Liam Bailey unveils “A Perfect Release”, the second single from his forthcoming album Shadow Town. a record that finds one of Britain’s most distinctive voices stepping into a new phase of creative freedom.
Following lead single “Gold,” the new track leans further into the album’s stripped-back, emotionally direct approach.
Set for release on April 24, 2026, Shadow Town marks a significant turning point for Bailey. Reuniting with acclaimed producer Jimmy Hogarth (Amy Winehouse, Sia, The 1975), the album features a collection of songs rooted in songwriting, atmosphere and tone – drawing on British folk and pastoral soul as much as reggae and R&B, while resisting easy categorisation.
After years embedded in collaborative and sound system culture – including work with Big Crown Records and contributions to Nightmares On Wax’s Echo45 Sound System – Shadow Town sees Bailey return to the kind of songwriting he first explored on his debut Definitely Now. This is the sound of an artist reconnecting with his centre of gravity. “A Perfect Release” sits at the heart of that shift – a defining moment on a record built from instinct, space and emotional honesty.
Liam Bailey first emerged through EPs released on Amy Winehouse’s Lioness Records, before reaching a wider audience as co-writer and vocalist on Chase & Status’s UK Top 5 single “Blind Faith”. Since then, he has moved fluidly between scenes – from becoming a key figure within Brooklyn’s Big Crown Records to collaborating with artists including Paul Weller, Sleaford Mods, Rudimental, Lee “Scratch” Perry, Nightmares On Wax, Shy FX and Leon Michels.
With Shadow Town, Liam Bailey distils over two decades of musical experience into his most focused and personal work to date – a record that feels both understated and deeply assured.
UK HEADLINE TOUR – SEPTEMBER 2026
Monday 14th September – Glasgow, King Tuts
Tuesday 15th September – Manchester, Academy 3
Wednesday 16th September – Newcastle, Cluny 2
Friday 18th September – Birmingham, Institute 2
Sunday 20th September – Nottingham, Rescue Rooms
Tuesday 22nd September – Bristol, Exchange
Wednesday 23rd September – London, Bush Hall