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War Child has announced the return of its charity compilation with a collection of new songs from major names and rising acts, and it arrives with the first single in a four-year hiatus from Arctic Monkeys.
Help(2) arrives with big names and a clear release date
The sequel to War Child’s 1995 benefit album is titled Help(2). It is available for pre-order now and will be released on March 6, 2026. The project pulls together established artists and fresh voices to raise funds and attention for the charity’s humanitarian work.
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Arctic Monkeys contribute a new song after four years
Arctic Monkeys supplied the album with their new track, billed as the band’s first fresh release in four years. The song, titled “Opening Night”, anchors the record and marks a notable return for the Sheffield group.
Foals’ single channels World War I poets and wartime imagery
Foals’ frontman Yannis Philippakis previewed the band’s contribution on social media. The song, called “When the War is Finally Done”, was written several years ago and revisited for this compilation.
Poetic influences and narrative voice
Philippakis says the piece draws heavily on the trench poetry tradition. He referenced figures such as Wilfred Owen and Rupert Brooke as part of the creative spark. Other names tied to that era include Siegfried Sassoon, Robert Graves, and Isaac Rosenberg. Visual artists like John Singer Sargent also informed the song’s mood.
The track is framed as a reflection from beyond the grave. It imagines a young soldier watching the world return to routine after bombardment, and asking what was paid in human cost. The band delayed releasing the song until it felt right to place it on the War Child record.
Full tracklist highlights and standout collaborations
The compilation features a mix of solo contributions and collaborative pairings. Below are some of the tracks announced for the album.
- Arctic Monkeys — “Opening Night”
- Black Country, New Road — “Strangers”
- The Last Dinner Party — “Let’s do it again!”
- Beth Gibbons — “Sunday Morning”
- Depeche Mode — “Universal Soldier”
Notable team-ups on Help(2)
- Damon Albarn, Grian Chatten & Kae Tempest — “Flags”
- Arooj Aftab & Beck — “Lilac Wine”
- English Teacher & Graham Coxon — “Parasite”
Producer James Ford steers the album’s sound
Producer James Ford is overseeing the project. Ford is known for his work with Florence + The Machine and Fontaines D.C., and he has a long history with Arctic Monkeys. His production role ties the various contributors into a cohesive charitable release.
Help(2) positions itself as a timely follow-up to War Child’s first charity album. The record pairs modern songwriting with historical and humanitarian themes, and it aims to draw attention to global issues while raising funds for relief efforts.
Photo: Pablo Gallardo / Redferns
