About this item

Misericord invite Al Usher back to their so-occasional-it's-taking-the-piss label for the third time after his "Gnanfou" and "Hilversum" EPs - the impetus for two inspired pieces of chamber disco-not-disco: "The Evenings" and "The Visitors".

Adding an off-kilter pop sensibility to his musical arsenal, Al has written his first songs, grappling with parenthood, ageing and post-Brexit identity with self-deprecation and poignancy. Vocals are provided by partner Jeanette whose immaculate diction conjures Sarah Cracknell, Jane Weaver or Would-Be-Goods by way of Neil Tennant.

Incredibly catchy and buoyant, "The Evenings" is a sweet slice of beach ball Balearica, with beautiful guitar lines, driving bass and perfect disco drums. Jeanette's vocal delivery is inspired - delicate, totally original and possessing a magical quality. Al's Partial Arts partner-in-crime Ewan Pearson is on duties for additional production and mix, alongside a Sleeping Bag-ish disco re-rub of the track on the B-side for club use.

"The Visitors" is just as suited for fooling around in the sand dunes on a blue sky day. Jeanette veering into territories more akin to K-pop or Japanese boogie while the instrumental section is padded and voluptuous. A late afternoon glider with exceptional arrangement and songwriting.

This is a strictly limited vinyl release ahead of a full Al Usher LP due on Prins Thomas' Internasjonal label later in the coming year.

STAFF COMMENTS

Matt says: Brilliant Balearic-pop curveball here from long serving lord of sunshine music - Al Usher. The two OGs are outstanding while Ewan Pearson's double take on "The Evenings" takes the track into late night, clubbier territory. It's a massive win for all involved.

TRACK LISTING

A1. The Evenings
A2. The Visitors
AA1. The Evenings (Ewan Pearson Remix)
AA2. The Evenings (Ewan Pearson Instrumental)