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Photo: Kelsi Luck

Wake up, babe! Pale Waves is starting a new era! Manchester's Pale Waves are back and we're already falling head over heels in love in their latest single, "Perfume." The infectious new track is a confessional, open-hearted, sapphic anthem that leans into the classic sonics of iconic 1980s rock groups like The Cure and The Cranberries, creating an experience that will have anyone who listens smiling from ear to ear and thinking about their own special someone.

"Perfume" opens with a joyous collection of synths, vocal sample harmonies, courtesy of lead singer and guitarist Heather Baron-Gracie, and euphoric, jangly guitar riffs. Baron-Gracie's lyrics capture the excitement and euphoria of early queer relationships, with her reflecting on the wise words of her mother to go after and never let go of what she wants.

She takes the plunge, admitting to her love interest, "When I saw you I knew it was over / I just laid down and surrendered," and asking if they "can make this last forever." In the earworm hook, vivid and fresh production fills the air as she declares to her lover and the world, "I wanna make, I wanna make you my girl... I wanna make you my world," ultimately pledging her heart and soul. Honestly, what could be more romantic?

The new single arrives during the first few dates of the quartet's North American summer tour as direct support for pop rock band PVRIS and also arrives alongside the announcement of their upcoming fourth studio album, Smitten, out September 20. The highly anticipated LP finds Baron-Gracie in a headspace where she can finally breathe and reflect, allowing the buzzy darlings to blend their timeless indie rock with a new wave of romantic nostalgia in a way that is undeniably Pale Waves.

"'Perfume' is the perfect introduction into the new world we’ve created,” shares lead singer Heather. “It's queer, feminine and romantic and it encapsulates the essence of Smitten.”

Watch the "Perfume" video below: