Artist: Andrew Schneider Single: Mermaid Smiled Genre: Art Rock, Psychedelic, Prog Rock Release Date: November 15th, 2024
Andrew Schneider’s reimagining of XTC’s Mermaid Smiled is a masterclass in reinterpretation, managing to honor the original’s intricate charm while carving out space for a broader, more dynamic sound. Releasing November 15, 2024, the track feels like an invitation to step into a whimsical, nautical world where childhood wonder collides with the sophistication of adulthood.
From the first strummed chord—punctuated by that striking sharp four in the progression—it’s clear Schneider isn’t here to simply replicate. He’s here to explore. Retaining XTC’s idiosyncratic DNA, Schneider weaves in a lush palette of keyboards, synthesizers, and electric guitar, lending the track a cinematic scope that invites new textures into the fold. This is not a cover in the traditional sense—it’s a dialogue between the past and present, a love letter written in bold ink.
The musicianship on Mermaid Smiled is nothing short of exceptional. Chris McQueen’s guitar work (of Snarky Puppy fame) feels both playful and precise, while Joe Auckland’s trumpet dances with a buoyant grace that calls to mind the golden age of psychedelia. Chuck Sabo’s drumming ties it all together, particularly in the latter half, where the track blossoms into a jazz-inflected, rhythmically sophisticated crescendo.
Thematically, the song retains its exploration of nostalgia and growth, mirroring Andy Partridge’s original vision. Schneider leans into this dichotomy with care, guiding the listener through a sonic journey that evolves as it progresses. The first half’s simplicity is disarming, like a favorite children’s book rediscovered. But as the track unfolds, it gains complexity and depth, mirroring the transition from innocence to experience.
Production-wise, Schneider’s meticulous attention to detail shines. The mix, handled by Chicago’s Gravity Studios, offers a wide stereo field that feels expansive without overwhelming the delicate interplay of instrumentation. It’s a track you’ll want to experience with headphones—each layer revealing new surprises on repeat listens.
Ultimately, Andrew Schneider’s Mermaid Smiled is not just a tribute to XTC but a bold step forward in his own artistic evolution. It’s unconventional, atmospheric, and packed with emotional resonance—a track that feels alive in its growth and daring in its scope. For fans of art rock, jazz-inflected pop, or anyone looking for a musical journey that’s as engaging as it is unexpected.
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This song and other tracks featured this month can be streamed on the updating DA DA DA – Best New Music
We discovered this release via MusoSoup, as part of the artist’s promotional campaign.
