Nonetheless is the fifteenth studio album by the English synth-pop duo Pet Shop Boys, released on April 26, 2024. This zeotrope variant was released through Blood Records. Produced by James Ford, the album marks their return to Parlophone since 2012's "Elysium" and features ten tracks that blend nostalgic elements with contemporary sounds.

The album was conceived during the COVID-19 lockdowns, with Neil Tennant and Chris Lowe collaborating remotely. This period allowed them to write without deadlines, resulting in a collection that reflects their experiences and emotions during isolation. The title "Nonetheless" signifies their perseverance in creating music despite challenging circumstances.

Musically, "Nonetheless" showcases a fusion of lo-fi pop, UK garage, and drum-and-bass influences, underpinned by intimate storytelling and ethereal vocals. The production is both minimalist and intricate, with shimmering synths, delicate melodies, and driving beats that evoke a sense of bittersweet reflection. The album's themes explore love, liberation, and cultural nostalgia, with tracks like "Dancing Star" paying homage to Russian ballet dancer Rudolf Nureyev, and "A New Bohemia" reflecting on the early queer scene in London.

Critics have praised "Nonetheless" for its rich instrumentation and the duo's ability to blend synths and strings seamlessly. The Financial Times highlighted their live performances of tracks from the album, noting the "disco anthem 'Loneliness'" as a standout.

An expanded edition of the album was released on November 22, 2024, featuring bonus tracks and demo versions of all the album tracks, offering fans deeper insight into the creative process behind "Nonetheless."

Overall, "Nonetheless" exemplifies Pet Shop Boys' talent for channeling personal experiences into universally relatable music while maintaining a distinctively innovative sound, solidifying their role as a defining voice in contemporary pop music.

Tracklist:

Side A:
A1. Loneliness
A2. Feel
A3. Why Am I Dancing?
A4. New London Boy
A5. Dancing Star

Side B:
B1. A New Bohemia
B2. The Schlager Hit Parade
B3. The Secret of Happiness
B4. Bullet For Narcissus
B5. Love Is The Law