Pop Break is excited to premiere “Old-Time Monarchy,” the title track for the latest album from the New Jersey-based alternative outfit, The Clydes.
If you’ve been following the site for the past decade you’ll know that The Clydes have a very near and dear connection to the site. Fronted by Pop Break’s co-founder (and editor emeritus) Brent Johnson, The Clydes have been a staple at Pop Break live shows since we began running them in 2011.
“Old-Time Monarchy,” as stated before, is the title track from the band’s latest release which is due to hit shelves on Friday October 25 on Mint 400 Records. The album, like the band’s previous two releases, is produced by label impresario Neil Sabatino, who is also the frontman of New Jersey indie-rock staples, Fairmont.
The album features the debut of the band’s new drummer, Pete Gambino, and the rechristening of their bassist as Andrew Cougar Orlando (a reinvention of his Andrew Lord Chandler persona).
‘Old-Time Monarchy’ is a bit of a sonic departure for the band, definitely giving off a bit of a Killers vibe. The inspiration, according to Brent Johnson, comes from an unlikely place.
“This song came about right after the most recent royal wedding. Brian [Johnson] started playing the riff, our friend Kim helped flesh out the music, and I began writing this fantasy scenario about doom hanging over a royal marriage, though the people dancing around the ballroom can’t see it. The track is a little more new-wavey and soaring than some of our other stuff. It feels fresh to us. And it’s one of our favorite songs to play live.”
As for the album, Johnson said, “We are beyond proud with this one. We took new steps (there are a lot more keys and synths), we think it’s our strongest set of songs, and it reflects the kind of weary feeling draped over the world — but without giving up hope.”
The band will celebrate the album release with a show Friday night at Pino’s in Highland Park, New Jersey — presented by Brittney On Fire and also featuring Honey Wild and Quinton Smith & The Company.
