British indie-rock staples The Kooks are back with their new album Never/Know, out now via Virgin Music Group. The 11-track release blends the band’s signature anthemic charm with a refreshing wave of sonic experimentation, and critics are taking notice.
Anchored by the tender single “Sunny Baby,” a tribute to frontman Luke Pritchard’s family life, the album has been praised for its lush harmonies and introspective tone. The Times (UK) called the track “perfect for the start of Spring,” while the dreamy accompanying video captures its warmth and nostalgia.
From the stripped-back title track “Never Know” to standouts like “Compass Will Fracture” and “All Over The World,” Never/Know strikes a balance between evolution and authenticity. NME highlighted the band’s shift into a more minimalistic space, noting the whistled intro and organ melodies as signs of a new era.
Self-produced by Pritchard, the album began as a solo project before evolving into a collaborative effort with longtime bandmate Hugh Harris. “It’s not about going back to the first album’s sound,” Pritchard explains, “but to the roots of our influences and asking, ‘What is the identity of this band?’”
Never/Know comes ahead of The Kooks’ North American “All Over The World Tour,” kicking off later this month with support from lovelytheband. Their recent Australian dates hinted at what’s to come: a blend of nostalgic singalongs and vibrant new material. “It’s going to be magic,” says Pritchard.
Two decades after their debut, The Kooks are proving they’ve still got the spark, and a whole new generation of fans to show for it.
Tracklist for Never/Know
- Never Know
- Sunny Baby
- All Over The World
- If They Could Only Know
- China Town
- Compass Will Fracture
- Tough At The Top
- Arrow Through Me
- Echo Chamber
- Let You Go
- Talk About It
Keep up with The Kooks: Instagram // Youtube // Website // X
