Bootblacks release "Only You," reveal details of Paradise album

On Friday, Brooklyn’s Bootblacks released a new song called “Only You.” (Note: “Only You” is an original song, not a Yazoo cover.) It’s their first new song in over a year and the fourth pre-release single from their upcoming album Paradise. More on that below.

“Only You” is a killer tune layered with complex electronics, rhythmic guitar, even saxophone courtesy of musician Benjamin Harrison. Panther Almqvist delivers enticing vocals with a soothing, magnetic tone. The track feels lush, romantic, and rich with texture.

Adding even more pedigree to the song: drums and programming come from industrial legend Chris Vrenna. Known for playing drums with Nine Inch Nails during their formative years, Vrenna also records as Tweaker and has remixed or produced just about everyone in the scene—from Gary Numan to Skinny Puppy.

Paradise promises a more electronic era for Bootblacks

If “Only You” feels like it channels the ’80s—especially that saxophone—it’s intentional. Since releasing their last album in 2021, Bootblacks has undergone a lineup shift and emerged with a new, synth-heavy sound.

The current lineup is now a trio: Panther Almqvist on vocals, Barrett Hiatt on synth, and Kalle Fagerberg on guitar.

Paradise, their fifth album, leans heavily into ’80s New Wave aesthetics. It arrives June 13. According to the press notes:

The Bootblacks 2025 album “Paradise” marks a departure from the manic percussion and guitar-driven energy of the artist’s angular post-punk roots to a more electronic and immersive soundscape. The album continues their exploration of the 1980’s musical landscape with melancholic lyrics, shimmering guitar riffs, lush synths, sultry saxophones and bass-driven soundscapes. “Paradise” is an audacious ode to contradiction: lush yet raw, melancholic yet euphoric, polished yet pulsing with grit, where beauty and despair coexist.

You can purchase “Only You” and pre-order Paradise now at Bandcamp.