An unexpected second chapter in the Haircut One Hundred story gathered pace last year when their irresistible first single in forever, ‘The Unloving Plum’, became Radio 2’s Record of the Week. It was a track which showed the magic that inspired their classic ‘80s hits - ‘Favourite Shirts (Boy Meets Girl)’, ‘Love Plus One’, ‘Fantastic Day’ and ‘Nobody’s Fool’.
Now that comeback steps up a gear as they announce that their new album ‘Boxing The Compass’ will be released on March 20th 2026. They launch the album alongside the new single ‘Dynamite’, which was premiered this morning by Scott Mills on Radio 2, and also reveal details of their first full UK headline tour since 2023.
‘Boxing The Compass’ will be just the second album from the classic line-up since 1982’s hit-packed, Platinum-certified #2 record ‘Pelican West’ (another album minus Nick Heywood, ‘Paint and Paint’, followed in 1984). Nick Heyward (vocals/guitar), Graham Jones (guitar) and Les Nemes (bass) had reconvened to discuss issues around the band, but that business meeting felt more like a reunion of old friends. Things soon snowballed from an unforgettable comeback gig at the O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire to a full UK headline tour, with drummer Blair Cunningham also subsequently jumping back onboard.
Subsequent writing and recording sessions with Sean Read (Dexys) at Famous Times studio in East London showed that they still shared that special something. Their flair for a classic, melody rich pop song was firmly intact alongside with a host of fresh influences that they had never had the chance to explore together. And despite the passing of four decades, their boyish charm is still luminous - surely because each member is grateful for having a second chance with their old friends.
Nick Heyward says, “‘Boxing the Compass’ is the traditional way of finding out where you are on land or sea using the compass rose. We’re arriving back at the port we left 43 years ago with a log of songs from our personal travels. Wherever I’ve been in the world, I’ve always been Nick Heyward of Haircut 100 and we’re all ready to set sail again for more adventures on the high seas."
‘Dynamite’ is the sound of a band who are relishing being back, their famous instant pop addictiveness now flavoured by classic disco guitar hooks, rousing brass and jazzy flourishes. Its feel good fervour is amplified by Nick’s bright, charismatic vocals with a lyric that explains itself. The song made a big impression when it was debuted throughout the band’s recent North American tour.
Nick adds, “‘Dynamite’ is about the day and the night and meeting via satellite. Whether it’s your soul mate, long lost family members, future friends, or your people. It’s about communication and how explosive it can be. It really is dynamite."
