Things Are Getting Stranger On The Shore

Released in 2022 on the British independent label Mega Dodo, Things Are Getting Stranger On The Shore represents a distinct entry in the contemporary psychedelic folk and pop canon. Mordecai Smyth, a veteran musician known for his work with the band The Bevis Frond and various solo projects, crafted this album to evoke the melodic sensibilities of late 1960s English pop while maintaining a modern, introspective production style. The project emerged from a period of creative isolation, aiming to bridge the gap between pastoral folk arrangements and the eccentric, whimsical songcraft characteristic of the late-era baroque pop movement.

The album's design and aesthetic identity align with the meticulous standards established by Mega Dodo, a label focused on high-quality physical releases for underground music. Smyth sought to create a cohesive listening experience that felt like a lost relic from an earlier decade, employing layered instrumentation and intricate vocal harmonies to convey a sense of lingering nostalgia. Upon its release, the record was well-received by publications specializing in psych-pop and independent music, often cited for its craftsmanship and the sincerity of its lo-fi, analog-leaning production.