Ben Lee Releases Catch My Disease 2025 With Phantom Planet

Awake Anniversary Tour Ignites Nostalgia

Ben Lee has just dropped a revitalized version of his unlikely 2005 anthem “Catch My Disease” – now dubbed “Catch My Disease 2025”. The reworked track is part of the star’s much-anticipated Awake is the New Sleep 20th Anniversary Tour. In a heartfelt social media post, Lee recounted his long-standing history with the alternative rock band Phantom Planet, reminding fans of a time when he literally dashed across the debut album cover of their record “The Guest”. Now, with the help of his long-time pals from Phantom Planet, Lee has transformed the original into something wonderfully fresh while still paying homage to its raucous origins.

From Backstage Tales To New Beats

Revisiting his early days, Ben Lee shared that the original “Catch My Disease” was written backstage in Pomona during a 2003 tour when he was opening for Phantom Planet. The memory of an epic, rowdy tour – filled with live energy, countless memories, and even tales of chasing after adoring fans – still resonates with him. When collaborating recently with Alex, the lead singer of Phantom Planet, and Ninajirachi (who featured on her single “All I Am”), Lee’s creative spark was instantly ignited. “Yes, as long as we can go shoe-gaze with it,” Alex had quipped, setting the tone for a record that perfectly balances retro flair with a modern edge.

A Nod To The Past, A Shout To The Future

Lee’s rework isn’t just a simple remix. He revamped some of the lyrics, adding new twists and even including an unexpected mention of Ulladulla – a playful Easter egg aimed at dedicate fans following trends online and referencing a notorious Marlin show incident. In a further salute to his roots, Lee also shouted out some of his favorite Australian talents, Mallrat and Miss Kanina, emphasizing his commitment to championing homegrown talent despite the current industry challenges. This remix isn’t just a musical update; it’s a bridge connecting memories, milestones, and modern influences.

United By Music And Memories

For those who have followed Ben Lee’s journey – from his early days as a passionate musician to becoming a seasoned artist – this release is especially significant. His ties with Phantom Planet run deep. Besides the shared tour memories, the collaboration comes with added musical flavor as several musician pals contributed backing vocals. Among them are Lara Meyerratken, Sadie Dupuis, Alex Lahey, Khatumu, and Tim Blunt from FVNERAL. Their involvement enriches the track with layers of vocal harmonies that bring the reworked song to life in ways that the original could only hint at.

Celebrating 20 Years Of Musical Evolution

The Awake is the New Sleep tour itself is a celebration of two decades of musical evolution. Lee’s announcement dovetails with the release of his new track, inviting fans to reminisce while looking forward to the future. Having previously teased tour details on social media – including posts with ticket information and playful behind-the-scenes snapshots – Lee’s current project feels like the natural next act in his storied career. A recent Instagram post by Lee hinted, “Let’s do it…whatever it is,” echoing the spontaneity and energy that have always defined his performances.

A Fusion Of Past And Present

Drawing from his extensive experience in the industry, Ben Lee’s new release is layered with both nostalgia and innovation. His decision to tweak the lyrics and incorporate tongue-in-cheek references not only sparks intrigue but also highlights how artists can reinvent and celebrate their past while staying relevant in today’s ever-changing musical landscape. The meticulous craft behind “Catch My Disease 2025” is further underlined by the technical expertise of producer Justin Stanley, who mixed and mastered the track, and the striking art created by RocktheMazbah. Each element of the release has been carefully curated to resonate with longtime fans and attract new listeners.

Looking Ahead With A Smile

As the tour kicks off and the new track makes waves on streaming platforms, Ben Lee invites his audience to not only enjoy the revamped melody but also to join him on an unforgettable live experience. The excitement is palpable and serves as a reminder of music’s ability to reconnect us with our past while lighting the way to innovative new horizons. The collaboration with Phantom Planet, the shoutouts to local Australian artists, and the blend of old-school grit with modern sonic textures all coalesce to form a release that is as much a tribute as it is a fresh take on a beloved tune.

With ticket details available via the link in his bio, fans eager to witness the tour in action are encouraged to secure their spots soon. Ben Lee’s journey, punctuated by bold reimaginings and heartfelt collaborations, continues to evolve, promising new memories rooted in an unforgettable musical legacy.

Reporter

Ratika Pai

 

Ratika holds a master's degree in commerce and a post-graduate diploma in communication and journalism from Mumbai University. She has 6 years of experience writing in various fields, such as finance, education, and lifestyle.

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