1tbsp Announces New Album 'big soaps'

Maxwell Byrne, the Australian producer known as 1tbsp, is set to launch his first album, titled 'big soaps', early next year on February 5, 2027. This release marks a significant development in Byrne's solo career, which evolved from his previous work under the moniker Golden Vessel.

Byrne initiated 1tbsp in 2021, a project that channels an eclectic mix of global club music styles, including house, reggaeton, synth-pop, and techno. Over time, the project has expanded beyond its initial scope, establishing a firm presence with sold-out shows across Australia, Europe, and North America.

His earlier reputation was built on songwriting and production, notably earning a Grammy nomination for Best Engineered Album, Non-Classical, connected to BAYNK’s 'Adolescence'. Transitioning to 1tbsp allowed Byrne to explore broader musical territories, culminating in 'big soaps', an album that reflects his accumulated artistic influences from recent years.

The album emerges amid a backdrop of economic downturn and cultural tensions, elements that have shaped its themes and sonic textures. The new single 'Carottes' exemplifies these motifs through its introspective narrative framed by everyday life’s messy realities and a sense of personal estrangement.

'Carottes' is distinctive for its multilingual lyrics, combining French vocals with a Korean language bridge. This track was swiftly created during a brief collaboration with French artist miki, who contributed sound elements that evolved into the song’s main synth layers. The partnership was remarkably productive, yielding three tracks in just a couple of hours, two of which are included on the album.

Musically, Byrne drew inspiration from Greek compositions prevalent at the time of recording, particularly the 2007 album 'Remastered 1' by Stereo Nova. The track's lush synth chords create a shimmering atmosphere reminiscent of French pop classics like Air’s 'Sexy Boy' and Air France’s 'Collapsing at Your Doorstep'.

This synthesis of global influences and intimate lyricism underscores 1tbsp’s approach to production, which embraces both emotional depth and dancefloor readiness. The album serves as a culmination of Byrne’s ongoing exploration of identity and cultural expression through electronic music.

Releasing a debut album after establishing a solid touring presence indicates a strategic consolidation of 1tbsp’s artistic identity. The sold-out performances across multiple continents suggest a growing international audience receptive to Byrne’s genre-blending style.

The swift creative process behind 'Carottes' also reflects a modern approach to collaboration, leveraging brief but intense sessions to capture spontaneity. This method may influence the album’s overall sound, fostering immediacy and rawness within its polished production.

'big soaps' promises to enrich Byrne’s catalogue by merging past songwriting expertise with his evolving electronic sensibilities. It signals a new phase in his career, where personal narrative and global musical elements intersect.

As 1tbsp prepares to tour in support of the new album, the cross-continental fanbase built through earlier shows provides a solid foundation for extended live engagements. These performances could further expand the project’s reach and deepen audience engagement.

The album’s release during a period of economic uncertainty and cultural reflection underscores the role of electronic music as both escapism and commentary. Byrne’s work may resonate with listeners navigating similar complexities, offering a soundtrack that balances vulnerability and rhythm.

While 'big soaps' will be Byrne’s first full-length under 1tbsp, its body of work encapsulates several years of artistic development. This positions the album as both a debut and a retrospective, bridging past achievements and future ambitions.