Jozef Van Wissem and Jim Jarmusch unveil new recording of “Only Lovers Left Alive”

Dutch lute player Jozef Van Wissem and filmmaker-musician Jim Jarmusch have revisited their collaborative piece "Only Lovers Left Alive," originally composed in 2012 and released as a song in 2013. This updated rendition is set to feature on their forthcoming companion albums, "Bocca di Lupo" and "Mouth of the Wolf," both slated for release on November 6, 2026, through Sacred Bones Records.

The genesis of "Only Lovers Left Alive" traces back to Van Wissem's solo tours in Ghent, Belgium, where the initial melody took shape in a modest, improvised studio space. The original instrumental composition showcased Van Wissem's signature lute performance, characterized by a minimalist and haunting quality. For the new recording, Van Wissem and Jarmusch expanded the sonic palette, introducing a richer, more textured soundscape that enhances the interplay between lute and acoustic guitar.

This renewed collaboration follows their previous single "Never Like You Said," which notably incorporated vocals from Australian singer-songwriter Courtney Barnett, marking a departure from their typically instrumental focus. In contrast, the reworked "Only Lovers Left Alive" retains its instrumental essence but incorporates Jarmusch's acoustic guitar as a complementary counterpoint, adding depth and a timeless resonance to the piece.

The recording sessions took place in Bologna, Italy, where Van Wissem and Jarmusch also created two expansive electric drone compositions. These sessions inspired the album title "Mouth of the Wolf," named after the street where their studio was located. This environment proved fertile for experimentation, culminating in a collection of tracks that blend drone, folk, and classical influences.

"Bocca di Lupo" and "Mouth of the Wolf" are conceived as companion albums, reflecting the duo's collaborative evolution and the melding of their distinct artistic perspectives. The albums continue to explore themes of atmospheric minimalism and cinematic soundscapes, underscoring Van Wissem's lute expertise alongside Jarmusch's musical sensibilities.

The partnership between Van Wissem and Jarmusch is notable for its fusion of music and filmic atmosphere, as Jarmusch is renowned primarily as an independent filmmaker. Their creative synergy has produced soundtracks and compositions that resonate with both music aficionados and cinephiles alike, enhancing narratives through evocative instrumental music.

Details about the full tracklist and additional collaborators remain sparse ahead of the November release. However, the renewed focus on "Only Lovers Left Alive" signals a commitment to revisiting and expanding upon their earlier work, offering listeners a fresh interpretation that honors the original's mood while exploring new musical dimensions.

The release of these albums continues Sacred Bones Records' tradition of supporting avant-garde and boundary-pushing artists. Fans of experimental instrumental music and those familiar with Van Wissem and Jarmusch's previous efforts can anticipate a richly textured auditory experience that bridges past and present creative impulses.

As the albums approach release, they represent a significant moment in the ongoing collaboration between these two artists, further solidifying their place within the contemporary experimental music landscape. The evolution of "Only Lovers Left Alive" encapsulates their shared dedication to crafting immersive, genre-defying soundscapes that transcend conventional boundaries.