Vessels: new album 'The Great Distraction' out

While celebrated third album Dilate, and the breathtaking live shows that accompanied it, were characterised by a definitive electronic shift, The Great Distraction is about much more than a desire to go four-to-the-floor. It forcefully delivers on that premise in the widescreen power of opener ‘Mobilise’, in the dark energy of the pulsing ‘Position’, and in the deep build-up of ‘Gløwer’, but some notable collaborations represent another impressive step forward in Vessels’ determined progression.

“We're really aiming to create a living, breathing human version of electronic dance music. There isn't anything more honest and organic than the human voice. The vocals should be an extension of the music we make, and also add something new or interesting,”says Martin Teff.

The results stand tall amongst Vessels’ typically towering slow-burners as Wayne Coyne’s vocal soars towards the clouds on ‘Deflect The Light’, Vincent Neff’s presence adds to the powerful dramatics of ‘Trust Me’, and John Grant imbues ‘Erase The Tapes’ with characteristically austere beauty. “He has such a distinctive voice,” muses Martin, “he really inspired us to create something totally new.”

In that respect, The Great Distraction represents a band analysing its own meaning and balancing the stark realities of life, death and ageing with the explosive bursts of energy that have been a signature, albeit in different styles, across every album.

Fun fact: the FIFA 18 soundtrack has been released and Vessels makes the list alongside The XX, Alt-J, Lorde, Run The Jewels. "A soundtrack likely to introduce gamers to the hottest and newest acts in music."