Tom Fleming Announces Second Solo Album ‘Endless Rain’, Set for October Release

Tom Fleming, the former Wild Beasts songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, has announced his second solo album under the “One True Pairing” moniker, titled Endless Rain, due for release on 25th October via Domino.

The album, recorded in 2022 at Dublin’s Hellfire Studios with producer John ‘Spud’ Murphy, represents a bold new chapter in Fleming’s musical journey. Endless Rain showcases a rich blend of influences, combining elements of traditional music, classical, and noise rock. The album was shaped by the backgrounds of its diverse collaborators, including Fleming’s long-term associate Josh Taylor-Moon, who arranged and engineered the record, and contributed instrumentally. Lankum’s Cormac MacDiamarda and Percolator’s Eleanor Mylor also feature prominently on the album.

Sonically ambitious and unlike anything in Fleming’s previous work, Endless Rain includes the previously acclaimed singles “Frozen Food Centre,” “Mid-Life Crisis,” and “Be Strong.” The announcement is accompanied by the release of a new single, “A Landlord’s Death,” which rises to a thrilling and sonically adventurous climax, featuring a striking arpeggio on the fiddle by MacDiamarda. Fleming comments on the track’s defiant message: “Parasites, the fucking lot. No tears shed for the guilty. We’re coming.”

The single’s video, directed by Michael Julings, depicts a man in a state of indulgence, metaphorically exploring themes of greed and excess. Fleming explains, “We see our hero at a table full of his heart’s desires. He gobbles it down greedily, never stopping to think why he is there nor where his greed might lead him. He just can’t help himself, can he?”

Endless Rain is deeply personal, reflecting Fleming’s own struggles and introspection during a difficult period at the end of 2019. In Cumbria over Christmas, after a series of personal setbacks, Fleming found himself creatively blocked until a sudden burst of inspiration led to the creation of the album. Tracks like “Frozen Food Centre” explore themes of small-town life and childhood, while others like “Human Frailty” and “Prince of Darkness” delve into acceptance and introspective storytelling, all set against the backdrop of Fleming’s exploration of masculinity and identity.

Fans can look forward to hearing these new tracks live, with Fleming set to perform at London’s Purcell Room at the Southbank Centre on Saturday, 16th November 2024.

About Tom Fleming / One True Pairing

One True Pairing is an ongoing musical project led by Tom Fleming, known for his previous work as a member of the British indie band Wild Beasts. After Wild Beasts disbanded in 2017, Fleming embarked on a solo journey under the moniker One True Pairing, allowing him to delve into new sounds and themes distinct from his previous work. The name, borrowed from the fan fiction term “One True Pairing,” reflects Fleming’s focus on deeply personal and idealised themes within his music.

The Evolution of One True Pairing

Since launching One True Pairing in 2019, Fleming has carved out a unique space in the music world, blending alternative rock, post-punk, and synth-pop with a raw, guitar-driven sound. His debut self-titled album, released in September 2019, marked a significant departure from the artful and polished sound of Wild Beasts, embracing a more direct and gritty aesthetic. The album was well-received for its emotional intensity and lyrical depth, tackling themes of masculinity, identity, and socio-political issues.

Musical Style and Themes

One True Pairing’s music is characterised by its powerful combination of heavy guitar riffs, atmospheric synths, and Fleming’s deep, resonant vocals. The project allows Fleming to explore themes that resonate with the complexities of modern life, including love, struggle, and the Everyman experience. His lyrics often reflect on personal and societal challenges, capturing a sense of urgency and authenticity that has become a hallmark of his work.

New Release: Endless Rain

Building on the success of his debut, Fleming is set to release his second album, titled Endless Rain, in October 2024. This new album promises to further develop the themes and sound that One True Pairing is known for, while also introducing new elements that showcase Fleming’s growth as an artist. Endless Rain is expected to feature a mix of introspective ballads and powerful anthems, continuing the project’s exploration of the human condition through a blend of gritty realism and poetic reflection.

Standout Tracks and Reception

Fleming’s music with One True Pairing continues to resonate with both fans and critics. Tracks like “One True Pairing” and “Dawn at the Factory” from his debut album have been praised for their emotional depth and strong, anthemic qualities. The anticipation for Endless Rain is high, with fans eager to see how Fleming will build on the foundation laid by his debut.

Impact and Ongoing Influence

One True Pairing has allowed Fleming to establish himself as a solo artist with a distinctive voice and a unique approach to music. The project’s focus on real-world themes, combined with its raw and unfiltered sound, has made it a significant contribution to contemporary music. Fleming’s work continues to push boundaries, offering listeners a powerful and authentic exploration of life’s complexities.

As One True Pairing moves forward, Fleming’s commitment to evolving his sound and deepening his exploration of personal and societal themes suggests that the project will continue to be a compelling force in the music industry. Endless Rain is poised to further cement One True Pairing’s place in the modern music landscape, showcasing Tom Fleming’s enduring talent and artistic vision.