Underworld are facing a bright future

Barbara Barbara, We Face a Shining Future is Underworld’s seventh album and their first new music since the London Olympics opening ceremony sequence.

Rick and Karl worked on about 30 unique ideas for the album. Tracks that were deemed worthy of further exploration, were worked on by Rick.

Karl said: “Our attitude towards recording the new songs was go in with nothing and leave with something. We went into the studio with an open mind and there was a sense of exploration, of moving forward with no pressure.”

The album was finished within a year – something that has not happened before.

“Usually our albums take an average of three years to come together from start to finish,” Karl continued

“We went into the studio two days a week to lay down some tracks as we were on tour at the same time, but yeah, it took us about 12 months to complete it.”

The duo are set to play two sold-out London Roundhouse gigs at the end of the month, before heading north of the border to headline the first Festival Of House at Panmure Estate, Pitlivie Farm in Angus on June 11.

“Shows like the Scottish one are a great way to get our music out to new fans and see what we’re about and we love playing festivals so we’re excited about this gig,” Karl said.

“Most people know us from one particular song (Underworld’s classic Born Slippy featured on the soundtrack of Trainspotting) so it’s good to get our new stuff out there. We’re really looking forward to it.”

Underworld’s new album, Barbara Barbara, We Face a Shining Future, is out now.

To book tickets for Festival of House, visit www.festivalofhouse.co.uk.