The Xcerts discuss their upcoming album, focusing on longevity and resilience
Brighton serves as the backdrop for the exclusive insights into the sixth album of pop-rock stalwarts, The Xcerts, where desperation, urgency, and embracing discomfort are the driving forces. Murray Macleod, preserving health, opts for a fist-bump to avoid passing on germs from a recent illness, while drummer Tom Heron is currently unwell. Inside The Foundry, bassist Jordan Smith, accompanied by a pint of Guinness and a Flann O’Brien book, represents the last standing Xcert member. Moving to the South Coast for university, the Aberdeen trio has made Brighton their home, building friendships with arena giants like Architects and Royal Blood, firmly establishing themselves in the city’s music scene.
Acknowledging their evolution in the music industry and the advent of social media, Murray recognizes that The Xcerts may now be seen as the elder statesmen of their sphere. Embracing the challenge of navigating the digital noise and standing out amidst the chaos, the band emphasizes the importance of letting the music speak for itself in an era dominated by online presence. The trio’s experience in witnessing both traditional and modern approaches to music promotion fuels their determination to maintain authenticity and integrity in their craft.
Transitioning to a new chapter, The Xcerts found themselves unencumbered by external pressures when switching record labels and management. Their current label, FLG, swiftly offered them a record deal upon hearing new tracks, mirroring the spontaneity and enthusiasm reminiscent of the music industry in the ’90s. Collaborating with producer Larry Hibbitt, whose appreciation for their work dates back to a 2023 single, the band set out to capture the essence of their music in a raw and unfiltered manner, reflecting a renewed sense of purpose and direction.
Reflecting on their previous album, Murray and Jordan delve into the evolution of their sound and approach to songwriting. While their fifth album was characterized by a sense of freedom and experimentation, the forthcoming sixth LP embraces a more deliberate and focused creative process. Drawing inspiration from their early years as a band, The Xcerts aim to channel the urgent and authentic energy that has defined their music from the beginning. Balancing youthful exuberance with a mature perspective, the band aims to create a record that resonates with both their past and present selves.
As they embark on the journey of crafting their sixth album, The Xcerts remain true to their roots, embodying the raw and visceral spirit that has characterized their music since their teenage years. Embracing the urgency and desperation that fueled their early performances, the band seeks to capture the essence of their sound with a renewed sense of purpose and clarity. The forthcoming album promises to be a testament to their growth as artists and their unwavering commitment to creating music that is authentic, heartfelt, and transcendent.