Modestep resurrects the underground with album previewing single, “Bodybag”
After a ten-year hiatus from full-length releases, UK electronic artist Modestep has reemerged with “Bodybag,” a killer new single that heralds the forthcoming album Give Up The Ghost, set for release on September 5, 2025. This track not only marks a triumphant return but also showcases a bold evolution in Modestep's sound, blending elements of dubstep, synthwave, and drum & bass into a cohesive and electrifying experience.
“Bodybag” opens with a gritty groove that pays homage to early 2000’s dubstep. Distorted leads and analog textures create a dark, immersive atmosphere, while reverb-soaked snares and punchy drums drive the track forward. The song then takes an unexpected turn, erupting into a high-octane drum & bass finale that defies genre conventions and leaves listeners breathless. However, it’s really the overall build of the track that leads you to an eventual euphoria towards its climactic finish!
Modestep, now the solo project of Josh Friend, describes the track as a fusion of the deep, wobbly sounds that defined the project's early days with a darker, more melodic approach. Though it’s certainly dark, he does an excellent job of blending fresh, vibrant, and upbeat sounds into an otherwise explosive production.
Thematically, “Bodybag” sets the stage for Give Up The Ghost, a concept album exploring the existential crisis of human creativity in an age dominated by artificial intelligence. The record envisions a world where AGI has replaced human artists, prompting questions about the future of emotional expression and authenticity in art.
Modestep will bring this reimagined sound to audiences worldwide with a series of performances across Europe and the United States, including appearances at Download Festival, Rampage Open Air, and Blacklist Festival. These shows promise to deliver the high-energy, genre-defying experience that fans have come to expect from Modestep.
“Bodybag” is more than just a comeback single; it's a statement of intent. With this track, Modestep reasserts his position at the forefront of the electronic music scene, pushing boundaries and challenging listeners to embrace a darker, more complex soundscape.
Go ahead and check out the tour dates below, listen up, follow along, and stay tuned for much more information surrounding the new record by clicking those links below.
Upcoming Tour Dates:
May 30 – Rampage, Tilburg, Netherlands (DJ set)
June 14 – Download Festival, Donington, UK (DJ set, District X stage headliner)
July 5 – Rampage Open Air, Lommel, Belgium (DJ set, Dubstep stage headliner)
August 8 – Rockowizna Festival, Gdansk, Poland (Band, mainstage)
August 21 – Fajer Festival, Chorzow, Poland (DJ set, mainstage)
October 11 – Blacklist Festival, Oberhausen, Germany (DJ set, mainstage)
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