I must confess, I’d never heard the original of ‘Mermaid Smiled’. Then again, it was released on XTC’s 1986 album ‘Skylarking’. It’s a super interesting little piece of psychedelic dreaminess, so I was curious to hear what Chicago-based art-rock musician Andrew Schneider would bring to the table with his reinterpretation.
Now, I’ve spoken before of the inherent risk regarding cover songs, and the fine line that must be tread. Thankfully, Andrew’s rendition walks that line masterfully, as he crafts a remix that feels like a love letter to the original with a modern twist.
Enhanced with additional keyboards, synths, drums, and electric guitar, Schneider creates a wider stereo and sonic field in his version of the tune. And, with a full band arrangement, the reinterpretation becomes a dynamic and lush listening experience, certain to appeal to both old and new listeners alike.
Inspired by the likes of Talking Heads, David Bowie, Joe Jackson, and of course, XTC, Andrew Schneider has boldly re-entered the music scene after a year and a half. He’s an artist who unquestionably moves to the beat of his own drum, and we can’t wait to hear what he gets up to next!
Serious tune alert! Enjoy ‘Mermaid Smiled’ on Spotify now:
