Bananarama have released Masquerade as the lead single and title track from their 12th studio album.
The slick electro pop number follows taster track Favourite and features lyrics that tap into our growing awareness of identity.
“When I was in lockdown, there were a lot of conversations happening to do with inclusivity, diversity and gender and racial equality,” says Sara Dallin.
“And that kind of led to this idea of ‘masquerade’: how you present yourself in different ways depending on the situation, but really, you just want people to live how they want to live. It’s a song we’re really very proud of.”
Originally conceived as an EP, the record came to life as the pandemic wiped out Bananarama’s live schedule in 2020.
“I love writing songs; it’s probably my favourite part,” Sara shares. “Shutting myself away and coming up with ideas and then telling a story in less than 4 minutes, it really is quite an art.”
“Arranging the music, vocals and harmonies really is our forte,” adds Keren.
The album coincides with the 40th anniversary of Bananarama’s Top 5 breakthrough It Ain’t What You Do (It’s the Way That You Do It) with Fun Boy Three in 1982, with live shows and more surprises on the horizon, according to a press release.
‘Masquerade’ is due July 22 and available to pre-order now.
