Sports Team release new slacker-rock single ‘Medium Machine’
Sports Team has recently announced the release of a deluxe edition of their third album, “Boys These Days,” with seven additional songs, the first of which is the new single, “Medium Machine.” According to lyricist Rob Knaggs, this song embodies a blend of nostalgic slacker-rock aesthetics, describing it as a sound embodying a fusion of Pavement and Men At Work. The upcoming deluxe version of the album is set to be released on 5th November via Distiller Records/Bright Antenna.
In discussing the new songs featured on the deluxe edition, Knaggs explained that they were composed concurrently with the “Boys These Days” demos but ultimately fell outside the thematic boundaries of the original album. Referring to tracks like “Germany” and “Dog Country,” which did not make the initial cut, Knaggs shared insights into the band’s creative process and the evolution of their sound during the recording of the album. Despite initial intentions to include these tracks, they were ultimately left out due to time constraints and stylistic considerations.
The visualizer for “Medium Machine” offers a glimpse into the slacker-rock vibe that characterizes the track, serving as a prelude to the forthcoming “Boys These Days (Deluxe)” release. The album will feature a total of seventeen tracks, including new additions like “Pet Sounds” and demos of previously unreleased songs such as “Living In Skin” and “Shoegazr.” This blend of new material and demo recordings provides a comprehensive overview of Sports Team’s creative output during the album’s recording sessions.
“Boys These Days” marked a shift in Sports Team’s sound, incorporating ’60s pop influences alongside their signature sardonic lyrical style. With tracks like “Bang Bang Bang” and “Head To Space,” the album showcases the band’s ability to navigate between introspective themes and more lighthearted musical expressions. This balance between wit and introspection is a hallmark of Sports Team’s approach to songwriting, and the deluxe edition promises to expand upon these themes while offering a deeper insight into the band’s creative process.
Fans of Sports Team can catch them live on their headline UK tour, with dates scheduled across various cities in November. The tour will feature performances in Manchester, Glasgow, Birmingham, Leeds, Brighton, Norwich, Portsmouth, and London, offering fans the opportunity to experience the band’s energetic live show firsthand. Tickets for the tour are available now, providing an opportunity for fans to engage with Sports Team’s music in a live setting.
Overall, the release of “Medium Machine” and the forthcoming deluxe edition of “Boys These Days” hint at an exciting new chapter in Sports Team’s musical journey, offering fans a deeper understanding of the band’s creative evolution and musical versatility. As they continue to push boundaries and explore new sonic territories, Sports Team remains a dynamic and engaging presence in the contemporary music scene.