Listen: Sal Valentine and The Babyshakes - Elizabeth, I've Been a Fool (UTR Premiere)

We're delighted today to present the premiere of 'Elizabeth, I've Been A Fool', the larger-than-life new tune from Auckland outfit Sal Valentine & The Babyshakes. Having being penned during a dark time for the frontman, the track sees Sal lay his cards on the table lyrically, while The Babyshakes go all out to build up a huge sound that is bigger than anything the 10-piece have ever released before. Soak it up, while you read our interview with Sal below....

You’ve mentioned that 'Elizabeth, I've Been a Fool’ was written in a dark place. Could you elaborate on that a little bit?

We've all been there. Well, most of us have. Whatever the specifics are, it's a relatable scenario - calling on a friend in a time of need. In this case, I went through a fairly harrowing few months involving my health - mental and physical - all as a result of stupid decisions I'd made. I reached out to Liz (Babyshakes member / lead singer of The Beths) because she's a good friend and a good listener. Thanks for that Liz x

The song has this hot big band sound, but then this amazing gritty synthline ripples through it. Where did that come from?

Yeah the big band thing has followed this band around for years now coz we got horns and have the jazz. The funny thing is, the outro of this song is the first time we've actually had enough horns on record to justify the use of the term 'big band'. Four trumpets, three trombones, five saxes. Or close to that. Layers 4 real. The synth part felt like a natural addition to the sonic palette of the tune. Dig.

Were there any sonic touchstones you used as reference points for the sound you were trying to achieve?

Lol Queens of the Stone Age came up a lot. Our references for tracking and mixing were like '1000 Deaths' - D'Angelo, 'I Got Love' - Nate Dogg, 'Radio Crimes' - Pluto and a bunch of Parliament's production as well. On the writing side of things, I honestly got no idea where this tune came from. Late 2013 was a weird time, and that main harmonic minor motif seems to adequately sum that shit up.

It sounds pretty different from previous Sal V + Babyshakes material, is this a turning point for a new musical direction for the band?

It's funny coz things have been quietly bubbling away in the background for three years now, slowly and naturally evolving, but without any releases since 'Live at No. 10 South Street' the only proof of this evolution we have is our live sets. I wouldn't say turning point, I'd say overdue evidence.

What’s coming up next for you guys following the single release show?

A video, finishing our upcoming album, canapés at the northern club, another single, Jonathan Pearce is launching his children's book, couple pinã coladas by the pool, church on Sunday and then hit the range to pop off a few rounds coz at the end of the day life's all about balance right.

Sal Valentine & The Babyshakes are throwing a single release party this Sunday 23rd October at Kings Arms Tavern in Auckland, where they will be joined by SoccerPractise, Ijebu Pleasure Club and Charlie Freak. Head over here for more information and to buy tickets.