Pet Shop Boys have released a new double A-side single, ‘New London Boy / All the young dudes’. The two tracks offer a thematic exploration of London, capturing the period when Neil Tennant first moved to the city. While ‘New London Boy’ is an original, ‘All the young dudes’ is a cover of David Bowie’s classic.
The first track, ‘New London Boy’, is quintessential Pet Shop Boys. Its electronic pop sound is anchored in deep synth lines, creating a rich foundation for the track. Over this, a delicate, ascending arpeggio weaves alongside Tennant’s soft vocals, bringing a sense of uplift and introspection. The lyrics reflect the emotional complexity of Tennant’s decision to leave home for London, a leap of faith to discover himself. His storytelling, combined with the polished production, results in a track that feels both deeply personal and universally relatable—a standout pop anthem.
The second track, ‘All the young dudes’, echoes the cultural landscape of Tennant’s youth, as it was a song that resonated during his early days in London. This cover introduces a unique twist with a heavy synth accordion intro, reminiscent of a wedding march, which surprisingly complements the Pet Shop Boys’ signature pop sound. Tennant’s familiar vocals add a fresh perspective to Bowie’s lyrics, creating a blend of homage and reinterpretation that pairs seamlessly with the introspective themes of ‘New London Boy’.
Together, these tracks offer a nostalgic glimpse into Tennant’s youth, wrapped in the synth-pop sound that made Pet Shop Boys icons. This double single is a thoughtful addition to their discography and a treat for longtime fans.
Words by Jack Dennison-Thompson
Support The Indiependent
We’re trying to raise £200 a month to help cover our operational costs. This includes our ‘Writer of the Month’ awards, where we recognise the amazing work produced by our contributor team. If you’ve enjoyed reading our site, we’d really appreciate it if you could donate to The Indiependent. Whether you can give £1 or £10, you’d be making a huge difference to our small team.