London-based songwriter Middle Name John arrives as an anonymous and fresh new take on the state of the world we live in. A creator, a player, a writer, an observer, an activist, and a person, Middle Name John becomes a representative of the everyday. Heavily involved in the Love Music Hate Racism campaign as a musician and organiser and spending time as a radio host for Soho Radio and performing with numerous musical acts, Middle Name John is rooted in his local scene, showcasing innovative avenues with his music.
Now unveiling the project to the world, Middle Name John’s debut single ‘Different’ provides listeners with the first insight into the forthcoming album Obviously Confidential. Co-produced and mixed by Alessandro La Barbera, the single is an experimental deep dive that transcends genre. An overall lo-fi aesthetic plays host to disjointed melodies, jazz-influenced harmony and delicate yet punchy drum rhythms. Above this arrives Middle Name John’s half-spoken half-sung lyrical ramblings, immediately attention-grabbing, the artist dodges and dives around the beat, unexpectedly moving around in an almost incoherent but spellbinding manner.
Sharing an insight into the upcoming album, the artist adds “The recording process for this album was the most scattered of any project I had embarked on before. We were all locked down in a global pandemic but I knew I wanted to start a new project. I wanted it to be lyrical while reflecting on the strange times we were all experiencing as a society. I also knew that I wanted to work with a couple of close friends in whatever capacity I could, to somehow reach a level of interplay while embracing the bizarre limitations laid out in front of us.
The limitations of recording during a global pandemic inspired the music. Rather than trying to create a band sound I wanted to have a crack at creating something “in the box” or quasi-electronic. I was using contorted guitar sounds on wacky drum samples to ignite lyrical sparks that reflected the confusion and uncertainty of a time. And I don’t think the feeling of that time has gone away, thus it feels relevant to put it out.”