If you haven’t flipped out over Blondie’s new single yet, you’re about to. “Long Time,” released just this morning, is our first taste of the band’s forthcoming 11th album, Pollinator, and has all the bells and whistles you could wish for in a Blondie track: dreamy synth, dance-tempo drums, and bewitchingly cool vocals from the goddess herself.
Photo Credit: Alexander Thompson
Debbie Harry sounds as strong as she did in ‘78, if not even more elegant, and Chris Stein’s catchy guitar work is a dead ringer for the era. In fact, “Long Time” starts with a deliberate throwback to that year, echoing their chart-topping “Heart of Glass” in its fresh, swirling melodies. Teaming up with Dev Hynes, AKA Blood Orange, on the songwriting, Blondie have delivered a modern take on their signature new wave sound, while showing off the awesome, collaborative nature of the LP to come – which will feature unique contributions from Joan Jett, Charli XCX, Dave Sitek (TV On The Radio), Nick Valensi (The Strokes), and Johnny Marr (The Smiths), among others.
And if the whole thing wasn’t sexy enough, turns out Pollinator’s eye-catching album artwork was concocted by none other than Shepard Fairey, the legendary street artist behind all the Obey Giant propaganda. For that reason alone, you’re going to want to snag this one on vinyl, so make sure to pre-order it here (hello, limited edition 180G in red). Also, hardcore fans should plan on waking up early for the 7” of “Long Time” they’ll be releasing for Record Store Day this year – just 750 copies!
Blondie will be kicking off their Rage and Rapture Tour with Garbage (a really nice match) on July 5th. We can’t wait to see them in NYC at the Beacon Theatre on August 1st. Tickets are available here.
Author: Olivia Isenhart
