GLASGOW, SCOTLAND—Scottish indie-rock stalwarts Arab Strap announced their latest album, Half-Told Tales, Tuesday. The record marks their third release since reuniting in 2021. Fans expressed a spectrum of emotions, mostly involving mild confusion. The album explores the complexities of middle-aged ennui. Arab Strap will embark on a tour to support Half-Told Tales later this year.
Moffat and Middleton Still At It
Aidan Moffat and Malcolm Middleton, the men behind Arab Strap, have remained prolific. This new collection of songs follows As Days Get Dark and I’m Totally Fine With It ? Don’t Give A Fuck Anymore ?. “It’s good to know they’re still making music,” said long-time fan Brenda Gummers, Senior Curator of Unfinished Knitting Projects. “I’m not sure I need more tales, half or otherwise. But I’ll listen.” The band released the single “You You You” from Half-Told Tales last week.
The Nature of Tales
Half-Told Tales delves into typical Arab Strap territory. Expect songs about pub toilets and questionable life choices. The title suggests a departure from full narratives. Instead, listeners get fragments. “We felt that fully telling a tale was too much effort,” explained Malcolm Middleton, Official Keeper of Overdue Library Books. “Leaving things unsaid feels more authentic to our experience.” The band hopes the new material resonates with their fanbase. Arab Strap has always been about leaving audiences wanting more, or perhaps just confused. More information about the album can be found on Stereogum. The band hopes fans will connect with the emotional rawness of Half-Told Tales.
At press time, sources confirmed that Arab Strap’s stories remain largely untold, just as advertised.
