Bastille has just released a new collection of songs titled “&” (Ampersand), Part Four. This EP wraps up a series that Dan Smith started in 2024. The project tells stories about lives that are connected, much like the ampersand symbol itself.
The EP features tracks like “Bored and Overboard (Pandora’s Box),” which blends personal confessions with myth. There’s also “Bonnie & Clyde,” a modern take on outlaw romance, “Bathsheba & Him,” a biblical retelling, and the reflective “My Head & The Glass.” Fans will also enjoy bonus live recordings from ARTE’s intimate Turner Gallery sessions.
Dan Smith shared that even though the album focuses on other people, it feels very personal to him. He sees it as a snapshot of a specific time in his life. The project allowed him to explore his love for writing while also embracing collaboration.
Last year, as part of the “&” project, Bastille released “Eve & Paradise Lost.” This song dives into the unfairness in the love story of Eve and Adam. The music video features British actress Simone Ashley and is directed by BAFTA winner Dominic Savage.
Smith began working on “&” in 2020, wanting to create a gentler project. The writing process took him back to before Bastille’s debut album, Bad Blood, where he wrote all the songs alone. Alongside the music, Smith co-hosts a podcast called Muses: An ‘Ampersand’ Podcast, exploring the historical figures behind the songs.
Check out Bastille’s “&” (Ampersand), Part Four now!
