In 2020 when the world was shut down and in need of connection, IDLES’ Joe Talbot launched BALLEY TV. The talk show series/free therapy session/virtual pub was filmed in isolation with guests including Lauren Mayberry of CHVRCHES, Mike Skinner, Sharon Van Etten, Arlo Parks, Billy Bragg, Kate Tempest, Kenny Beats and more. The conversations ranged from current events and creating art in a pandemic to the occasional quiz segment and marshmallow eating contest. On the concept of the show, Talbot says, “What goes down must come up. We wanted to make a show around the beauty of Art that comes from the ashes of circumstance. Balley up.”
Now Talbot and Vans come together for a BALLEY TV Special, “In Defense of the Arts,”with a nearly hour long episode filmed in the Old Vic Tunnels at House of Vans London featuring a range of special guest interviews and performances including Deep Tan, Nuha Ruby Ra, Katy J Pearons, as well as IDLES and slowthai teaming up for a new version of Ultra Mono’s “Model Village.” A studio version of the collaboration will also be available on July 20 with Talbot saying, “We are fortunate to announce our forces have joined with the enigmatic and vibrant soul that is Slowthai. Go dig.”
Vans and IDLES expand their growing relationship with a custom footwear release which will be made available as part of a Vans Family giveaway for fans. Stay tuned to Vans.com/family for additional information.
2020 also saw IDLES release their third LP Ultra Mono via Partisan Records, the album debuted at number one on the UK charts and cemented their place as one of the most important bands making music right now. Known for their groundbreaking live shows including legendary performances at Glastonbury, Jools Holland and NPR’s Tiny Desk. The band are currently readying their 4th and most ambitious album yet which is expected later this year. Before then IDLES will return to the US for a sold-out tour including multiple nights at The Fonda, Terminal 5 and more.
Tune in to the premier of Idles’ Balley TV Special, “In Defense of the Arts” from House of Vans London on July 20 at houseofvanslondon.com.
