Murray Attaway excited to release new music
Murray Attaway has reemerged into the music scene with the release of his latest album titled Tense Music Plays, marking his first album release in thirty years. A new video for the album’s debut single, “Breath,” accompanies the album’s launch. Attaway, known for his work with Guadalcanal Diary, a band that gained popularity in the late ’80s and early ’90s, releasing their first EP, Watusi Rodeo, under EOD Records before signing with db Recs for their first full-length album, Walking in the Shadow of the Big Man. The band’s success led them to a contract with Elektra Records, resulting in the release of several albums before the members went their separate ways.
Following his time with Guadalcanal Diary, Attaway signed with Geffen Records’ DGC label for a solo project, encountering obstacles that delayed his second solo album’s release. Despite these setbacks, Attaway has kept busy, exploring other creative outlets such as scoring films, working as a graphic designer, developing websites, and hosting a podcast.
Reflecting on his extended hiatus from music, Attaway attributes the delay to various distractions in life, including parenting, running a business, relocating back to Atlanta, and traveling. However, the desire to create new music never waned, culminating in the decision to produce Tense Music Plays with producer Mark Williams. Attaway acknowledges the changes in the music industry since his last album, emphasizing the benefits of the current environment for independent artists to reach niche audiences without the pressure of mainstream success.
When asked about his current musical preferences, Attaway mentions artists like Silk Sonic, Bruno Mars, the Linda Lindas, Ginger Root, Washed Out, and Labi Siffre, along with praise for Peter Holsapple’s latest album and local Atlanta artist Blueburst. His eclectic taste also includes classics like Serge Gainsbourg and old 78s, showcasing his diverse musical palette.
In addition to his music career, Attaway surprises many with his daily biking routine, ability to read words backward, and language-learning skills. He delves into his podcast, Dazzle Dudes, a whimsical tale of a fictional glam-rock band from Georgia in the 1970s, which served as a muse for his latest album. Attaway expresses his intention to continue the podcast and hints at another season in the works.
To celebrate the release of Tense Music Plays, Murray Attaway has scheduled two shows in May at Eddie’s Attic in Decatur and The Foundry in Athens, Georgia. The shows promise an unforgettable evening of music, with Clay Harper as the opening act on both nights. Attaway’s return to the spotlight signifies a new chapter in his musical journey, one that promises creativity and passion for the art form that has defined his career.