After bursting back onto the scene with ‘Delay The New Day’, Cardiff multi-instrumentalists Red Telephone are back with another scorcher, ‘What To Believe’. The track is our second insight into their upcoming sophomore album Delay The New Day which is hailed for release early 2025. 

Delving into the complexities of conflicting narratives, ‘What To Believe’, continues the blend of melodic psych and darkwave that defined Red Telephone’s critically acclaimed debut, Hollowing Out. Originally conceived as a piano ballad by lead singer Declan, the song underwent a dramatic transformation during the band’s Cornwall recording sessions. What began as a slow, melancholic piece echoing the ethereal simplicity of Lana Del Rey, was radically reimagined by Dom (bass) and Luke (drums), who injected the track with an urgent, driving rhythm. Opening with a deep, funk infused bassline groove that evolves into a celestial expanse of synths, the song captures an essence of 80s melodrama, drawing comparison to the danceable yet intellectual energy of Pet Shop Boys.

“Lyrically it’s pretty abstract” says Declan of the track. “The lyrics came out fast and I mainly just liked the imagery… But it’s definitely got something to do with the problems that come with drowning in an ocean of information, content and conflicting narratives. Not wanting to get seduced or manipulated by things,  all while searching for something to have a bit of faith in. I guess in this case, it relates to having faith in the ambitions and paths your past self sent you down. Are you still in charge or are they running you?”

‘What To Believe’ delves deeper into the existential turmoil faced by today’s artists, a central theme explored throughout Red Telephone’s upcoming album, Delay The New Day. From balancing demanding day jobs with creative aspirations to navigating a sea of contradictory advice, the band captures the universal anxieties of those chasing their dreams. Recorded semi-live in a short timeframe, this latest offering aims for a more cohesive sound, placing a strong emphasis on melody and lyricism written primarily in solitude by members Declan and Kieran on guitar and piano. By blending their signature multi-instrumental flair with a bold new cinematic edge, Red Telephone have expanded their sonic palette while staying true to their core identity.

Hailing from Cardiff, Red Telephone are a quintet featuring two sets of brothers alongside their first full-time drummer. They began their journey by releasing their first two singles as a double A-side vinyl on the Welsh cult label Popty-Ping, earning praise from Huw Stephens and Steve Lamacq. Their critically acclaimed debut album, Hollowing Out, garnered media attention from Clash, BBC 6 Music, and Under The Radar, amongst many. Now, in 2024, with their second album completed and set to release early 2025, Red Telephone continue to make waves in the UK alternative scene with their potent blend of psychedelic rock and darkwave, drawing comparisons to indie trailblazers MGMT, St. Vincent, or fellow Welsh band Super Furry Animals.

‘What To Believe’ is available across all streaming platforms now, whilst their sophomore album Delay The New Day is hailed for release early 2025.

Emily Marsden – Editor
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