Bits is the new album from Gareth Thomas, founding member of Goodshirt and Fazerdaze. It’s an eclectic record about heartbreak, grief and getting older, written with humour, tenderness and a rediscovered creative spark.

As we grow older, the wonders of youthful enthusiasm can easily evaporate, as curiosity is replaced with sensibility. Bits gathers Gareth’s responses to these emotional tectonic shifts - how he navigated a challenging period of grief, heartbreak and huge life changes.

Surprisingly, the result is a colourful, eclectic collection of tracks. There are many shades to this album: sometimes melancholic, but always uplifting.

‘Cyber Star’ pokes fun at selfie culture, ‘Love Resume’ compares dating to a job application, and ‘My Dog’ uses the family pet to explore anxiety. The album also features Gareth’s interpretation of the poem ‘Wavesong’ by New Zealand’s Sam Hunt.

Gareth created the album’s 8-bit-inspired rainbow artwork himself, drawing on his love of vintage electronica and the colourful DIY creativity of his early days with Goodshirt.

“Writing, producing and performing this album has been cathartic,” he says, “and a way to keep my inner child alive.”

Pressed on orange coloured vinyl.