Mr Scruff, aka the multi-talented Andy Carthy, is something of a Manchester institution, having entertained people with his music, marathon DJ sets, tea shops and illustrations for (whisper it) nearly 20 years.
His forthcoming fifth album, Friendly Bacteria, shows that he has lost none of his brilliance, and we're delighted to be able to premiere the video of the lead track from it.
Render Me features an insistent beat, distinctive piano stabs and delicate touches of electronica, together with a great guest vocal from fellow Mancunian Denis Jones, while the video features an infestation of what we presume to be Mr Scruff's 'friendly bacteria'. Well, they look like they're happy at least.
Meanwhile, for the album, in Scruff's own words expect it to be “tougher, sparser, less samples, more bass. More vocals and collaborations and shorter tunes.” All of which sounds excellent.
Treat your eyes and ears and get watching immediately - and be sure to catch him in action when he hosts a full day-long takeover of London's Roundhouse on 31st May. Tickets and more info available here.
Friendly Bacteria is released May 19th on Ninja Tune Records