Never/Know

Never/Know is the seventh studio album from British indie rock staples The Kooks, released on May 9, 2025, via Virgin Music Group. With this release, the band returns to their classic sound while exploring fresh territory—blending jangly guitars and catchy hooks with smooth touches of soul, funk, and vintage rock. Helmed by frontman Luke Pritchard as producer, Never/Know feels like a personal statement, chronicling emotional growth and artistic rediscovery through 11 carefully crafted tracks.

The album kicks off with the title track, “Never Know,” a groovy, upbeat anthem that sets the nostalgic yet forward-looking tone. Tracks like “Sunny Baby” and “All Over The World” radiate the melodic warmth that made The Kooks a household name, while “Compass Will Fracture” and “Tough At The Top” offer introspective detours into life’s emotional complexities. A surprising standout is their heartfelt cover of Paul McCartney and Wings’ “Arrow Through Me,” showcasing the band’s love for classic influences. The closer, “Talk About It,” wraps the album in moody reflection and quiet confidence.

To celebrate the album’s release, The Kooks launched a stripped-down acoustic tour across the UK, playing intimate sets in local venues and record stores. These performances underscored their connection to their roots and their fans, offering a raw, emotional take on the new material.

Never/Know is available in digital formats, CD, and special edition vinyl. Critics have praised its honest songwriting and rich arrangements, calling it a standout chapter in The Kooks’ evolving journey.