While it’s true that you can’t judge a book by its cover (or an album by its sleeve), that which houses The Legendary Pink Dots’ latest long player is pretty indicative of the sound contained within. It’s surreal, startling and absorbing, all qualities which So Lonely In Heaven has in abundance. As the band rapidly approach their 45th anniversary, they’ve produced an album which stands as a career best (and that’s saying something of a band with a lengthy discography) and signposts a bright future.

Like steeping through a door into another world, opening (and title) track, ‘So Lonely In Heaven’ is a break in the matrix which pulls us into another dimension, but once inside the band’s world you’ll be glad you arrived as they surround us with sparkling sonics. However, when dealing with The Legendary Pink Dots you should always expect the unexpected and the lyrics take on a slightly sinister turn, as does the music which manipulates sonics in a way that resonates with the listener on a deep, primordial level. It often makes for an unsettling experience, yet it is also a highly engaging listen, and the shifts in sound that characterise the following ‘The Sound Of The Bell’ verge on the surreal, yet it is precisely this constant flux that holds our rapt attention.

For those unfamiliar with The Legendary Pink Dots (where have you been all these years?), think a mixture of In Search Of Space era Hawkwind and Piper At The Gates Of Dawn era Pink Floyd, only with the ability to utilise modern technology. Despite over four decades in the music industry, this Anglo-Dutch band haven’t become staid, there’s still an indefatigable desire to face the future, and that comes across in a multi-dimensional sound that utilises all tools at their disposal. But make no mistake, The Legendary Pink Dots are a rock band and traditional instruments are their bread and butter, yet there are technological flourishes (such as on ‘Wired High : Too Far To Fall’) which make their sound far more colourful than their peers.

The Legendary Pink Dots have always been a band more concerned with albums as opposed to singles and EP’s (though not exclusively), and this focus on the longer form has undoubtedly curtailed their commercial performance (not as if they really cared), yet it has turned them into masters of their art and So Lonely In Heaven stands as one of their best. Legendary, indeed.

• So Lonely In Heaven is released via Metropolis Records on 25th January 2025.
• Official Website | Bandcamp | Facebook | X

Track List:

1. So Lonely In Heaven
2. The Sound Of The Bell
3. Dr. Bliss ‘25
4. Sleight Of Hand
5. Choose Premium : First Prize
6. Darkest Knight
7. Cold Comfort
8. Wired High : Too Far To Fall
9. How Many Figures in The Fog
10. Blood Money : Transnational
11. Pass The Accident
12. Everything Under The Moon