Carl Barat Says New Libertines Songs Are 'Surprisingly Upbeat'

The Libertines are one of rock's most mysterious acts. Off-stage, they are not quite as dysfunctional as Oasis, but they have certainly given the Gallagher brothers a run for their money. It has been more than 10 years since the world got an album from the U.K. group, but that is scheduled to change in 2015. Carl Barat said the new songs are "surprisingly upbeat."

But nobody can be totally certain about a new record when it comes to these guys.

"You can't make plans with The Libertines because they usually go wrong," Carl Barat told Loaded, via NME. "I'm seeing Pete [Doherty] in Thailand again soon, but everything in the band has to be taken step by step. The new album has to be the right record, and we don't want to rush it."

Barat said the songs are "surprisingly upbeat" and give off a positive vibe.

"The Libertines have always been about anthems to doomed youth," he said. "I'm not entirely sure how happy the new songs will be lyrically, but the message is strong in the new songs. It's doomed youth overcoming hardships with optimism."

The group, fronted by Doherty, overcame years of discord -- and personal struggles -- to sign with Virgin EMI in 2014. Doherty then left rehab to write new tunes with Carl Barat and the rest of the gang.

The group recently announced a T in the Park appearance and appear to be a fully functional rock band once again.

"The Libertines are a truly iconic British band, revered as cult heroes by a generation of music fans and adored by the Scottish crowd," festival director Geoff Ellis said, via NME.

You can check out how to get tickets here and relive the glory days with the music video below:

Tags

The Libertines, Pete Doherty