As previously reported Hum announced rough plans to reissue their final album Downward Is Heavenward on vinyl a few months ago. Matt Talbot has now revealed more details on the release which will which be released/shipped out this week.
The double gatefold vinyl album was cut from the original analog masters and pressed on 180 gm vinyl. It includes different artwork (mostly similar to the original, but minus the UPC and yellow graphics have been replaced with white), but the big news is the bonus material: three b-sides "Puppets," "Aphids," and "Boy With A Stick." These songs have been fan favorites and will now finally be available! Also: each copy of the record comes with a card signed by Talbot which explains the mastering process for each song. Additionally, there is an option to purchase a limited edition 12" x 12" poster designed by Jay Ryan -- likely the design Ryan posted on Instagram a couple of days ago. Vinyl record is 35 dollars; record with poster is 50 dollars.
Pre-orders officially open this Wednesday, December 19th, however Talbot also stated on Facebook that he "might" take a few pre-orders tomorrow (December 18th) in the evening. The pre-order link is not yet available but will be posted over at Earth Analog Records shortly. Head there now to check out other items.
UPDATE (12/20/18): The release has been delayed until Friday, but Talbot says that there won't be any issues obtaining a copy:
"I will start selling at Earth Analog Records tomorrow (friday) mid-morning cst. I'll try and post more details tonight. (Kinda fried right now from work and have a long day ahead of me.) Don't worry. Everyone who wants one will eventually get one. And if I run out, I'll get in touch with Sony and license the right to press another pile."
UPDATE (12/23/18): Pre-order links are active, but in "coming soon" status.
As for new Hum material, Talbot confirms he's still finishing up work on some new songs which will be out next year. He's also said that he may have enough for TWO albums!
Published December 17th, 2018
