NYC-based project Mortal Prophets continues a fantastic, prolific 2024 with the 7-song EP ICNCLST/. Alongside previously featured releases like the Sleeping In My Bed and Brian Eno In Heaven EPs, in addition to the HANUSSEN: The Enigmatic Clairvoyant full-length, Mortal Prophets continue to churn out a dynamic and consistently melodic sound.
Led by John Beckmann, Mortal Prophets casts a diverse spell throughout the EP — spanning from the autumnal, organ-laden foreboding of “Bang Bang” to the hypnotic rock sound within “Flowers For You,” resembling ’80s-era Bowie crossed with post-punk introspection. A more minimalist, spooky intrigue takes hold on “Who’s That Girl,” melding a quivering baritone vocal tone amidst its NYC-centric references. “I wonder where he’s going to take her for dinner,” the vocals intertwine with a title-touting questioning, crafting a late-night tale with an eerie demeanor.
Another standout, “Like the Night” melds brass and twinkling keys for an intoxicating standout, with shades of Roxy Music; it’s a beautiful success on an EP filled with gripping ’80s nostalgia and narrative-forward mystique — continuing a stunning year of quality and productivity so far from Mortal Prophets.
The ICNCLST/’ EP features production by David Sisko, mastering by Mike Tucci, and additional guitar work from Gerald Menke (The Dixons, Dent May).
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We discovered this release via MusoSoup, as part of the artist’s promotional campaign.
