Joe Goddard has been exploring the interplay between intuition and creation. Over the past few years, the UK producer, songwriter, and notable figure in dance and indie music has focused on separating his conscious thoughts from his music-making process, aiming to create a more instinctive and empathetic approach to his work.
The culmination of this exploration is his third solo album, “Harmonics,” slated for release on July 12. The album spans 14 tracks that blend elements of UK garage, house, hip-hop, pop, and disco. Goddard collaborates with a diverse group of artists, allowing each to shine within his musical universe. Notable contributions include Eno Williams of Ibibio Sound Machine on the afro-house track “Progress,” UK rapper Oranje on the boom-bap inspired “When Love’s Out of Fashion,” and former Wild Beasts frontman Hayden Thorpe on the house track “Summon.” Hot Chip bandmates Alexis Taylor and Al Doyle feature on “Heal Your Mind,” a reflective half-step ballad, among other guest appearances from artists like Tom McFarland of Jungle, Bronx singer Fiorious, Guinean vocalist Falle Nioke, and UK jazz musician Alabaster DePlume.
Today, Goddard released the opening track of “Harmonics,” “Moments Die,” featuring the lush vocals of Brooklyn artist Barrie. The track, inspired by a remix project with Barrie, showcases the ethereal synergy between their talents. Goddard’s lyrical inspiration for the track comes from John Berger’s “And Our Faces, My Heart, Brief as Photos.”
The accompanying music video, directed by Nathan Castiel, was filmed in New York and Hastings and serves as a visual meditation on the song’s themes.
Goddard also highlights his solo work on tracks like “Follow Me,” reflecting his more introspective side. His approach to collaboration on the album emphasizes respect and openness, allowing for a fluid exchange of creative energies without dominating the direction.
“Harmonics” derives its name from Goddard’s desire to produce an inclusive, empathetic, and harmonious collection of music. The album seeks to celebrate the deeper, spiritual connections in music, contrasting with the aggressive divisions often seen in the world today. It promises a celebration of compassion, collaboration, and creativity, resonating with the soulful essence that Goddard admires in his favorite genres like soul, funk, house, and garage.