Update: Ladytron.

photo: philebrity.com

If you're anything like us over here at Second Drawer Up HQ, you're probably wondering to yourself, Boy, Ladytron's been kind of quiet ever since their tour for Velocifero - I wonder what they're up to?

Well, don't wonder anymore. Happily, Ladytron has spent June of this year in the studio recording their new album, and they're currently in the studio mixing the final result. What's the album called? I have no idea at this time. When's it coming out? Nup, no idea. Is there going to be a first single? You're in luck, mate - I do have an answer for that particular query. The single is going to be entitled "Ace Of Hz," and it has a release date of 30 November, 2010. So that's certainly good news! Can't wait that long and have a passion for playing soccer on your favorite video game platform? Then you're especially in luck, for EA Sports' just-out FIFA '11 features the new single in its soundtrack!

I've been listening to "Ace Of Hz" for the last few hours, and it's really growing on me! I truly think it follows perfectly in the trajectory of sound that Ladytron have cultivated for the last decade. First, there was 2001's 604, which specialized in lo-fi chirpiness; a sense of brooding introspection over fairly light-hearted rhythms. Light & Magic from 2002 followed shortly afterward, and the songs, while more polished and epic in substance, added a bit more danceability to the recipe. In 2005, when they released The Witching Hour, Mira's and Helen's (le sigh) voices developed into an ethereal force to be reckoned with, whilst the music began to swing in a more organic, earthy direction. 2008's Velocifero, their most recent full-length, took the "organic" baton and ran with it, becoming a record that pretty much flat-out rocked.

So when I listen to "Ace Of Hz," I think I can say without fear of self-contradiction that the new album is going to be terrific. The synths sound beautiful - delicate yet forceful - and Helen's voice is as pining as ever, with Mira's voice floating like chanting storm clouds in the background. There's a brilliant beat to the whole proceeding, and I think it's going to be a highlight of their live shows. I think it's "Ace."

But don't take my word for it! Here it is for your own judgement.

ladytron

"ace of hz"

tba

UPDATE: Here's an update to the update! "Ace of Hz" will be released officially on the 30th of November. So now you know. And knowing's half the battle.