The IDLES’ last record, Brutalism, was a tribute to singer Joe Talbot’s mother. Joe is clearly not a man to do things by halves though: his mother's photograph on the album cover and extensive, moving lyrical references to her in the songs didn't quite do the whole job for him, so he has had some of her ashes printed up in a short vinyl run of their album. He posted this on the band's Facebook:
Our music has saved us in many ways.
My old dear didn't have the luxury of finding something that could save her; I've had her ashes pressed into 100 vinyl to symbolise just how important she was to this album, to this band and of course to me and my drive to exist in the most loving and honest me.
We strive to make music that invigorates people to express themselves freely without prejudice or mockery. Now you can see that we've put everything into our art so that maybe you can too. Don't go gentle.
All is love.
Available to purchase from our Big Cartel from 30 October 2017.