After a 24-year hiatus, British band Rialto has announced their return with a new album, ‘Neon and Ghost Signs’, set for release on April 25, 2025. To give fans a taste of what’s to come, they have released a new single, ‘No One Leaves This Discotheque Alive’, and have scheduled a series of intimate in-store performances at Rough Trade record stores across the UK.
The new single, ‘No One Leaves This Discotheque Alive’, showcases Rialto’s ability to blend their signature lush soundscapes with modern influences. The track brims with atmospheric instrumentation, haunting synth layers, and dynamic percussion, all supporting Louis Eliot’s pure vocals, evoking a sound reminiscent of the Pet Shop Boys. Lyrically, the song delves into themes of escapism and the fleeting nature of nightlife, with a touch of existential reflection. Lines like “I just want to lose my head, no one leaves the discotheque alive” capture the raw emotion and introspection woven into the track. The sound combines nostalgia from their earlier works with a fresh, innovative approach, offering both long-time fans and new listeners a taste of Rialto’s enduring artistry.
The upcoming album, ‘Neon and Ghost Signs’, is expected to expand on the themes introduced in the single. Fans can anticipate a blend of Rialto’s classic lush arrangements and reflective storytelling, layered with contemporary sonic elements. The album is set to reflect the band’s remarkable evolution over the last two decades, providing a collection of tracks that bridge their iconic past with a nice modern twist.
To promote the album, Rialto has scheduled a series of intimate in-store performances at Rough Trade record stores across the UK. These shows provide a rare opportunity for fans to experience the band’s new material in a close and personal setting. The scheduled dates are all around the UK including Bristol on April 27, Nottingham on April 28, and Liverpool on April 29 and London on April 30. Tickets for these events are expected to sell quickly, as anticipation for Rialto’s live return builds.
Formed in London in 1997, Rialto gained fame with their self-titled debut album in 1998, featuring hits like ‘Untouchable’ and ‘Monday Morning 5:19’. Their distinctive Britpop sound, characterised by lush orchestration and poignant lyrics, earned them critical acclaim and saw their debut album peak at 21 on the Official Charts. Despite their initial success, the band disbanded after the tour for their second album, ‘Night on Earth,’ in 2001, leaving fans longing for a comeback that has finally arrived.
Rialto’s comeback arrives at a time when nostalgia for Britpop and ’90s music is enjoying a resurgence through the likes of Oasis and Blur. Yet, their return isn’t merely a glance backward, it’s a celebration of their ability to remain relevant and push boundaries in the evolving music landscape. ‘Neon and Ghost Signs’ promises to bridge the gap between the band’s iconic history and their refreshed artistic vision for the future. With their clear unique ability to craft timeless music, Rialto’s return ensures that 2025 will be a defining year in their extraordinary legacy.
Information about tickets can be found here.
