alt-J release brooding new single 'The Actor' ahead of Friday's album release

alt-J have released their final teaser, 'The Actor,' ahead of the release of their first full-length album since 2018, The Dream. 

The song joins previously revealed singles 'U&ME,' 'Get Better,' and 'Hard Drive Gold,' as tasters for the album, which will be available to listen this Friday, February 11.

"Hollywood, 1982. Another hopeful young movie star arrives in search of The Dream," said the band about the track. "What follows is a tale of desperation, drugs and death in LA’s most famous hotel. It’s ‘The Actor’."

The trio, known for Mercury-prize winning album An Awesome Wave, has made a name for themselves in the world of alternative indie-pop. With 'The Actor,' the group has channeled their hallmark intricate, experimental melodies and darkly fascinating storytelling, constructing a narrative that — much like Hollywood — pulls you in, before it spits you out.

The group formed at Leeds University in 2007, comprised of members Joe Newman, Gus Unger-Hamilton and Thom Sonny Greene. Gwilym Sainsbury was also part of the original lineup but left after the release of their debut album in 2012. Since, with several blow-out hits the likes of 'Breezeblocks' and 'Left Hand Free,' they have cemented themselves as kings of alt-pop.

"The Dream was recorded from August 2020 until June 2021 with long-time producer Charlie Andrew. What emerged was a record of intrigue and ambiguity that fizzes with a rejuvenated sense of experimentalism," the band posted to Spotify. "The Dream is the sound of a band experimenting more than they ever have, recharged and reinvigorated - the twelve tracks make for the fullest sounding alt-J record yet."

alt-J will be departing on a European tour starting in May, with two nights at the 3Olympia Theatre. Tickets to see the show can be found here.

Check out 'The Actor' below.