We Are Worlds Away by Phenomenal Handclap Band

The title track "We Are Worlds Away" represents a bold new chapter for the trio, recorded at Stockholm's Pansarmarängen Studio with longtime collaborators Fredrik Swahn (Dungen, Melody's Echo Chamber) and Morgan Phalen (Justice, Drakkar Nowhere). The single showcases the band's signature blend of live disco instrumentation with modern production techniques, creating an expansive sonic landscape that lives up to its evocative title. "This collaboration felt natural from the moment we started working together in Stockholm," says Daniel Collás. "Fredrik and Morgan brought an energy that perfectly complemented our vision for these songs. We wanted to create something that felt both intimate and cosmic - music that could transport listeners to another place entirely."

The B-side track "Free Time" further demonstrates the band's collaborative spirit, featuring the tasteful guitar work of Jaleel Bunton (TV on the Radio) and produced by Daniel with help from veteran Swedish producer Anders Hansson (Secret Service, Army of Lovers), who co-wrote the band's earlier hit, “Do What You Like.” The single package includes both radio and 12" mix versions, plus an exclusive a cappella version of "We Are Worlds Away", intended for DJs to make their own dub with the instrumental on the flipside.

Written at the height of the pandemic, "Like A Constellation" is a sprawling cosmic disco epic that took shape in the band's Williamsburg studio, while Daniel was also producing This is Brian Jackson, JKriv's "Try Again," and the band's own Burning Bridges EP. The track features ethereal vocals from Juliet and Monika - who contribute lead guitar and synthesizers, respectively - alongside Daniel on drums, Hammond organ, and production duties. They're joined by Jason Kriveloff (JKriv) on rhythm guitar and session legend Binky Brice on bass, known for his work on hits like Billy Ocean's "Caribbean Queen." Lyrically, "Like A Constellation" explores themes of existential self-reliance, liberation, and creative renewal, serving as both a personal statement and a reflection of the band's experiences during the isolation of the pandemic era.

Since reforming in 2017, The Phenomenal Handclap Band has garnered praise from music luminaries including Paul McCartney, Zane Lowe, Bryan Ferry, Gilles Peterson, Elton John, Don Letts, and Simon LeBon. Their releases on respected labels such as Daptone, Toy Tonics, and Glitterbox have solidified their reputation as one of New York's most essential live disco acts.

The band's journey began in New York's East Village when producer Daniel Collás formed the group, leading to their acclaimed self-titled debut and subsequent album "Form and Control" (2012). After touring with Bryan Ferry and performing at major festivals including Glastonbury and Wireless, the band took a creative hiatus before returning stronger than ever with a string of singles that have defined the modern disco revival.

"We Are Worlds Away" has already received critical acclaim, with previous releases earning 4-star reviews from NME and The Guardian, plus features on NPR First Watch and NPR In Concert. The track continues the band's tradition of creating music that bridges the gap between underground credibility and mainstream appeal.

Phenomenal Handclap Band - We Are Worlds Away
Release Date September 2025
Label Nublu Records

Tracklist
1. We Are Worlds Away (featuring Morgan Phalen)
2. Free Time (featuring Jaleel Bunton) [Explicit 12” Mix]
3. Like A Constellation
4. We Are Worlds Away (featuring Morgan Phalen) [Radio Edit]
5. Free Time (featuring Jaleel Bunton) [Radio Edit]
6. We Are Worlds Away [Instrumental]
7. Free Time [Instrumental]