We’re nearly five years removed from the release of magnetkingmagnetqueen, New Madrid’s third LP and the record most responsible for putting the Athens group on the map. That should feel like forever ago, especially when you consider the glacial slowing of time that has been the pandemic. And yet when the group announced their imminent return last week, it felt oddly matter of fact. Maybe it’s the constant churn of social media or perhaps the cyclical rhythm of the Classic City scene, in which projects roll out and return like the tide. Whatever the case may be, the prospect of a new record from the psych-rockers never felt particularly far away.
Does this mean I’m any less excited about the return of New Madrid? Hells no. magnetkingmagnetqueen was a banger of a record, and I’m curious to hear how the quartet has evolved since. Boasting ten new tracks, the upcoming self-titled LP marks the band’s fourth full length since forming over a decade ago. It was produced by Drew Vandenberg (Futurebirds, Bambara, Faye Webster) and is scheduled for released on Apr. 30 via Lemonade Records.
As part of the album announcement, New Madrid also shared the record’s lead single “It’s Ok (2 Cry).” Powered by jangly guitars and buoyant grooves, the song merges the quartet’s love of warm psychedelia with a sophisticated pop melodicism. But lurking beneath the breezy vibes and bouncy hooks is an embrace of doubt and vulnerability. Or as lead singer Phil McGill explains in the group’s press release, “It’s okay to not be okay. It’s important to appreciate the small things that make us happy as much as the big ones. Uncertainty is certain. Feelings usually pass, fade, grow and change. Love yourself and make time for yourself. Make time for the ones you love. Trust the mystery.”
Give it a listen below.
More Info:
Web: newmadridband.com
Basecamp: newmadridmusic.bandcamp.com
Facebook: @newmadridband
Instagram: @newmadrid
Twitter: @NewMdrd