Chameleons release new single ‘Saviours Are A Dangerous Thing’ via Metropolis Records
Chameleons (Photo by Mick Peek)
Post-punk group Chameleons have released a new single, “Saviours Are A Dangerous Thing” via Metropolis Records. The track is the final composition recorded for the band’s forthcoming full-length album “Arctic Moon”, scheduled for release on September 12, 2025. The album follows their last full-length studio effort “Why Call It Anything?” released in 2001.
The track is available to stream and is accompanied by a video that interlaces performance footage with imagery of war, destruction, and propaganda. According to vocalist and bassist Mark Burgess, the song delivers a stark commentary on contemporary politics. “I see too many echoes of the 1930s in what’s going on in the world,” he states. “The lyrics came to me quite quickly. They reflect how senior officials line up to kiss the rings of clowns who regard themselves as self-proclaimed kings rather than elected statesmen.”
Burgess also notes that guitarist Stephen Rice originated the concept. “It was the last song to be completed for the album,” he adds. “I’m particularly pleased with the way it turned out, because it was Stephen who initially brought the rough idea to the table and we all then collaborated on it.”
Chameleons are currently on tour in Spain and Portugal through mid-June, followed by a performance at Forever Now festival in Milton Keynes on June 22. They will then tour the U.S., including co-headlining dates with The Psychedelic Furs beginning June 26. A North American headlining tour follows in September, with European and UK dates scheduled through November.
About Chameleons
Chameleons formed in Middleton, Greater Manchester, in 1981. The original lineup included Mark Burgess (vocals, bass), Reg Smithies (guitar), Dave Fielding (guitar), and John Lever (drums). Known for their melodic guitar-driven sound, they emerged from the UK post-punk scene with their debut album “Script of the Bridge” in 1983. This was followed by “What Does Anything Mean? Basically!” in 1984 and “Strange Times” in 1986.
After disbanding in 1987, the band reformed in 2000 and released “Why Call It Anything?” in 2001. They have since undergone various lineup changes. As of 2025, the band consists of Mark Burgess (vocals, bass), Reg Smithies (guitar), Stephen Rice (guitar), Danny Ashberry (keyboards), and Todd Demma (drums).
In 2024, the group released two EPs: “Where Are You?”, featuring new material, and “Tomorrow Remember Yesterday”, consisting of re-recorded archive songs. These marked the beginning of a new creative phase leading up to “Arctic Moon”.
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