The musical landscape often throws curveballs, and sometimes the most ambitious journeys pause before pivoting into something entirely new. Just last year, the St. Louis emo outfit Foxing announced an indefinite hiatus, culminating in a memorable farewell performance. While the band stepped away from the spotlight, their frontman, Conor Murphy, didn’t pack up his music; instead, he found a creative outlet that kept the melodies flowing.
During Foxing‘s active period, Murphy explored side projects under the moniker Smidley, demonstrating an enduring passion for songwriting even amidst the band’s formal break. This commitment to music never wavered, proving that some creative impulses are simply too stubborn to be contained by temporary stops.
Now, following this journey, Murphy is back with a fresh sound, dropping an announcement for a new album titled Murphy Horse. This latest project signals not just a continuation of his solo work, but an exciting expansion into collaborative territory.
The excitement surrounding the release is amplified by the lead single, which features indie star Lucy Dacus. The track, “Capstone,” promises to blend Murphy’s established sensibilities with Dacus’s unique vocal and artistic voice, creating something fresh and compelling for listeners. It’s a testament to how creative energy can transform a hiatus into an opportunity for unexpected, vibrant collaboration.
Conor Murphy is clearly living proof that musical endeavors are rarely linear. Rather than ending a chapter, he’s seamlessly transitioned into writing a dynamic new one, bringing the legacy of his previous work into a contemporary context while embracing exciting new partnerships. The story of Smidley and Murphy Horse is about resilience, reinvention, and the enduring power of music.
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Credit: Stereogum
