London-based duo ColourTelly return with a timely and powerful release in their new single “Breathe”. Recorded in their South London studio in Penge, the track isn’t just a song — it’s a poignant commentary on the chaos of our modern world. With its blend of raw lyricism, haunting production, and saxophone flourishes, Breathe sets the stage for the band’s upcoming second album It’s All Mad Out Here, due for release on October 2, 2025.
At its core, “Breathe” is about finding peace in a world weighed down by corruption, violence, and political turmoil. Evangeline Cunningham’s vocals deliver the lyrics with striking emotion, balancing vulnerability and defiance in equal measure. The song resonates strongly with today’s global climate, addressing societal disarray and human suffering while challenging listeners not to stay passive.
ColourTelly themselves have noted that when they first wrote “Breathe”, they never imagined they would be releasing it at a time when, in their own words, “speaking out against genocide could land you in jail.” That chilling observation makes the song’s release all the more urgent, giving it the same timeless, socially conscious energy as Prince’s “Sign of the Times.”
Musically, “Breathe” draws inspiration from Portishead and other trip-hop pioneers, weaving together moody atmospheres, rich textures, and subtle electronic flourishes. Ollie Chubb’s production creates a layered sonic world that feels cinematic and immersive, while the addition of Joe Elliott on saxophone adds a soulful edge that heightens the track’s emotional impact.
The pairing of Evangeline’s evocative vocals and Ollie’s meticulous production is the foundation of ColourTelly’s sound. Together, they craft songs that don’t just entertain but provoke thought — something that’s been their hallmark since forming in 2018.
What makes “Breathe” significant is not just its sound, but its honesty. ColourTelly refuse to shy away from uncomfortable truths, addressing political unrest, human suffering, and the confusion of living through dark times. Yet the track is not without hope — its title itself suggests resilience, the act of pausing, surviving, and holding on even when the world feels suffocating.
The single also acts as the first glimpse into It’s All Mad Out Here, a body of work the duo describe as deeply personal and unflinchingly reflective of our times. If “Breathe” is any indication, the album will offer more than just music; it will be a mirror to the world around us.
ColourTelly are set to perform at Paper Dress Vintage in London on September 23, 2025, supporting Shy Puma and Francesca Fulmini. This live performance will give audiences a chance to experience “Breathe” in an intimate, raw setting — and likely deepen its impact.
With an ever-growing library of unreleased material, ColourTelly promise that “Breathe” is just the beginning of what’s to come. Their debut album IISides (2022) introduced them as a bold new voice, but this next chapter feels even more vital.
“Breathe” is a haunting and necessary song for our times. With its mix of trip-hop influences, evocative saxophone, and lyrics that pull no punches, ColourTelly deliver a single that is both socially urgent and musically captivating.
It’s not just a track to listen to — it’s one to absorb, reflect on, and carry forward. In a world full of noise, “Breathe”reminds us to pause, to acknowledge reality, and to find strength in truth.
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