Paul Smith of Maximo Park will release 'Our Lady of Lourdes' on 1st November, the first single from his debut solo album 'Margins'. The single will be released on 7' vinyl (with b-side 'Loop for Becca') and download (with a version of 'A Little Lost' by Arthur Russell).
Written and recorded in less than 24 hours, Our Lady of Lourdes has a propulsive beat, lush echoing guitars and dream-like melodies. 'The song is like a short story describing a sign language conversation. It also touches on how religion provides comfort to those who need it', explains Smith of the mysterious lyrics. It's one of the more electric songs on a record that also finds Smith exploring his love of acoustic and experimental sounds.
Margins is released on 11th October on Billingham Records, run by Smith, the label on which Maximo Park's first ever red vinyl was released. The album is a collection of personal and intimate self-penned songs recorded with friend and co-producer Andy Hodson (The Matinee Orchestra/Warm Digits) at Hodson's home in Newcastle over the past four years. Field Music's David Brewis plays bass on the record. Maximo Park, together with Smith, are currently writing new material.
Smith, accompanied by a band, will take to the road in November. He says ''ve been waiting to play these songs live for a while now so that should ensure an excitable performance although the songs will require a different execution to those of Maximo Park; less frenetic movement but no less emotion or commitment.'
UK TOUR DATES
26/11 - Bodega - Nottingham (0845 413 4444 / http://www.alt-tickets.co.uk)
27/11 - Brudenell Social Club - Leeds (0113 2454650 / http://www.lunatickets.co.uk)
28/11 - Glee Club - Birmingham (0871 230 0010 / http://www.glee.co.uk)
29/11 - Thekla - Bristol (0845 413 4444 / http://www.alt-tickets.co.uk)
01/12 - Bush Hall - London (0207 403 3331 24hr cc: 0844 811 0051 / http://www.gigsandtours.com)
02/12 - Deaf Institute - Manchester (0161 832 1111 / http://www.ticketline.co.uk)
03/12 - Classic Grand - Glasgow (08444 999 990 / http://www.gigsinscotland.com)
04/12 - Sage 2 - Gateshead (0191 443 4661 / http://www.thesagegateshead.org)
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