They might be British indie-rock long-timers but Bombay Bicycle Club have taken a funk-filled turn for the final single before their forthcoming album, My Big Day.
We already knew the new record would include some big names – including Damon Albarn, Nilüfer Yanya and Holly Humberstone – but new single ‘Tekken 2’ has a true legend: the queen of funk Chaka Khan.
The result is a joyous single, with an upbeat message and the soaring vocals of a genuine great – have a listen below, and a watch of its video which drops at 6pm (BST).
‘Tekken 2’ was written by frontman Jack Steadman at the band’s London studio, with the singer envisioning Chaka Khan as the ultimate guest vocalist to help elevate the track.
Explaining the next steps, Chaka Khan herself has said: “After Jack invited me and then sent the song, I loved it, the ethereal part drew me in. The band has such innovative and passionate energy, truly great musicians. Absolute vibes.”
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Jack then flew over to L.A. to capture the iconic singer’s vocals, with the Bombay Bicycle Club man explaining: “It has been a pretty crazy journey, from sitting on my sofa messing around with a keyboard and drum machine to sitting across from Chaka Khan in a fancy L.A. studio giving her singing directions.
“Chaka was an absolute superstar and the whole experience was so positive. I think the song reflects that – it’s about coming together, putting any bad thoughts aside and just enjoying the moment.”
And if the new tune alone wasn’t enough to brighten spirits, Bombay Bicycle Club have also announced a new headline tour across the UK and Ireland for January and February next year, which includes a massive showing at London’s Alexandra Palace next July.
Pre-sale tickets for the tour go on sale from Wednesday, 25 October, before going on general sale from 9am on Friday, 27 October. Visit the band’s site for more information and to purchase tickets.
And check out the full UK and Ireland 2024 tour dates below.
29th January – The Telegraph Building, Belfast
30th January – 3 Olympia Theatre, Dublin
2nd February – O2 Academy, Birmingham
3rd February – Centre, Brighton
5th February – Beacon, Bristol
6th February – Rock City, Nottingham
8th February – O2 Academy, Sheffield
9th February – The Nick Rayns LCR, UEA, Norwich
10th February – Corn Exchange, Cambridge
12th February – Barrowland, Glasgow
15th February – O2 City Hall, Newcastle
16th February – O2 Apollo, Manchester
18th February – Great Hall, Cardiff
12th July – Alexandra Palace Park, London
