The keen reader will be familiar with Mortal Prophets. When recently featuring the project’s remake of blues classic ‘Born Under a Bad Sign’, we proudly declared: “Mortal Prophets could be a mirage, in the sense that its vibrant character is almost unbelievable, able to hypnotise listeners in less than two minutes.” Now, the New York City creative returns with his latest offering, still taken from the ‘Dealey Plaza Blues’ album. ‘Down On Me’ is another classic treated to a complete makeover, guided by the sapient hands and ears of Mortal Prophets, aka sonic wizard John Beckmann.
A traditional freedom song, ‘Down On Me’ gets stripped of his early blues roots, then dipped into kaleidoscopic and psych-infused alternative electro energy. Boasting nostalgic darkwave and retro elements, the track flourishes on large, bright synthetisers and punchy drum machines, creating the perfect environment for Beckmann’s charming, evocative vocals.
It’s mesmerising how a song can take on different identities. Mortal Prophets is able to take it into new and surprising territories, offering the listener a rather confusing listening experience. We know the track, but also… do we? All references are scrambled, and the brain is left wondering, grasping for clues. As John explains: “My version reimagines the song and turns it into an over-the-top psychotronic stomper.”
Recommended! Discover ‘Down On Me’ on Spotify:
