According to Duran Duran’s Nick Rhodes, the band “unlocked an unexpected box of curiosity and creativity” when they started making their 2023 album, Danse Macabre. Now, the latest product of that newfound energy has arrived: “New Moon (Dark Phase),” a reimagined version of their 1984 song “New Moon On Monday.”
Released as a single ahead of the upcoming deluxe re-release of Danse Macabre, “New Moon (Dark Phase)” swaps out the original’s pulsing ‘80s synths with a more ethereal, modern arrangement, featuring contributions from former band member, Andy Taylor. Throughout, vocalist Simon Le Bon carries the melody, gracefully slipping into his upper register on the verses and delivering the chorus’ catchy hook.
Speaking about the release in a new statement, Rhodes explained that the inspiration sparked with Danse Macabre “was somehow still lingering,” which led the band to return to the studio for even more recording. “I loved the idea of expanding the collection, because we could,” he said. “Why not add some of the songs that we considered initially now that we had the luxury of a little more time?”
From there, Duran Duran recorded several bonus tracks, including “New Moon (Dark Phase),” a cover of ELO’s “Evil Woman,” and a new instrumental titled “Masque of the Pink Death.” Plus, the vinyl release of Danse Macabre De Luxe will include four additional bonus tracks, none of which will be available elsewhere (something Rhodes likened to “justice for vinyl collectors”).
Danse Macabre De Luxe itself is due in digital format on October 11th, and physical formats on October 25th. Pre-orders are ongoing.
Up next, Duran Duran will hit the road for an East Coast Halloween tour this fall, culminating with a grand Halloween party at Madison Square Garden on October 31st. Get tickets here.