Desert rock veterans Fu Manchu are set to unleash their 14th studio album, a first-of-its-kind double LP titled “The Return of Tomorrow,” arriving on June 14th, 2024 via the band’s label At The Dojo Records.
This release follows 2018’s critically acclaimed “Clone Of The Universe” and marks a significant departure for the SoCal rockers. “The Return of Tomorrow” promises a sonic odyssey, traversing crushing riffs, ethereal jams, and surprisingly mellow anthems – all spread across two distinct records.
For die-hard vinyl enthusiasts, a limited edition (4,000 units only) double-vinyl pressing awaits. This special version features 45RPM playback for optimal sound quality, housed in a glossy gatefold jacket with one disc colored “space” and the other “sky.” Pre-orders are available now, bundled with exclusive merch.
In a statement, founding guitarist and vocalist Scott Hill explains the concept behind the double album, catering to both his own listening preferences and those of fans who crave variety: ““The Return of Tomorrow” is kind of an experiment for us,” says Hill. “We wanted to offer a full spectrum of Fu Manchu‘s sound, from heavy to mellow. One record features seven fuzzed-out jams, perfect for cranking up the volume. The other record showcases a softer side we don’t explore as often, with six mellower tracks.”
Hill acknowledges the unique listening experience: “Maybe I’m the only person who likes to listen to music this way,” he laughs, “but fans can always create their own playlist if they prefer to mix and match the two records.”
Alongside the album announcement, Fu Manchu unleashes the first single, ‘Hands of the Zodiac’. This track embodies the band’s signature heavy sound, featuring scorching guitar solos and a fuzzed-out atmosphere. Is a perfect introduction to the album’s heavier half.
The song draws inspiration from a close friend of Hill‘s, an astrologer with a penchant for flamboyant predictions. “‘Hands of the Zodiac’ is about this buddy who’d bombard us with astrological forecasts whenever we hung out,” explains Hill. “None of his predictions ever came true, but his way of talking was so colorful, it ended up inspiring the song’s lyrics.”
Fu Manchu‘s story began in 1985, a far cry from their current desert rock acclaim. Originally formed under the name Virulence, the band started as a hardcore punk outfit heavily influenced by Black Flag.
By 1990, Fu Manchu had shed their punk roots and embraced a new sound. Their debut single, ‘Kept Between Trees’, marked a turning point, and the band soon found themselves at the forefront of a burgeoning genre – stoner rock. Alongside Kyuss, Monster Magnet, and Sleep, Fu Manchu helped define this signature style of heavy music, characterized by fuzzed-out guitars and laid-back grooves.
Over the years, the band has amassed a dedicated following, captivated by their guitar-driven sound and carefree lyrics that celebrate classic muscle cars, skateboarding, and sci-fi. With 13 previous albums under their belt and countless sold-out shows worldwide, Fu Manchu remains a dominant force in the rock scene.
The past six years haven’t been quiet for Fu Manchu. Since their last studio album, the band has kept busy with a live album, reissues of past works, new EPs, and even a soundtrack contribution to the documentary “A Look Back – Dogtown & Z-Boys.” They’ve also maintained a rigorous touring schedule, solidifying their reputation as a live powerhouse.
With “The Return of Tomorrow,” Fu Manchu looks to expand their sonic horizons while staying true to their roots. This double album promises a diverse listening experience, showcasing the band’s versatility and their enduring love for all things rock.
“The Return Of Tomorrow” track listing:
- Dehumanize
- Loch Ness Wrecking Machine
- Hands Of The Zodiac
- Haze The Hides
- Roads Of The Lowly
- (Time Is) Pulling You Under
- Destroyin’ Light
- Lifetime Waiting
- Solar Baptized
- What I Need
- The Return Of Tomorrow
- Liquify
- High Tide
