Australia’s post-punk powerhouse dust is back with a gripping new track, "New High," released just in time for their much-anticipated performance at London’s iconic Alexandra Palace, supporting Interpol.
Although this is more than just a song; it’s an exploration of isolation and the tension between solitude and longing, wrapped in an electrifying, atmospheric soundscape.
"New High" breaks from dust’s usual style, evolving from a raw, fast-paced bass line demo by bassist Justin Teale. Originally inspired by the introspective tones of Mount Kimbie’s "Empty and Silent," Teale looked outward this time, drawing from abstract emotion to create a track that captures the complex comfort and disquiet of being alone. As he describes it, the song is a snapshot of those late-night hours spent under dim lights, listening to dreamlike music, watching films like Her, and feeling that bittersweet ache of solitude. The warmth and pain of isolation clash and converge here, finding resolution in a bittersweet, swinging chorus that’s as dreamy as it is haunting.
The official video, directed by Nikola Jokanovic, dives deeper into the track’s themes. Filmed in their Newcastle hometown on Awabakal Land, the visuals follow the band as they ride through familiar city landmarks under night’s veil, weaving nostalgia and introspection with striking cinematography. It’s a moody, cinematic experience that mirrors the song’s themes, showcasing dust’s knack for blending music and emotion in a way that resonates long after it’s over.
dust's connection with Interpol goes beyond just sharing the stage - it's mutual respect between artists who’ve influenced each other. On tour across the UK and Europe to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Interpol’s ‘Antics’, dust’s haunting energy is a perfect fit.
Rewriting the rules of post-punk with their raw emotion and hypnotic energy, this Newcastle five-piece is only just getting started.
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