Seatbelts - A World Inbetween (2022)

A World Inbetween comprises of “some old, some new, some slanted, some enchanted” says James, “the last few EPs/songs have had repetitive themes, i.e disconnection, technology, high capitalism and escapism.” The songs are a mix between ‘biographical’ and ‘observational’ - a lot of the lyrics delve into the ever changing tricky modern world in which we inhabit.

Single "Citylines" opens the album with a splash of shimmering guitars and euphoric keyboard drones, with driving energy and vocals reminiscent of early Arcade Fire. On new single “Another Passing Day”, Ryan says “we decided to up the tempo a little, wanting something immediate to align with previous upbeat singles “Hey, Hey Tiger!” and “Spanish Songs”. The music came out completely whole, in one take. The lyrics formed when I sang improvised, stream-of-consciousness babble into the microphone. After much sifting and rewriting, lyrics formed. Overall, it’s about searching and finding meaning in the new, hyper- advanced world.”

Mantras like “Keep Your Mind On The Feeling” are a reminder of the happy-funny-silly times. Reworked track “Song For Vonnegut” is an ode to master of words and humanist American writer Kurt Vonnegut. Lush, mellotron driven "Content Crush" and the upbeat, avant-pop "Spanish Songs" showcase Seatbelts ability to perfectly balance classic pop with eccentric pop songs. “Superstardom” written by Abi Woods - celebrates human uniqueness, “Be yourself, I know you’re not ordinary” is an affirmation that embracing different personas, rejecting convention, and embarking on inward and outward transitions are key elements in creating a sense of the “superstar”.

Think of Holly and Sugarplum Fairy walking the wild side in Lou Reed’s Transformer, “misfits” these are the stars in our stories and songs, and it is their difference and strangeness we should be celebrating.

At a time when society seems to be running away with itself, A World Inbetween offers up sanctuary - a reminder to celebrate experimentation, individualism and imperfection. Recorded in Helmsdale, Scotland with Edwyn Collins (Orange Juice) and Parr St Studios, Liverpool with Chris Taylor (Bill Ryder Jones, Our Girl, The Coral).