Dave unveils « The Boy Who Played The Harp », An Introspective Masterpiece

UK Rap Holds Its Breath: Dave’s Return

The wait is over. British rapper Dave has ended a year-long hiatus by unveiling his highly anticipated third studio album, « The Boy Who Played The Harp », released on October 24, 2025, via Neighbourhood Recordings.

Following his critical and commercial successes Psychodrama (2019) and We’re All Alone in This Together (2021), this new project confirms that Dave is a master storyteller, using his piano and pen to paint lyrical frescoes on society, vulnerability, and fame.

A Balance Between Fragility and Mastery

The album’s title, referencing the biblical figure of David playing the harp for King Saul, is a metaphor for the work’s central themes: the search for balance, discipline, and faith amidst personal and public turmoil.

The album is a concise and powerful 10-track work that strikes with its coherence and depth. Dave, who produced or co-produced the majority of the tracks, crafts a sonic landscape dominated by hypnotic piano melodies, sharp percussion, and refined orchestral arrangements.

Strategic Collaborations and Highlights

The Boy Who Played The Harp shines through its unexpected and relevant collaborations:

• James Blake : Features prominently on the opener « History«  as well as « Selfish« , adding a haunting vocal dimension and delicate production texture that accentuates Dave’s introspection.
• Kano : A summit meeting on « Chapter 16« , where the two UK Rap giants exchange sharp verses on legacy and the industry.
• Tems : The Nigerian singer brings her unique soulful touch to « Raindance« , a track guaranteed to be a commercial hit while remaining true to the artistic vision.
• Jim Legxacy and Nicole Blakk : Their presence offers fresh perspectives, notably on « Fairchild« , a critically important track where Dave directly addresses male ignorance and violence.

The expansive track « My 27th Birthday«  continues his tradition of birthday songs, offering nearly eight minutes of raw stream of consciousness about his life, political views, and perception of celebrity.

« The Boy Who Played The Harp » is more than a rap album; it is a testament to the evolution of an artist who continues to plumb the depths of the human soul with rare intelligence and musicality.

FME Booking: Secure the Presence of a Generation-Defining Artist

The release of « The Boy Who Played The Harp » is followed by the announcement of a European tour in 2026. Dave is renowned for his compelling, raw, and highly musical live performances that captivate audiences worldwide.

If your event requires a headliner that is both commercially successful and critically essential—an artist whose presence guarantees cultural significance and sold-out venues—Dave is the unparalleled choice.

Secure the artist who is redefining UK music. Bring the lyrical genius and stage presence of Dave to your festival or venue.

Contact the FME Booking team today for availability and booking rates.

Stream « The Boy Who Played The Harp » Album