Barry Can’t Swim has returned with a new single, "Dance Dance Dance", a French touch-inspired track that, according to the artist’s press release, marks a shift away from the club-adjacent sound of his previous single, "Return to Bhibo". The artist, whose real name is Joshua Spence Mainnie, has described his evolving sound through a blend of electronic influences and a classical background that stretches back to his childhood.
From classical training to electronic acclaim
Born and trained in Edinburgh, where he began classical piano lessons at the age of nine and later played in jazz bars as a teenager, Barry Can’t Swim has charted a path from formal musical education to contemporary electronic songwriting. The artist relocated to London as an adult and launched a solo career that has quickly attracted national attention.
His debut album, When Will We Land?, released on 20 October 2023, was shortlisted for the prestigious Mercury Prize. Since then he has released a second album, Loner, and signed with Atlantic Records. "Dance Dance Dance" is his second release on the major label.
Live profile and industry recognition
The past year has seen an increase in the artist’s live profile. He has been nominated for Best Dance Act at the Brit Awards, headlined a sold-out show at All Points East in London and performed a live set at Electric Picnic. Music media have taken note: Hot Press included him on its "Hot for 2024" list, while comparisons in the press have ranged from Moby to Fred Again.. Fans, the publication noted, have shown high levels of enthusiasm at shows.
- Artist name: Barry Can’t Swim (Joshua Spence Mainnie)
- Notable releases: When Will We Land? (20 October 2023), Loner, and new single "Dance Dance Dance"
- Labels and accolades: Signed to Atlantic Records; Mercury Prize-shortlisted; Brit Awards nominee
"Moving away from the club-adjacent sound of previous single 'Return to Bhibo'" — press release describing the new track
What this means for listeners in Barry
For readers in Barry, the new single is a reminder of the breadth of the British electronic music scene and its continuing crossover into mainstream consciousness. While Barry Can’t Swim is not from Wales, his trajectory — from classical training to electronic experimentation, through independent releases to major-label backing and national award recognition — is representative of the pathways open to musicians across the UK, including here in Wales.
Local music fans and musicians may find particular interest in the artist’s blending of classical technique with contemporary electronic production. His Mercury Prize shortlisting for When Will We Land? signals industry attention that often brings wider radio play, festival bookings and opportunities for supporting acts — dynamics that can shape touring itineraries and festival line-ups across the UK in the months ahead.
Quick reference
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Latest single | Dance Dance Dance (French touch-inspired) |
| Debut album | When Will We Land? — released 20 October 2023 (Mercury Prize-shortlisted) |
| Label | Atlantic Records (second release with label) |
| Live highlights | All Points East (sold-out headline show), Electric Picnic set |
As the British festival season and autumn tour announcements approach, Barry residents who follow new electronic music would do well to note the progress of Barry Can’t Swim. Whether you’re a musician, a local promoter or simply someone who enjoys discovering new sounds, the single is part of a continuing story about how contemporary artists shape and are shaped by national platforms. Listen to "Dance Dance Dance" and judge for yourselves where the track sits between the artist’s earlier club-leaning material and his more recent explorations.
For local music-makers and listeners alike, the success of acts such as Barry Can’t Swim serves as a reminder that formal training, varied live experience and bold stylistic shifts can combine to reach a wide audience — and that such stories from across the UK remain relevant here in Barry.
