Scotland’s own Franz Ferdinand have shared the lead single from their first new full-length record in seven years. Released today (Sept. 11), “Audacious” offers an elevated version of the bold, effortless blend of indie rock and art-pop that first launched them to stardom two decades ago.
“It’s about having an audacious response when you feel the fabric of existence come undone around you,” frontman Alex Kapranos shares of the song. “Being bold, contrary. Peering over the edge into the eternity of non-existence and saying Aye! F*** it! Not today, thank you!”
“Don’t stop feeling audacious / There’s no one to save us / So just carry on,” the band proclaims in the tune’s hypnotic chorus. “And don’t go blaming the nеighbors / You know they’re the samе as us / We should just get on, get on.”
“Audacious” is an intriguing preview of Franz Ferdinand’s upcoming sixth studio album, The Human Fear, due out on Jan. 10 via Domino. Bandmates Kapranos, Bob Hardy (bass), Dino Bardot (guitar), Audrey Tait (drums), and Julian Corrie (guitar/synth/keys) pushed themselves in new directions creatively when crafting the 11-track LP.
“Making this record was one of the most life-affirming experiences I’ve had, but it’s called The Human Fear,” explains Kapranos. “Fear reminds you that you’re alive. I think we all are addicted in some way to the buzz it can give us. How we respond to it shows how we are human. So here’s a bunch of songs searching for the thrill of being human via fears. Not that you’d necessarily notice on first listen.”
Along with the unveiling of their upcoming album and lead single, Franz Ferdinand has also announced a string of European and U.K. tour dates set for early next year. You can find a complete list of upcoming live shows and ticketing information by visiting the band’s official website.
The Human Fear Track List:
1. “Audacious”
2. “Everyday Dreamer”
3. “The Doctor”
4. “Hooked”
5. “Build It Up”
6. “Night Or Day”
7. “Tell Me I Should Stay”
8. “Cats”
9. “Black Eyelashes”
10. “Bar Lonely”
11. “The Birds”
