The Libertines Return with New Album and Cultural Hub in Margate
On a cool early spring Tuesday afternoon, all is quiet on the Eastern Esplanade in Margate. Past Superior Slots and Bugsy’s Tenpin Bowling, an imposing terrace of five-storey townhouses stands in varying states of repair. No. 31, painted top-to-bottom in black with dull gold metalwork, is the destination – The Albion Rooms, owned by Carl Barât of The Libertines.
The band’s fourth studio album, “All Quiet On The Eastern Esplanade,” marks their return after nine years. The album was recorded at their studio in The Albion Rooms, a guest house complete with indoor and outdoor bars and a state-of-the-art studio. Barât describes the building as their new spiritual home, a place where they could create art away from the chaos of their past.
The album reflects on their turbulent journey, with songs like “Be Young” voicing environmental concerns and “Merry Old England” questioning the country migrants arrive in. The band’s chemistry, unique and enduring, was reignited during a songwriting trip to Jamaica in 2022, leading to the creation of the album.
The Albion Rooms serves as a cast-iron HQ for The Libertines, offering them stability and a sense of togetherness they had been missing. Barât reflects on their past albums, from the bright lights and ambition of “Up The Bracket” to the chaos and heartbreak of their self-titled second album.
With the release of “All Quiet On The Eastern Esplanade,” The Libertines have found a sense of calm and friendship that has eluded them in the past. Their new venture in Margate, with its dark-hued building and rich history, symbolizes a new chapter for the band.
As they look towards the future, The Libertines hope to crack America, despite Doherty’s ban from the country. With their new album and cultural hub in Margate, the likely lads from The Libertines are back and ready to conquer new horizons.