War Child UK has unveiled its highly anticipated charity compilation HELP(2), a collaborative album featuring a remarkable array of contemporary artists and set for release on March 6, 2026. The project channels the same spirit as the legendary 1995 HELP album, which galvanized major musicians and raised significant support for children caught in war.
Recorded at Abbey Road Studios in late 2025 under the guidance of veteran producer James Ford, HELP(2) brings together acts from across the musical spectrum. At its forefront is the Arctic Monkeys’ new single “Opening Night,” which marks the band’s first new material since 2022. Their contribution leads a lineup of notable performers including Olivia Rodrigo, Depeche Mode, Beck, Pulp, Wet Leg, Sampha, King Krule, and Arlo Parks, among others.
The album is not just a musical endeavor but also a creative one. Academy Award–nominated filmmaker Jonathan Glazer served as Creative Director, implementing a “By Children, For Children” concept. Young people were invited into the studio to capture candid and unrestricted footage of the recording process, and additional scenes shot by children in conflict zones around the world are set to accompany the album in a companion film.
Olivia Rodrigo’s track for the compilation is a cover of The Magnetic Fields’ “The Book of Love,” recorded with support from guitarist Graham Coxon of Blur. Meanwhile, the diverse roster reflects a broad embrace of styles, ranging from indie rock and pop to electronic and alternative sensibilities.
Proceeds from HELP(2) will go directly to War Child UK’s mission to protect and support children affected by global conflicts, offering vital services such as emergency aid, education, and psychological care. The album’s release comes at a time when the need for humanitarian assistance has grown significantly, underscoring the importance of collective artistic action in addressing real‑world challenges.
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