Total Fucking Darkness Releases "Desolation Boys"

The greatest new group in the world is Total Fucking Darkness, the explosive collaboration between Torquil Campbell, the endlessly effusive, increasingly bald member of Stars, and Stephen Ramsay, the gentle giant behind Montreal’s Young Galaxy. Partnering with English studio mastermind and synthesist Tom McFall—whose engineering credits include REM, Bloc Party, Twin Shadow, and Regina Spektor—the trio releases their latest single, "Desolation Boys," a ferocious mix of plastic pop, nihilistic handbag house, and razor-sharp absurdity.

Born out of a manic 72-hour writing spree with McFall flying in from London, "Desolation Boys" channels the group’s raw, unpredictable energy. The track sounds like three middle-aged men, fueled by the reckless abandon of knowing there’s nothing left to lose, attempting to shed the weight of the world from their shoulders. The result is wild, unfiltered, impossible to ignore, and, in their own words, “vaguely not boring.”

Written in the final hours of an exhausting session, "Desolation Boys" epitomizes Total Fucking Darkness’ approach: Maximum Creative Violence Immediately. The song is a whirlwind of savant-like lyrical spontaneity, thrashing synths, and a raw vocal take where Campbell can be faintly heard shouting “go fuck yourself” mid-chorus. Who is he yelling at? Probably himself.

"Desolation Boys" captures the group’s ongoing obsession with themes of existential futility, class struggle, and the outright rejection of anything that doesn’t hit with absolute force. "Tom came in and saved the day. We forced Torq to write this one against his will. He was in tears, but it’s our best track yet," says Stephen Ramsay.

Known for their incendiary performances and relentless sonic experimentation, Total Fucking Darkness has spent the last 30 years waging war against introspection and convention. Formed in the late ‘90s, the trio seeks to resurrect the ecstasy and chaos of a post-industrial rave while embracing their uniquely Canadian misadventures. Their sound is both nostalgic and forward-thinking, merging the euphoric pulse of early ‘90s house with a biting, modern electronic edge.

"Desolation Boys" continues the group’s descent into beautifully controlled chaos, following in the footsteps of previous releases like "Attack Decay Sustain Release" and "California Sun." This latest track is an exhilarating commitment to sonic destruction, a frenzied yet calculated experiment in pushing the limits of electronic music.

The group’s music is defined by layers of pulsating synths, distorted drum loops, and Campbell’s signature theatrical delivery. McFall’s expert touch adds a precision that keeps the chaos contained, allowing the sound to evolve into something uniquely hypnotic. Every element is carefully placed to create an atmosphere that is equally menacing and exhilarating, making "Desolation Boys" an essential addition to their growing discography.

While many bands soften with time, Total Fucking Darkness only grows louder, more unpredictable, and increasingly unhinged. Their sound refuses to fit neatly into any genre, embracing the extremes of pop, house, and experimental electronica in ways that defy expectations. Their ability to merge abrasive energy with infectious melodies makes them a unique force in modern music.

Live performances from Total Fucking Darkness are just as thrilling as their recorded output. Their shows are known for being unpredictable and intense, often feeling more like raves than concerts. The band feeds off the energy of their audience, creating a symbiotic loop of chaos and catharsis. Fans have come to expect the unexpected, whether it be spontaneous setlist changes, blistering extended jams, or Campbell’s off-the-cuff rants that blur the line between performance and outright provocation.

As Total Fucking Darkness charges forward, they show no signs of slowing down. With their unmistakable blend of irreverence, intensity, and innovation, they remain an unstoppable force in the underground music scene. "Desolation Boys" is more than a song—it’s a declaration, a riot, and a middle finger to everything ordinary. This is music designed to disrupt, unsettle, and exhilarate in equal measure. For those who have been waiting for something truly unpredictable, Total Fucking Darkness is here to deliver.