The psych lords combine for two tracks: ‘Minor Setback’ and ‘Old Transistor Radio’.

If you’ve ever dipped your toes into the effect-heavy, technicolour world of modern psych you’re probably well aware of Jay Watson AKA GUM and Ambrose Kenny-Smith. But for those who’re yet to unlock this treasure trove of cosmic musical delight, here’s a quick run-down. Watson is a longstanding member of Tame Impala and solo artist, and Kenny-Smith is the frontman of bluesy rock outfit The Murlocs and singer/harmonica player/synthsmith in King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard.

And now that you’re all caught up, we can turn our attention to today’s release, two tracks that nicely pair Watson’s spacey, groove-first songwriting with Kenny-Smith’s unmistakable howl. Lead single ‘Minor Setback’ sounds something like 70s funksters Cameo on an acid trip, while ‘Old Transistor Radio’ is like a modern take on British soul legends Hot Chocolate (who ironically The Murlocs covered for a Like A Version back in 2016.

Speaking on the track, GUM shares; “I make a lot of music, but often don’t have the voice or the steez to put a vocal on certain pieces of music. I’ve known Ambrose for 10 years or so now and I’ve always loved his voice, a mix of garage rock and soulfulness. We’ve talked about putting something out together for a long time. I reached out to him and the songs were done in less than a week. Might have to make a whole record!”

Ambrose Kenny-Smith adds, “When GUM hit me up to sing on a few tracks of his I was super excited! These songs are way funkier than anything I’ve ever worked on before. After he sent me ‘Magic Mountain’ by Eric Burdon and War as a reference for the vocals he was wanting from me I was instantly 110% in.”

The video for ‘Minor Setback’ features the duo is a digitally created gallery, adorning the walls like splashy pieces of art. Check it out below and head here to stream the split 7” on your app of choice:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gdvNw1pMFO0

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