Modern English's new album, 1 2 3 4, produced by Mario McNulty (David Bowie, Lou Reed, and Nine Inch Nails), serves as a reminder of Modern English's enduring artistry. It embodies the raw energy and sonic allure that has characterized their music since the band's inception in 1979.

From seething punk anthems like "Long in The Tooth" and "Plastic" to keyboard-driven melodic rockers such as "Not Fake" and "Crazy Lovers," and the haunting, darkwave-infused tracks like "Exploding" and "Out to Lunch," the album traverses a diverse landscape, showcasing the band's versatility and creative depth while never letting go of the post-punk sound they helped pioneer.

Throughout 1 2 3 4, Modern English demonstrates a keen sense of dynamics, effortlessly transitioning between moments of intensity and introspection. The album's closing track, "Voices," captivates with its subdued atmosphere, enveloping listeners in Robbie Grey's somber vocals and ethereal soundscapes - a masterful blend of spacey psychedelic rock and tranquil shoegaze.

Reflecting on the album's thematic content, Grey elucidates, "As a lyricist, it's always about personal journeys, or the journey of the band, or just getting pissed off with governments and politicians." Tracks like "Not My Leader" and "Long In the Tooth" also resonate with poignant observations on contemporary society, delivering messages that are both timely and timeless.

The genesis of the album coincided with the spring 2020 COVID-19 pandemic lockdown, during which Michael Conroy and Grey embarked on a collaborative songwriting process, exchanging ideas remotely. Despite the challenges posed by the global crisis, creativity flourished, culminating in a collection of songs imbued with a sense of urgency and authenticity. Recording sessions then took place in a residential studio in upstate New York, where the collective opted for a raw, energetic approach, capturing the essence of their live performances. With minimal overdubs and an emphasis on live instrumentation, 1 2 3 4 exudes a palpable sense of immediacy and spontaneity.

As Grey reflects on the band's enduring legacy and creative evolution, he underscores the significance of their early days and the unwavering bond shared by the original members. "We're still the same people inside," he asserts, emphasizing the indispensable role played by each member in shaping the distinctive sound of Modern English.

Modern English continues to stand as a beacon of authenticity and artistic integrity, inspiring listeners with their timeless music and unwavering commitment to their craft. With this new project, they reaffirm their status as pioneers of post-punk evolution, leaving an indelible mark on music history.

Emerging from Colchester, Essex, England in 1977, Modern English has held steadfast to its core lineup - vocalist Robbie Grey, guitarist Gary McDowell, bassist Mick Conroy, and keyboardist Stephen Walker - throughout its remarkable tenure.

Recent years have seen Modern English garner widespread acclaim. Thanks to social media, a new generation of listeners has unearthed their rich discography, while contemporary artists cite them as a profound influence. This resurgence in popularity has translated into sold-out tours featuring performances of their early albums and a triumphant main stage appearance at the 2023 Cruel World Festival, captivating an audience of over 25,000 fervent fans.