The likely lads: The Libertines share new track ‘Heart of the Matter’

The Libertines have shared ‘Heart of the Matter’ ahead of releasing their new album ‘Anthems for Doomed Youth’ on September 11th. Originally slated for release last Friday, the record was delayed to made room for a week of “shenanigans” - including a pub quiz, photo exhibition, and various listening parties.

Speaking to DIY before their landmark Reading and Leeds headline set, the band’s John Hassell spoke about the importance of returning with new material. “It’s the beginning of a new chapter for the band,” he said. “The decision wasn’t that difficult in the end – we are a functioning band, lets do an album.”

He also added that recording ‘Anthems For Doomed Youth’ miles away in Thailand gave The Libertines the fresh break they needed. “I think it was important that it was so far away, and the fact that we were all together in the middle of Thailand in a village,” he explained. “I think it was the perfect place for us to do the album. It gave us the space and time to really get focused.”

Listen to new single ‘Heart of the Matter’ below, and read the DIY review of The Libertines’ ‘Anthems For Doomed Youth’ here.