The Afghan Whigs are back with a new album, Soft Control, marking a significant return to the music scene after a four-year hiatus. This highly anticipated release is the band's tenth studio album, following their 2019 album, How Do You Burn?. The album's title, Soft Control, draws inspiration from a David Bowie quote, reflecting on the gradual process of aging and self-discovery. Frontman Greg Dulli explains how this sentiment has given him a newfound confidence in his artistic pursuits.
The album's creation was a collaborative effort, recorded across multiple sessions in four different locations: Fireside Sound in Joshua Tree, Marigny Studios in New Orleans, Gold Diggers Sound in East Hollywood, and Sycamore in Cincinnati. This diverse range of recording environments likely contributed to the album's unique sound and feel.
Soft Control features 10 tracks, including the lead single, 'Jungle Roux', and 'House of I', a song released in March. The band's decision to narrow down the tracklist from 22 songs showcases their meticulous approach to album curation, ensuring a cohesive and impactful listening experience.
The Afghan Whigs' tour schedule for Soft Control is an extensive one, spanning Europe and North America. The band will be joined by British singer-songwriter Ed Harcourt on the first leg of the tour, while the Minneapolis-based psych-rock band Night Moves will tag along for the North American leg. The tour dates are spread out from September to November, providing fans with ample opportunities to catch the band live.
The Afghan Whigs' return to the music scene is a significant event, especially for fans of their earlier work. The band's influence in the grunge scene, as evidenced by their inclusion in the '25 Best Grunge Albums of the '90s' list, makes their new album a highly anticipated release. Soft Control promises to showcase the band's evolution while staying true to their signature sound.
In conclusion, the Afghan Whigs' new album, Soft Control, is a testament to their enduring creativity and artistic growth. The album's title, inspired by David Bowie's wisdom, sets the tone for a journey of self-discovery and artistic expression. With an extensive tour schedule, fans can look forward to experiencing the band's new music live and in person, marking a new chapter in the Afghan Whigs' illustrious career.
