Today, Brooklyn-based psych-pop trio Psychic Lines share lively track "The Darkest Mountain" out everywhere now, ahead of the band's lush, expansive fifth studio album SUNSET ON SUNSET due out August 23 and available for pre-order now. Over melodic guitars, the new tune sees the group share their vision for a brighter future in the face of adversity. On September 8, the band will celebrate the new album with an official album release show at NYC's Berlin with support from Richard Papiercuts and Garrett Devoe with tickets on sale now here.
The latest single touches on the roadblocks that tend to pop up to keep one away from a feeling of contentment in life. Bandleader Phil Jacob explains what the title itself represents, stating, "The darkest mountain is the main obstacle that always seems to be standing in the way of our happiness, no matter who we are. It’s always different for everyone, and it can shift from day to day or even moment to moment. It’s that self-talk that starts out with, 'If only I could overcome this one thing, life would be manageable.' This feeling is universal, and yet some people tend to assume that those with more wealth, success or fame are immune to it. We often forget that many are struggling much more than we are, just trying to survive."
Last month, the band shared the sunny track and video "LA in My Mind" – a tune that plays with the mythology of Los Angeles as opposed to the actual locale. Jacob says, "Whenever I travel anywhere new, I’m always amused at how my imagined version of the destination is completely shattered. This is also how we go through life, making decisions based on how we think the future will play out and often being surprised by what actually happens–and I sometimes find myself preferring the fantasy." The dreamy track came about when Jacob was playing around with a six-note bass line, and it was brought to life by bassist Dann Baker and drummer Tim Simmonds.
SUNSET ON SUNSET sounds unlike any previous Psychic Lines release. Jacob explains, "Lyrically, the album touches on all the delusions we cling to. They may give us hope and spur us on but set us up for disappointment when we inevitably discover that the real world doesn't quite measure up. Many of these delusions are shaped by our lifelong immersion in social media, film and television." The LP delves into escapism and the stories one tells themselves to make sense of an ever-changing, chaotic world. Jacob continues, "In order to bridge this reality gap, we further deceive ourselves and others, seeking escape in the same stories and mythologies that caused our faulty expectations in the first place." These self-deceptions and coping mechanisms form a backdrop for this darkly surrealistic, yet wryly humorous collection of tunes. Citing some inspirations, the previously shared bouncy, bright "Mind Control" is inspired by Captain Beefheart, incorporating some of the rhythmic ideas found in The Magic Band’s music.
Basic tracks were recorded by Charles Burst in two sessions–one at the dearly departed Seaside Lounge Recording, and the other at Figure 8 Recording. Both sessions were tracked live with Phil Jacob on guitar, Dann Baker on bass, and Tim Simmonds on drums. Overdubs were recorded at Jacob's studio during the pandemic lockdown and Burst came back to mix the project in 2022. The album was mastered by Carl Saff and the artwork was done by Andrew Sax.
Psychic Lines began in 2008 with the release of their debut album, Cubicle Puppets. Currently, the band is made up of Phil Jacob on guitar and sax, Dann Baker (Love Camp 7, Eljin Marbles) on bass, and Nancy Polstein (Girls on Grass) on drums. In 2013, the band shared their sophomore effort Everything Keeps Getting Brighter, and followed it up 6 years later with Dance, Cartoon Skeleton. The Vinyl District raves about the band and release, writing, "A delectable blend of sparkling freak folk...Dance, Cartoon Skeleton is definitely an album that should be savored from beginning to end." Late Nite Psychic arrived in 2020, and 2022 saw the release of the live album Phil Plays Wonders of Nature 7/1/18. Now, in 2024, Psychic Lines are prepared to re-introduce themselves with a thoughtful, self-assured body of work that features layered, gripping instrumentation and timely lyricism. In addition to the band, Jacob is part of the instrumental quintet Vague Plot who released their debut album CRYING IN 9 in March.
Psychic Lines strive to overcome "The Darkest Mountain" with their latest single out now. The group's colorful, immersive fifth studio album SUNSET ON SUNSET is due out August 23 and is available for pre-order now. Celebrate the new album with the band live at NYC's Berlin on September 8. Get tickets here. Connect with the psych-pop band now on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube and stay tuned for much more to come.
Watch "LA in My Mind" (Official Video) | Listen Watch "Mind Control" (Official Video) | Listen | 
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