Garbage is set to release their eighth studio album, Let All That We Imagine Be The Light, on May 30 via BMG. Recorded across iconic studios such as Red Razor Sounds in Los Angeles, Butch Vig’s Grunge Is Dead, and Shirley Manson’s own bedroom, the album showcases the band’s signature blend of alternative rock with a fresh, melody-driven approach. Produced alongside longtime engineer Billy Bush, the album features contributions from all original members: Manson, Vig, Duke Erikson, and Steve Marker.
The album marks a return to form, with a noticeable shift from industrial textures to a more polished grunge-pop sound. Tracks like “There’s No Future In Optimism” open with an infectious refrain, while “Chinese Fire Horse” delivers angular guitar work and raw energy. “Hold” offers driving pop elements with a captivating chorus, and “Have We Met (The Void)” introduces dub-inspired synths that build into a dramatic crescendo in “Love to Give,” underscored by dynamic timpani arrangements. Despite the intricate production, the album retains a lo-fi charm that resonates deeply with audiophiles seeking both depth and authenticity.
Shirley Manson describes the album as an exploration of hope and positivity amidst darkness, emphasizing the importance of seeking light and beauty in challenging times. This thematic direction is reflected in the album’s technical execution, where analogue synths and meticulous sound design interplay with robust guitar riffs and layered vocals. The band’s ability to balance complex arrangements with accessible melodies ensures that each track stands out while contributing to the album’s cohesive narrative.
Let All That We Imagine Be The Light is available in multiple formats to cater to diverse listening preferences. Fans can choose from ‘pearl sunrise’ colored vinyl, orange vinyl, or CD, with options for signed prints and exclusive bundles available through the official Garbage shop. Notable bundle options include the Pearl Sunrise Vinyl + CD + Signed Print and the Orange Vinyl + CD + Signed Print, each priced at £38. Additionally, the CD can be purchased individually with a signed insert from Amazon in the UK.
With a compelling tracklist that includes titles such as “Sisyphus,” “Radical,” “Get Out My Face AKA Bad Kitty,” and “The Day That I Met God,” Garbage delivers a robust collection that is poised to make a significant impact. The album’s blend of nostalgic elements and contemporary production techniques positions it as the band’s best work since their original era, promising to engage both longtime fans and new listeners alike.