Banana Skin Shoes

Released in 2020 after a seven-year hiatus from studio albums, Banana Skin Shoes represents a significant sonic expansion for Badly Drawn Boy. While Damon Gough's earlier work was defined by lo-fi intimacy and 'bedroom' aesthetics, this record embraces a high-fidelity, maximalist approach. Recorded primarily at Stockport's Eve Studios, the album features production collaborations with Gethin Pearson and Youth, resulting in a sound that incorporates elements of funk, soul, and electronica. The title track and 'Is This a Dream?' showcase a newfound interest in rhythmic complexity and sound collage, while 'Tony Wilson Said' serves as a direct homage to the cultural architect of Manchester. Critically, the album was hailed as a triumphant return to form, with reviewers noting that the increased production value enhanced rather than obscured Gough's gift for melody and poignant lyricism. It stands as his most upbeat and sonically diverse collection since his Mercury Prize-winning debut.