After successfully redefining their sound and identity in 2024, Dundee-based pop-rock band Copper Lungs is gearing up for a major milestone with the release of Broken Beautiful, the title track from their upcoming album. Having built a strong reputation in Scotland’s music scene, the band is now ready to take the next step in its career.
With catchy melodies and relatable lyricism, Broken Beautiful offers a glimpse into what fans can expect from the full album. We caught up with frontman Darren to discuss their latest release, the journey behind the record, and what’s next for the band.
1. What has been the biggest challenge in redefining Copper Lungs’ identity and sound, and how did you overcome it?
We knew that, musically, we wanted to evolve as a band while staying true to what Copper Lungs was, which can be challenging as music tastes develop throughout the years. But we feel we’ve found a good balance through the writing process.
When we decided to write new music, I was determined to sing about the things in my life I needed to vent about or process. Embracing vulnerability is always something that can be daunting, especially when trying to express personal experiences in a way that remains relatable to others. I think I’m using these songs as a way to say what needs to be said, and they almost became an outlet for this, which made this easier.
2. You describe your new single, Broken Beautiful, as the missing piece that brought the album together. Can you share more about the songwriting process and why this track was so essential?
This was the last song we wrote for the album, and it completed the arc we had been building. The songwriting process was freeing, almost like the song wrote itself.
Lyrically, it captured the vulnerability and acceptance of imperfection that became the core of the album’s message. Without it, the album wouldn’t have felt as complete. When I came up with the name Broken Beautiful, everything clicked into place and this was going to represent the theme of the album.
3. How does Broken Beautiful compare to your previous work?
Broken Beautiful is definitely a step forward for us. While our earlier work was more raw and impulsive, this track has a more refined and introspective quality. We’ve experimented with different textures and production techniques, making it feel bigger and more immersive.
It’s also more emotional in a way that we haven’t explored before. It was really important that this album was relatable to people, and I think we’ve achieved this in a way we are very proud of.
4. What are the top three albums that helped shape Copper Lungs’ sound?
I always find this difficult to answer as I don’t think much about other music when I’m writing for Copper Lungs. In terms of experimenting with synths and sounds, ‘The 1975’ self-titled album really sticks out for me as something that always inspired me to develop or sound and push boundaries. ‘Only Revolutions’ by Biffy Clyro has always influenced us to lean to the ‘heavier’ guitar sounds with hard hitting moments in our music. Lastly, I’d say the ‘Try Hard’ EP by The Band Camino. We just loved their entire pop rock vibe and the hooks in this, and that’s something we’ve always strived to achieve in our music.
5. Looking back on your journey, what advice would you give your younger selves just starting out in music?
I’d tell our younger selves to stop worrying about being ‘perfect’ and just focus on making the music we love. There’s so much pressure at the beginning, but the more we’ve let go of expectations and followed our instincts, the better our music has gotten.
I’d also say just be vulnerable with your music and the message you want to deliver, as this is what makes a great identity in music!
6. With the full album dropping in May, what can fans expect from the rest of Broken Beautiful? Do you have any live shows or special plans for 2025?
The rest of the album is a journey. Broken Beautiful represents the beginning of it. It’s a bit of a rollercoaster of emotions, with moments of introspection, raw energy, and even some unexpected experimental sounds.
We’re planning a tour to celebrate the album’s release in 2025, and we have some surprises in store, like a few acoustic performances and a special album release show where we’ll play the entire album live. We have so much more to announce but below is a list of the current announced dates.
March 21st – King Tuts Glasgow
May 23rd – Cafe Drummonds Aberdeen
May 30th – Church Dundee
June 29th – The Heartland Festival
Broken Beautiful is out now:
