: Co-produced by Paul "Strangeboy" Stacey, the song was the first piece of music Noel wrote and finished for the new record. Visuals and Hidden Details
Recorded at Noel's own studio in London, "Pretty Boy" marks a notable shift toward a restless, post-punk energy.
Back to the Skies: Noel Gallagher Drops "Pretty Boy" Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds have officially returned, ending a long wait with the release of their first new single since 2020: . Released on October 31, 2022, the track serves as the lead preview for the band’s fourth studio album, Council Skies , which arrived in June 2023. A New Sonic Chapter Noel_Gallaghers_High_Flying_Birds-Pretty_Boy-SI...
The single quickly gained traction, becoming and spending 15 weeks on the Radio X playlist. While some critics described the lyrics as "broad and hollow" or "cryptic," others praised the song’s dark chord progressions and its departure from standard Britpop tropes.
The official video for "Pretty Boy" takes a unique creative direction, focusing on a crew of preparing for a performance. Noel himself even makes a cameo in the video—though you'll have to look closely to spot him. Critical and Fan Reception : Co-produced by Paul "Strangeboy" Stacey, the song
Fans and reviewers alike noted that while the song has a "safe consistency" for those who love Noel's work, it also signals a continuation of the psychedelic shifts first heard on 2017's Who Built The Moon? .
For those looking for a different flavor, a notable was also released, slowing the track down and emphasizing its atmospheric roots. Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds Return With 'Pretty Boy' Released on October 31, 2022, the track serves
: The track moves away from arena-sized bombast in favor of a driving drum machine beat and airy, "interstellar" jangle.