Dry Cleaning Announces Third Album 'Secret Love': The Sound of Trust and Quiet Strength

The acclaimed London-based post-punk quartet, Dry Cleaning, has formally announced the impending arrival of their third full-length studio album, titled "Secret Love." Fans can mark their calendars for January 9, 2026, when the record is set to be released under the banner of the iconic independent label, 4AD. The group—comprised of vocalist Florence Shaw, guitarist Tom Dowse, bassist Lewis Maynard, and drummer Nick Buxton—characterizes this new collection of songs as the definitive "quintessence of human connections from which our sound grew." This statement underscores the deeply interpersonal themes woven throughout the record’s sonic tapestry.

The album campaign has been spearheaded by a pair of compelling singles. The second track to be unveiled, "Cruise Ship Designer," followed the initial offering, "Hit My Head All Day." The lyrics of "Hit My Head All Day" serve as a sharp commentary on the modern condition, specifically exploring the pervasive issues of manipulated perception and the relentless deluge of informational noise. This thematic focus captures the contemporary experience of widespread digital fatigue and a growing societal distrust in the information landscape.

The visual accompaniment created for the single "Cruise Ship Designer" is notably striking. It features bassist Lewis Maynard engaging in a sequence of minimalist choreography. This deliberate, pared-down movement transforms the simple physical act into a form of meditation, functioning as a corporeal response that aligns with the body's internal rhythms and the track's underlying mood.

The creative process for "Secret Love" unfolded within various rehearsal spaces across Peckham. The band members reflected that the recording sessions offered them a chance to "relearn how to listen to each other," emphasizing a renewed focus on internal dynamics. Production duties were handled by Cate Le Bon, a highly respected figure known for her distinctive work with artists including Wilco and Deerhunter. Le Bon’s influence was crucial in helping Dry Cleaning realize an album where, structurally and emotionally, every single note sounds like an affirmation of trust—a concept that stands as the central pillar of the entire project.

Stylistically, "Secret Love" represents a natural and compelling evolution from their previous, highly praised albums, "New Long Leg" (2021) and "Stumpwork" (2022). These earlier releases earned critical acclaim for their unique synthesis of raw post-punk immediacy and a characteristic poetic distance. While music critics frequently cite the influence of seminal bands such as Wire, Magazine, and Joy Division in Dry Cleaning’s sound, they consistently point out the singular energy emanating from Florence Shaw’s vocal monochrome. Her distinctive spoken-word delivery and detached cadence often draw comparisons to experimental performance artists, most notably Laurie Anderson.

The forthcoming album, "Secret Love," will feature a comprehensive tracklist of 11 songs. Highlights confirmed for the record include:

• "Hit My Head All Day"

In anticipation of the release, Dry Cleaning has scheduled their largest solo performance yet. This milestone concert is set to take place on April 22, 2026, at the renowned O2 Academy Brixton venue in London. Ultimately, the band offers a profound summation of their work: "Secret Love is not merely a collection of music; it provides a methodology for learning how to truly hear again."