English rocker Yungblud has caught fans off guard with a massive announcement. The singer officially revealed that Idols II—the highly anticipated second half of his Grammy-nominated album Idols—will hit streaming platforms this Friday, February 20.
Breaking the news via a deeply personal voice memo uploaded directly to his official website, Yungblud explained the sudden drop and the heavy emotional themes driving the new record (via Loudwire):
“This has really been so important for me to put out like this because it’s a thank you for the last year we had and it’s a real testament to the journey that we’ve been on together and that I’ve been on to make this. I really felt like I had to face myself and I really feel like this album has taken us on an adventure together like never before.”
He continued the recording by contrasting the core themes of the first record with this upcoming chapter:
“I know it’s a little bit out of the blue and it’s a little bit out of my style, but I feel that’s why this is just perfect to just drop it. The first part of the album is about the reclamation of one’s self. This part of the album is about the comprehension of mortality and the celebration of life and the celebration of existence and feeling the air on your face and feeling the water that goes down your neck when you take a drink. Life is such a gift and I think when you hit rock bottom, you realize that.”
Signing off, he offered a message of hope and solidarity to his fanbase:
“I love you all so much. Anyone out there who is going through hard times right now, I hope this second part of the album helps to ground you, helps to focus you, helps you to feel alive as much as it has done for me.”
Fans have already received a taste of what is to come with a reimagined version of “Zombie“. Originally a massive hit on the first Idols record, this new rendition features Yungblud teaming up with the band that inspired him, alt-rock legends The Smashing Pumpkins.
While the digital release arrives this week, collectors will have to wait just a bit longer for physical copies. Vinyl editions for both Idols II and the complete combined Idols package are available for pre-order now, with shipping expected to begin on May 15.
Idols II Tracklist:
Side A
- “I Need You (To Make the World Seem Fine)”
- “The Postman”
- “Zombie” (featuring The Smashing Pumpkins)
Side B
- “War Pt. II”
- “Blueberry Hill“
- “Suburban Requiem”
