Do Nothing is doing something: Newly released Stars takes new sonic direction

Written by Mona Montella

English act Do Nothing has been on many fans’ radars since last year when they played at the Edinburgh Psych Fest. It was an apt event for the band to showcase their music, considering the psychedelic direction their sound has taken. They are a fast-growing, artistically unique post-punk promise in the UK landscape, with a dedicated following of fans. 

Stars is the first single out on June 10 from their freshly announced album, Friend World, set to be released in November. The track does not disappoint as it leans into the synth-like 80s vibe that may feel ubiquitous nowadays, but the band crafts it to fit their personal sound.

Like many songs, it speaks of unrequited love but adds an eerie twist to its lyrics that fits perfectly with the cool, low-key background bass reminiscent of pop and soul band Simply Red. Do Nothing sings, "I'll buy you a ring," which seems like a lovely promise, until it’s followed by, "with a tiny camera inside, I'll watch you get bored in your bedroom." This switches the narrative, making it darker—a theme reprised multiple times throughout the song: “I’m gonna wrap my arms around you so tight that I break all your ribs.”

The lyrics fit the artistic direction of this new piece perfectly, considering this tune has as much of an uncanny musical vibe to it as it does textually. It almost feels like it belongs in outer space, with a loopy, hypnotic aura that becomes nearly obsessive. Chris Bailey’s low-humming voice and high-pitched climaxes manage to add another layer to this already rich, sidereal tapestry.

It’s a good taste of their upcoming LP, which succeeds in sounding stream-friendly, experimental, and distinctive in a way that a lot of music cannot achieve nowadays.