In the ever-evolving world of British indie rock, few names spark as much intrigue as Matty Healy, the charismatic frontman of The 1975. Fresh off a period of reflection and recovery from their extensive touring schedule, Healy has dropped a bombshell update that's got fans buzzing: the band is officially back in the studio, crafting what could be their most anticipated project yet.
The Studio Grind: Sleepless Nights and Creative Sparks
Matty Healy's recent Reddit post paints a vivid picture of an artist fully immersed in his craft. Admitting to minimal sleep, Healy described splitting his days between intense studio sessions and late-night dives into the 2025 dystopian extraction shooter game, Arc Raiders. 'Hellooo I have been living in the studio and not sleeping much (happens I think normally one month a year) and after work playing Arc Raiders almost religiously,' he shared candidly. This raw honesty highlights Healy's relentless drive, a trait that's defined The 1975's career since their debut in 2013.
The new material follows their 2022 release, Being Funny in a Foreign Language, which showcased the band's signature blend of introspective lyrics, synth-pop hooks, and social commentary. Healy's post also teases a desire to connect with fans through gaming, asking for tips on playing without revealing his gamer tag— a modern twist that underscores his approachable persona in the digital age.
Balancing Music and Gaming: A New Healy Obsession
It's not just music that's captivating Healy right now. He confessed that Arc Raiders has become 'part of my life like an album,' marking a rare intersection of his professional and personal worlds. For a musician known for tackling heavy themes like mental health and politics in his songs, this gaming passion adds a relatable layer to his public image. Fans have flooded Reddit with excitement, speculating how these influences might seep into the lyrics of the upcoming tracks.
Two Albums in the Pipeline: 'Dogs' and Beyond
The real excitement stems from Healy's confirmation of not one, but two albums in development. During a Q&A session at Gateshead College in December, he revealed, 'We made two. It might be one, it might be two… but yeah, we’ve made two albums.' One of these has been tentatively named Dogs, a title that evokes the band's penchant for evocative, metaphorical naming conventions.
Denise Welch, Healy's TV star mother and a vocal supporter of her son's work, got an early listen during the band's downtime. Speaking at the Virgin Atlantic Attitude Awards in October, she enthused, 'It’s fabulous. It’s very different, but it’s got the DNA of the 1975, I think you’ll love it.' Her endorsement carries weight, given her insider access and the band's history of evolving soundscapes—from the raw energy of I like it when you sleep, for you are so beautiful yet so unaware of it to the polished introspection of their recent output.
Manager's Tease: 'Pretty Extraordinary' Sounds Ahead
Jamie Oborne, co-founder of the band's label Dirty Hit and their long-time manager, added fuel to the fire on The Money Trench podcast. 'They’re making a record at the moment. I don’t know when it will come out, but they’re making one,' he said. Emphasizing the band's earned right to perfectionism, Oborne noted, 'The world’s gonna be listening, so it needs to be right.' He described the early sounds as 'pretty extraordinary,' hinting at innovative production that could push The 1975 further into experimental territory.
This comes after a whirlwind period for the band. Towards the end of 2025, Healy told Reddit followers that the next two years look 'mental,' signaling a packed schedule of releases, potential tours, and creative endeavors.
From Hiatus to Revival: The 1975's Next Chapter
The studio news arrives on the heels of The 1975's announcement of an indefinite hiatus from live shows. In March 2024, during their final performance of the Still… At Their Very Best tour at Sacramento's Golden 1 Center, Healy bid an emotional farewell to fans. 'After this tour, we will be going on an indefinite hiatus with shows, so it’s wonderful to have you guys with us tonight,' he told the crowd, leaving many wondering about the band's future.
Yet, this break was always framed as a creative recharge rather than a full disbandment. The 1975 has a history of defying expectations—rising from Manchester's underground scene to global stardom with hits like 'Chocolate' and 'The Sound.' Their ability to weave personal narratives with broader cultural critiques has earned them a devoted following, and this studio return feels like a natural evolution.
What to Expect from the New Era
As The 1975 gears up for what could be a double-album drop, speculation runs rife. Will Dogs explore themes of loyalty, isolation, or societal 'packs,' much like their past work? Healy's gaming immersion suggests possible nods to virtual realities or escapism, aligning with the band's tech-savvy aesthetic. With Oborne's assurance of quality and Welch's glowing review, the pressure is on—but if history is any guide, The 1975 will deliver something boundary-pushing.
For UK fans, this news hits close to home, reigniting the Manchester sound that's influenced a generation. As Healy signs off his posts with a playful 'Loveeeee m x,' it's clear the fire still burns bright. Keep an eye on Everythiiing.com for updates as more details emerge from the studio.
In a music landscape dominated by fleeting trends, The 1975's deliberate pace reminds us why patience pays off in art. The next two years? Expect the mental chaos Healy promised— and a soundtrack to match.
