Modern Nature are set to unveil their upcoming album The Heat Warps, due out via Bella Union on August 29.

Speaking about the track “Pharaoh,” Jack Cooper explains: “It explores the figures we’re taught to admire and obey, while also honoring those who push us to question and see things from new angles. The song is as much a nod to jazz legend Pharoah Sanders as it is a commentary on the authority figures—kings and politicians—we’re often expected to trust. It’s hard to stay engaged with the world without feeling overwhelmed. With ‘Pharaoh,’ I wanted to advocate for finding your own path and philosophy—something that not only guides you but maybe even has a positive impact on those around you.”

The album also bears the influence of Andrew Weatherall. Before his passing, Weatherall had featured Modern Nature on his NTS radio show, a moment that thrilled Cooper. Inspired by this, he set out to create an album that Weatherall might have shared with close friends in the late hours. Cooper adds, “‘Pharaoh’ captures the spirit of his saying, ‘Fail we may, sail we must.’”

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