David Byrne has just released his first album of new songs via Matador Records in seven years, Who Is the Sky?, and people are already talking about it. What’s clear is that Byrne hasn’t lost his knack for mixing big ideas with a wink and a smile — sometimes literally.
David Byrne – ‘The Avant Garde’ (Official Lyric Video)
The Guardian admitted the record “frequently sounds fantastic,” even if the “wacky jokes and miaowing” take some getting used to. On the flip side, Far Out Magazine called it “a strange, delightful record” and “a manic celebration of pop modernism.” Rolling Stone Australia leaned into the theatrical angle, saying Byrne is essentially writing musical comedy now, while Paste described it as “a joyous rejoinder to a creeping sense of gloom.”
And there are plenty of moments to love. St. Vincent pops up on ‘Everybody Laughs,’ Hayley Williams joins on ‘What Is the Reason for It?,’ and across the record you hear everything from Cuban rhythms to mariachi brass to old-school string flourishes. As When The Horn Blows summed it up, the album is all about “joy, expression, love and affection amongst the darkest of places.”
David Byrne – ‘What Is The Reason For It? (ft. Hayley Williams)’ (Official Video)
David Byrne
Who Is The Sky
Tracklisting
1. Everybody Laughs
2. When We Are Singing
3. My Apartment Is My Friend
4. A Door Called No
5. What Is the Reason for It?
6. I Met the Buddha at a Downtown Party
7. Don’t Be Like That
8. The Avant Garde
9. Moisturizing Thing
10. I’m an Outsider
11. She Explains Things to Me
12. The Truth
TOUR DATES
Select packages include premium tickets, a tour of the stage and an on-stage photo opportunity, a signed copy of David Byrne’s photo book, and early entry into the venue. For more information, visit vipnation.com.
New Zealand Tour Date:
14/01/2026 – Auckland, New Zealand – Spark Arena
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