There’s something undeniably magical about a live collaboration done right. And that’s exactly what unfolded when Minute Taker (Ben McGarvey) joined Bright Light Bright Light on stage in Manchester on BLBL’s “Not Like All The Other Boys” tour last week. Teaming up with Rod Thomas for “I Don’t Know What I’m Gonna Do,” the moment felt both intimate and electrifying, breathing fresh emotion into the “Duets” EP highlight (originally from “Enjoy Youth”). As a bonus, the crowd also got a taste of a Bright Light Bright Light remix of Minute Takers‘ “Surrender To The Night,” adding an extra layer of intrigue to what’s clearly an evolving creative chapter.
It’s a fitting prelude to what’s shaping up to be a defining era for Minute Taker, who is gearing up for the release of his forthcoming album “The Oblivion”, landing 22nd April. The second single, “Losing Self-Control,” dives deep into the emotional push-and-pull of vulnerability and restraint. It’s a track that feels both deeply personal and strikingly universal. Similarly, capturing the tension between self-preservation and the irresistible pull of connection.
“Losing Self-Control” is about living a very regulated life after a past filled with extreme highs and lows,” Ben explains. “Then someone comes along who challenges that even keel you’ve carefully created and you open yourself up to the chaos of feeling everything again. You know it might ultimately leave you in a dark place but you have to take that risk on love.”
Sonically, the track leans into a lush, 80s-inspired synth-pop palette, elevated by cinematic storytelling in its accompanying visual. The music video unfolds like a fragment of a much larger narrative. And almost episodic in tone, where the dynamic between two characters gradually shifts. There’s a palpable sense of tension and release, as both are drawn into something bigger than themselves. Subsequently, surrendering to the intensity of desire and emotional exposure.
Produced and co-written by Curses, the track found its missing piece in McGarvey’s evocative vocal delivery. “I had made this instrumental and was sitting on it for a while… no vocals were really meshing. Then finally, Minute Taker came along with a gorgeous, melancholic vocal drapery and we evolved the song into an absolute heart-string ballad.”
As the countdown to “The Oblivion” continues, Minute Taker is carving out a space where emotional honesty takes centre stage and vulnerability feels quietly defiant. “Losing Self-Control” doesn’t just hint at what’s to come—it signals an era rooted in depth, connection and fearless self-expression. The emotional terrain McGarvey is inviting us into, is one worth stepping into fully. Regardless, how unpredictable the feelings may become.
Album: The Oblivion – out 22nd April
Pre-order the album including Limited Edition Colour Vinyl: www.minutetakershop.com
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