Veteran Scottish indie band Teenage Fanclub have thrown down the gauntlet – they're back with a 13th album, 'Do Not Dare To Dream', and it's shaping up to be their most electrifying release yet! Scheduled for an October 9, 2026 drop via Merge Records, this new studio album follows hot on the heels of their critically-acclaimed 2023 record 'Nothing Lasts Forever'. And if you're craving a sonic fix in the meantime, they've also just unleashed a brand-new single, 'Day In The Sun', a mesmerising atmospheric track that's accompanied by a captivating video directed by Donald Milne.
The Glasgow quartet, formed back in 1989, has always been known for its distinctive sound – think soaring melodic guitars, intricate harmonies, and deeply introspective songwriting. And with 'Do Not Dare To Dream', they're taking their signature style to new heights, as core members Norman Blake and Raymond McGinley are joined by Euros Childs, Francis Macdonald, and David McGowan in the studio. Word is that the creative process was a more spontaneous affair this time around, with the band favouring collaboration over precision – and it's clear from the get-go that the results are nothing short of breathtaking.
So what does it all mean? Singer Norman Blake spits forth his trademark wit: "Those 'dare to dream' sentiments are kind of ridiculous, I don't think the world works that way." Meanwhile, bandmate Raymond McGinley chimes in with some words of wisdom: "We can still be cheerful and optimistic in the face of things not being great," – a mantra that's woven into the very fabric of their new material. And with ten stunning tracks to choose from, including 'There Was You', 'Over and Over', and the title track 'I Do Not Dare To Dream' itself, it's clear that Teenage Fanclub is in top form.
And if you're anything like us, you can't wait to experience this new album live – which is exactly what Teenage Fanclub has planned! The band will be embarking on an epic UK and Ireland tour in November 2026, kicking off in Cambridge on the 3rd and making stops in major cities including Bristol, Brighton, London, Manchester, Leeds, Newcastle, and multiple dates in Glasgow and Edinburgh. Don't miss out – with this many shows across the nations, you've got no excuse to miss your favourite indie heroes live on stage!
This announcement comes hot on the heels of a busy period for the band members, who've been keeping themselves incredibly busy indeed. Earlier this year, Norman Blake collaborated with former Suede guitarist Bernard Butler and James Grant on a supergroup project – 'Murmurs' is their album, and it's a real treat! And let's not forget that they even wrapped up a tour that concluded in Glasgow just last month... Talk about staying active!