Mordecai Smyth urges to gather scattered minds with Strange Brew
Mordecai Smyth, a chronicler of the age, shares his views on contemporary issues through his music. His latest album, “Gather The Scattered Mind,” delves into topics like social media, AI, and the struggles faced by young adults today. Smyth’s inspiration stems from observing the world around him and listening to the experiences of people of all ages. While the themes of his previous albums varied, touching on climate change, isolation, and unfulfilled potential, the focus on current issues in his latest work is more pronounced.
The addition of Luxagen and Steve Thompson to the group lineup brought fresh perspectives to the album. Their contributions as musicians and sound engineers added a new energy to the music. Smyth highlights the positive influence their presence had on the overall sound of the album and the innovative directions in which they pushed the music.
Drawing inspiration from 1970s art rock and new wave, Smyth acknowledges the unintentional homage to these genres in his work. The infusion of these influences, combined with Tabitha’s saxophone playing reminiscent of Roxy Music, adds a unique touch to the music. While there are echoes of alienation and dystopia in British art rock tradition, Smyth’s album offers a different perspective on contemporary societal issues without creating a strictly dystopian vision.
The conscious shift towards uncharted musical territories in this album marks a departure from Smyth’s previous pop-psych and prog rock style. While acoustic guitar-driven songs were once a consideration, only two tracks on the album feature acoustic guitar, played by Darren Medland. Smyth’s musical evolution and exploration of new sounds showcase his versatility as an artist.
Collaborations with musicians like Terry Bickers, Icarus Peel, and Jon Camp have enriched Smyth’s musical journey over the years. Each collaborator brings a unique perspective and skill set to the table, shaping the final musical output in ways that working alone could never achieve. Smyth values the diverse contributions of these musicians and appreciates the opportunity to work with such talented individuals.
With “Gather The Scattered Mind” now completed, Smyth looks ahead to exploring new musical avenues. His creative process continues to evolve, driven by a desire to push boundaries and experiment with different sounds and styles. As he reflects on the collaborative nature of his musical endeavors and the critical themes explored in his latest work, Mordecai Smyth remains an artist unafraid to challenge conventions and tackle pressing issues through his music.