Homme, Greg Dulli and Jack Irons.
Today, the artwork and tracklisting for Blues Funeral has been unveiled, and the opening track 'The Gravedigger's Song' - premiered last night on US west-coast radio - can now be downloaded below.