Sleaford Mods Unveil New EP "More UK GRIM" Ahead of Epic Autumn Tour
Who could have thought the UK could get any more grim?
Fresh from their captivating performance supporting Blur at Wembley Stadium earlier this summer, the formidable duo Sleaford Mods is gearing up for an autumn tour across the UK and Europe, accompanied by the release of their new six-track EP More UK GRIM set to drop on October 20th.
Recorded concurrently with their highly acclaimed 2023 album UK GRIM these newly released tracks not only uphold Andrew Fearn and Jason Williamson's current dancefloor dominance but also offer a blend of insight, wit, outrage, and compassion, as they both critique and celebrate the tumultuous times we find ourselves in.
The EP's lead single ‘Big Pharma’ carries forward the unapologetic lyrical style of the band's recent album, casting a skeptical eye at the “truther” movement. Wrapped around a groovy bass riff, this track showcases the duo's musical dexterity. Accompanying "Big Pharma" is a sharply satirical animated video directed by Sean Sears, whose distinctive 2D vision delves into the consequences of a health 'philosophy' that prioritizes drinking urine over scientifically researched medical treatments.
Jason Williamson explains “Big Pharma was written in the opening chapters of autumn 2022 when Covid kicked in again. It carries a lot of the normal Sleaford Mods absurdism but also looks at the ongoing fascination with trying to find truths in information wholly pushed by very questionable people”
He goes on to critique the appropriation of the term 'Big Pharma' by right-wing and industrial groups, masking their financial motives under the guise of critical thinking. "It just feels wrong. It feeds on hopelessness, widespread fear, and generations of unfettered misinformation linked to the limited critical perception we as the masses are burdened with."
Williamson further emphasises that the song doesn't excuse those who use such terms as part of a faceless political/industrial complex and takes a dig at keyboard warriors who fail to engage their own critical thinking before posting.
The More UK GRIM EP also unveils a treasure trove of previously unreleased tracks, including 'Under The Rule' 'Old Nottz' 'PO Crazeh' and 'My 18hr Girdle'. Williamson offers a glimpse into the essence of these compositions, describing 'Old Nottz' as a journey into the depths of local resentment, where he navigates the labyrinthine corridors of perceived material conformity. In contrast, 'My 18 Hr Girdle' embarks on an exploration of the ever-evolving landscape of male identity, while 'PO Crazeh' emerges as a whimsical elixir concocted from the zany world of absurdist political one-liners.
The EP will be available for streaming on all major platforms starting October 20th, with a limited edition, pink 12-inch vinyl available for pre-order now.
As Sleaford Mods gears up for their autumn tour, which commences in Utrecht on October 14th, they promise to deliver UK GRIM and More UK GRIM to audiences across Europe. Following this, they will return to the UK for a series of their biggest shows yet, culminating in a spectacular night at London's Alexander Palace on December 2nd. The event features their label-mates Special Interest, John Grant, Stewart Lee, and electronic icons Hot Chip as guest DJs.
For more information and ticket details, visit Sleaford Mods' official website.
Full list of tour dates available on Sleaford Mods' official website
