The Avalanches release new single Blue Shadows with Karen O

Australian electronic music group The Avalanches have released a new collaborative single, "Blue Shadows," featuring vocalist Karen O of the Yeah Yeah Yeahs. The song was released on July 23, 2026, and marks the second collaboration between the artists, following Karen O's contribution to the 2020 track "Dial D for Devotion."

The single is built around a sample from the early-80s Italo act Blue Gas and features a mellow, rhythmic sound described by the group as having an almost reggae-like groove with shimmering synths. Karen O's vocal performance on the track is more extensive than on their previous collaboration, with lyrics that pose the question, "Does anybody know how to mend a broken heart?"

In a statement, The Avalanches explained that the song originated from a demo by member Andy Szekeres that was rediscovered in an old folder. Group member Robbie Chater shared the instrumental piece with Karen O, though he initially did not expect her to add vocals. Chater said her contribution amazed him and made the song feel fully formed, describing it as achingly forlorn.

Karen O said she accepted the invitation immediately upon hearing the track, praising The Avalanches' previous...