The Remote Part

Idlewild’s third studio album, “The Remote Part,” was released on 15 July 2002 by Parlophone. The band, increasingly influenced by guitarist Rod Jones, explored alternative rock and indie rock genres, departing from the punk rock elements of their previous work. Recorded at various studios including Rockfield Studios, RAK Studios, and Sawmills Studios, the album underwent extensive production, reflecting the band’s dedication to refining their sound.

The album’s lead single, “You Held the World in Your Arms,” preceded two other singles, “American English” and “Live in a Hiding Place.” Amidst tours and lineup changes, the album garnered universal acclaim, peaking at number two in Scotland and number three in the UK. Notably, all tracks made appearances on the UK Singles Charts, with “You Held the World in Your Arms” reaching number four in Scotland and number nine in the UK.

The writing process was marked by a collective effort among band members, with guitarist Rod Jones shaping the musical direction. Influences from Nirvana, Joni Mitchell, and Red House Painters are evident, while songs like “American English” delve into themes of poetry and distortion of meaning. The album concludes with “In Remote Part/Scottish Fiction,” featuring a spoken-word narrative by poet laureate Edwin Morgan, reflecting on the band’s Scottish identity and sense of belonging.