Volcano (Jungle album)

The recording process involved a return to the duo's roots, with a focus on live instrumentation and a more collaborative approach. They worked with a variety of musicians, including a full horn section and string arrangements, to create a rich, organic sound. The album was recorded in London and Los Angeles, and the duo experimented with different recording techniques, including using vintage equipment and recording in unconventional spaces.

The album features guest appearances from several artists, including British rapper Roots Manuva on "You Ain't No Celebrity", American rapper Bas on "Candle Flame", and Erick the Architect on "Proud of You". These collaborations add a diverse range of vocal styles and perspectives to the album, while still maintaining a cohesive sonic identity.²

Prior to the album's release, Jungle released several singles, including "Candle Flame" featuring Erick the Architect, "Us Against The World", and "I've Been In Love" featuring JNR Williams. The album was released on 11 August 2023, and was accompanied by a series of music videos directed by the duo's frequent collaborator, Charlie Di Placido.⁴ To promote the album, Jungle embarked on a world tour, performing at festivals and arenas across Europe, North America, and Australia.

The album was nominated for the 2023 Mercury Prize, an annual award for the best album from the United Kingdom or Ireland.¹ This marked the first time Jungle had been nominated for the prize, and the nomination helped to raise the album's profile.

Volcano debuted at number 12 on the UK Albums Chart, becoming Jungle's highest-charting album in their home country at the time.⁶ In the United States, the album peaked at number 62 on the Billboard 200, and also charted on several other Billboard charts, including Top Dance/Electronic Albums, where it reached number 2.⁷ The album also performed well in other markets, reaching the top 40 in several European countries.⁸

The album also includes a hidden track, "Goodbye My Love", which appears after a period of silence at the end of the final track "Proud of You". This track is a stripped-back piano ballad that showcases the duo's more vulnerable side.⁹

Caiola Records

An independent record label founded by Jungle, used to release their own music.

AWAL

Artists Without A Label, a distribution and label services company that partnered with Caiola for the album's release.

Mercury Prize

An annual music prize awarded for the best album from the United Kingdom or Ireland.