The Karma Effect Drop ‘Dangerous Love’: Seductive New Single from ‘Cruel Intentions’ Album

January 22, 2026 rocknews

South London rockers The Karma Effect have unleashed their brand-new single “Dangerous Love” – the second taste of their highly anticipated third album Cruel Intentions, set for release on May 15, 2026 via Earache Records.

Following the pre-Christmas stormer “Waiting On A Miracle” (which snagged Classic Rock’s Track Of The Week and became one of Planet Rock Radio’s Top 10 most-played tracks in December), “Dangerous Love” dives into darker, more seductive territory. A gritty, sleazy guitar riff drives the track, building to a massive, shout-it-out chorus perfect for live singalongs. The song captures the thrill and torment of irresistible but forbidden passion – that magnetic pull toward someone you know you shouldn’t want, yet can’t resist.

Vocalist Henry Gottelier explains: “It’s about doing things you shouldn’t do, but you can’t stop yourself doing; passion overtaking your senses and your mind getting away from you.”

Recorded in summer 2025 at The Hive Rooms near Gatwick Airport, “Dangerous Love” perfectly embodies the band’s self-described “modern vintage” sound: polished ’70s rock ‘n’ roll swagger with a bold, contemporary edge – lustful, raw, and dripping with emotion.

Listen to “Dangerous Love” now and feel the heat.

Cruel Intentions: The Album – Bigger, Bolder, Stadium-Ready

The Karma Effect’s third album is their most complete and ambitious yet: leaner, louder, heavier, and joyously larger-than-life. Exploring love, lust, danger, dark passion, and cheeky wit, Cruel Intentions delivers 11 (or 12 on the bonus edition) rollicking anthems that capture the visceral energy of their lauded live shows.

Produced by longtime collaborator Michael Charman and mixed by Mercury/GRAMMY-nominated Romesh Dodangoda, the record is engineered for maximum impact – “a sound so big, it’s a stadium experience for your ears,” as Henry puts it.

Following the surprise Top 20 success of 2024’s Promised Land, Cruel Intentions cements The Karma Effect as one of British guitar music’s most exciting outfits.

Limited-edition blue vinyl LP has just been added to the Earache store after signed editions sold out in hours – grab it while stocks last. Pre-order signed editions, limited alt artwork, coloured vinyl, and more now via the official Earache store.

New UK Live Dates: Album Launch, Acoustic Session & Festivals

The Karma Effect are hitting the road hard in 2026. Confirmed shows include:

Thu, Feb 5 – London, The Gibson Garage (2pm) – Free intimate acoustic session (first come, first served; apply for guest list via Earache Records form)
Sat, Feb 7 – Carlisle, Rockmantic Weekender 2026
Sat, Mar 14 – Newport, The Patriot
Fri, May 15 – Tunbridge Wells, The Forum – Exclusive album launch show with special guests Departed (tickets on sale now)
Tue, Jul 14 – Oldham, SOS Festival 2026
Sat, Aug 15 – Southampton, Nozfest 2026

A full UK headline tour will be announced imminently. As Henry says: “We want every show to feel massive… make them feel like they’re watching something in a giant outdoor arena in New Jersey.”

About The Karma Effect

The five-piece South London band blend classic rock swagger with modern punch, earning a devoted following through relentless live energy and chart success. From BBC Introducing praise to Top 20 albums and festival stages, they’re one of the UK’s most exciting guitar acts.

FAQs About The Karma Effect’s ‘Dangerous Love’ & ‘Cruel Intentions’

When does ‘Dangerous Love’ release?

Out now – stream now on all platforms.

When is the ‘Cruel Intentions’ album out?

May 15, 2026 via Earache Records. Pre-order signed, coloured vinyl & more now.

What are the confirmed UK live dates in 2026?

Gibson Garage acoustic (Feb 5), Rockmantic Weekender (Feb 7), Newport (Mar 14), Tunbridge Wells album launch (May 15), SOS Festival (Jul 14), Nozfest (Aug 15). Headline tour TBA.

Where can I get tickets for the album launch show?

On sale now at the official link for The Forum, Tunbridge Wells (May 15) with Departed.

What is ‘Dangerous Love’ about?

The thrill and torment of forbidden passion – falling for someone you shouldn’t, yet can’t resist. Gritty riffs, seductive energy, and an anthemic chorus.

The Karma Effect are firing on all cylinders with “Dangerous Love” – a sleazy, addictive preview of Cruel Intentions. Pre-order the album, catch them live at one of the early 2026 shows, and get ready for the biggest, boldest chapter yet from South London’s modern vintage rockers. Turn it up!

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