NEW YORK — When the iconic band Tears for Fears took to the stage at Firstbank Amphitheater in Franklin, Tennessee, on July 11, 2023, there was a mixture of excitement and apprehension. Lead singer and guitarist Roland Orzabal confessed that he felt as if he were “a deer caught in the headlines” when they entered, while his musical counterpart Curt Smith remarked, “We put on a brave face.” This unease stemmed from the fact that the evening’s performance would be recorded and filmed for their upcoming concert documentary, “Tears For Fears Live (A Tipping Point Film),” which is set to debut in over 1,100 theaters around the globe on October 24 and 26.
Smith later reflected on the night, noting, “We typically appear much more relaxed and have a lot more fun. We were keenly aware of being filmed, which made us a bit more tense. Yet that pressure perhaps motivated us to deliver one of our finest performances.” Even amidst the jitters, the audience could see the band’s humor shining through, as Smith joked on stage, remarking, “This young man to my right is named Roland. I would pronounce his last name if I could.”
The concert film showcases a mix of the duo’s classic hits along with tracks from their 2022 album “The Tipping Point.” Fans can expect to hear beloved songs like “Everybody Wants to Rule the World,” “Shout,” and “Head Over Heels,” alongside their newer material. “After reviewing many recordings, it was evident that our nerves actually translated into a better performance that night,” Smith added.
Tears for Fears have returned to the forefront with this film and the release of their live album, “Songs For a Nervous Planet,” scheduled for October 25. This new album will feature four previously unreleased tracks, serving as an extension of their live concert experience. Additionally, the band is gearing up for a three-night event at the Fontainebleau Las Vegas set for October 30 and November 1 and 2.
Orzabal humorously commented on their recent creative rejuvenation, describing it as awakening after a long period of dormancy, likening it to the gestation of an elephant. The duo has switched management; the previous manager had encouraged them to chase hits and modernize their sound. “It’s as if a weight has been lifted off our shoulders,” Orzabal quipped.
Included among the new tracks are Orzabal’s romantic tune, “The Girl That I Call Home,” dedicated to his wife, and Smith’s ethereal piece titled “Astronaut,” which did not make it onto “The Tipping Point.” Their latest album was deeply influenced by themes of grief and mental struggle, touching on topics such as dementia in the title track and societal issues in “Rivers of Mercy.” The new songs carry a more uplifting tone compared to the somber nature of their recent work. “These latest four tracks reflect our current mindset. While ‘The Tipping Point’ was driven by pain, this new music represents a different chapter,” Smith elaborated.
The duo initially planned to create a live album after incorporating songs from “The Tipping Point” into their setlist. They realized the rhythmic similarities between the title track and their hit “Everybody Wants to Rule the World,” which facilitated a seamless integration of new and old material. “It was fantastic to juxtapose the new songs with the classics; they not only sounded coherent but matched them in terms of quality,” Orzabal remarked.
Both projects feature a talented backing band including guitarist Charlton Pettus, drummer Jamie Wollam, keyboardist Doug Petty, and singer Lauren Evans. To hone their performance ahead of the tour, the duo played lesser-known venues such as wineries, casinos, and festivals. “We crafted a solid setlist and running order, and it was a matter of fitting in the ‘Tipping Point’ tracks before our final tour preparations,” said Orzabal.
As pioneers of the early 1980s electronic sound, Tears for Fears made an indelible mark with hits like “Mad World” and “Pale Shelter.” Next year will commemorate the 40th anniversary of their chart-topping album “Songs From the Big Chair,” which features the timeless classic “Everybody Wants to Rule the World.” Smith commented on the enduring appeal of their music, saying, “There’s a simplicity that draws me in. It’s open and inviting, even though the lyrics can be quite dark; somehow, it still feels bright and uplifting.”