Will Clarke’s Midnight Mass: The Soundtrack of a New Era

Will Clarke's debut album, Midnight Mass, is a journey into new musical territory for the British producer, DJ, podcaster, and Grammy-nominated songwriter. Released through Armada Music, the album isn’t just a collection of dance tracks—it’s an introspective, genre-bending project that reflects Clarke’s personal growth and passion for genuine artistry. Alongside the album, he’s set to embark on The Midnight Mass Experience tour, where fans will witness his transition from traditional DJ sets to a more immersive live performance format.

Clarke’s decision to create an album has been a long time coming. “I’ve always wanted to do an album,” he explained. “But I never felt like I was good enough or ready... it just wasn’t the right time.” The right moment arrived post-pandemic, as Clarke emerged from lockdown with a fresh perspective. “Everyone came out of COVID, and I was lucky to have a lot of shows and releases, but it got to a point where I was asking myself, ‘What’s next?’” he recalled. Rather than chasing fleeting trends or falling into the “rat race” of constant releases, Clarke decided to create something that truly resonated with his own musical vision.

That vision included stepping outside the world of club bangers, focusing instead on a more versatile listening experience that could accompany fans in their daily lives. Clarke describes Midnight Mass as a “listening album” rather than a collection of pure club tracks, pulling inspiration from his early influences like Chemical Brothers, Moby, and Massive Attack. “I wanted to write music that wasn’t just about the club,” he said. “I have influences that aren’t necessarily club records. There’s more to electronic music than just making people dance.” He allowed himself a year to write and experiment, ending up with around 60 tracks before narrowing it down to the final 13.

Working with Armada Music for the album release was a conscious choice. Clarke wanted a supportive team for his debut rather than going independent. “Having a label meant having a bit more of a support network,” he explained. Collaboration was also central to the album’s creative process, with contributions from renowned songwriters and vocalists like Georgia Meek, blythe, and the House Gospel Choir. Clarke shared that being in the studio with other artists was essential to the project’s authenticity. “Relationships are key, and for me, it’s more about that than just writing a record,” he said.

The album’s title, Midnight Mass, reflects Clarke’s view on community and shared experiences. While the name might hint at religious themes, Clarke is clear that the album isn’t about spirituality in a traditional sense. Instead, it draws parallels between the communal aspect of religion and the sense of togetherness on the dancefloor. “It’s about people coming together,” he explained. “It’s what we do every weekend in a nightclub—going to a place with strangers who become friends, where we make connections that matter.” The title came together in a moment of inspiration, as he discussed the idea with his manager, Ryan. “We’d just played Coachella, and as we were driving back, he said, ‘What about Mass?’ And then I thought, ‘Midnight Mass.’ It just felt right.”

The album’s cover art, shot on a London roundabout, captures an unpolished authenticity that aligns perfectly with the spirit of Midnight Mass. “We were on our last shot of the day, and I saw this wall. I thought, let’s just keep it real,” Will Clarke explains. The image, with its moody gray skies and rugged textures, may initially seem gloomy, but there’s a subtle, blissful beauty to it—much like the music within. The cover’s down-to-earth vibe reflects the raw and honest essence of the album itself.

Clarke’s shift in sound with Midnight Mass marks a new chapter, giving fans a more personal glimpse into his artistic world. He’s built his career around club hits, but this album signals a broader musical vision that doesn’t just cater to the dancefloor. In his own words, “It’s not just about bangers. It’s about showing who I am as a human being.” For Clarke, Midnight Mass is as much a reflection of his roots as it is a look ahead, paving the way for a more thoughtful and exciting direction in his music.