Stone Roses Release New Single, ‘Beautiful Thing’

Psychedelic Madchester men the Stone Roses have unveiled the latest single from their “glorious” (according to singer Ian Brown) comeback album. “Beautiful Thing” is a seven-minute epic full of swirling guitars, excitable tambourines and luscious drum rolls.

It’s the second track off the as-yet-untitled new LP from the Roses, expected sometime in 2016. “All for One” — a rollicking musketeers battle call — made the rounds in May 2016. The song was their first recording as a band since 1994’s Second Coming.

The “I Want To Be Adored” artists briefly chatted with NME in spring 2016, noting that the recording sessions were “like a dream.” Their headquarters are at London’s Church Studios, owned by pop producer Paul Epworth (U2, Coldplay). There’s no indication as to when the full-length will be available, but “Beautiful Thing” can now be purchased online, with a 12-inch vinyl version to be released July 22, 2016.

Fans had hoped to hear new material from Brown and Co. in 2012, when the group reunited for a spate of concerts, including appearances at the Coachella and Pukkelpop festivals. The tour lasted well into 2013 and earned mixed reviews.

The 33-year-old group announced a small cluster of live dates but were forced to cancel their June 2-3 shows in Japan because drummer Alan “Reni” Wren fell and fractured two ribs. The Stone Roses are expected to fulfill the remaining dates, including a June 30 stop at Madison Square Garden in New York City with Rodrigo y Gabriela.

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