Pet Shop Boys Reflect on Emotional Themes and Long Career in New Album Nonetheless
As they gear up for the release of their 15th studio album, Nonetheless, Pet Shop Boys are looking back on a four-decade journey that has seen them become one of the world’s most enduring electronic music duos. Neil Tennant and Chris Lowe, known for hits like “West End Girls” and “It’s a Sin,” have crafted an album designed to capture the full spectrum of human emotions—from joy and nostalgia to melancholy and resilience. In a recent interview, the band spoke candidly about the album’s themes, which explore love, loss, and hope through both upbeat dance tracks and introspective ballads.
Working with acclaimed producer James Ford, known for his collaborations with Arctic Monkeys and Depeche Mode, Tennant and Lowe said Ford pushed them to embrace a more minimalistic and textured sound. This collaboration, according to Tennant, “brought a fresh perspective to our music, emphasizing each track’s narrative and raw emotion.” Tracks like “Loneliness” and “Feel” underscore this thematic depth, blending classic synth-driven elements with layered storytelling.
Tennant elaborated on their creative process, noting, “Nonetheless is an album that celebrates the human experience in all its forms. Each track contributes to an overarching narrative that reflects both personal and universal struggles.” With song titles such as “A New Bohemia” and “The Secret of Happiness,” the album promises an introspective yet celebratory look at life’s highs and lows.
Fans will get a chance to hear Nonetheless live at a series of anniversary performances at London’s Royal Opera House, where the duo will mark the 40th anniversary of their debut single “West End Girls.”
