John Myrtle - Myrtle Soup

Released: 18 June 2021
Label: Sad Club Records

Listen and Buy Here

London Songwriter John Myrtle is back with his debut album after a wonderful EP back in 2019. It is more 60s inspired jangle with so much charm and melody.

It opens with 'Get Her Off My Mind', which is the standout song here. His sound recalls early Kinks and there are some superb harmonies. It is sung so sweetly but without being too twee. 

Other highlights include 'Here I Go Again' which also has 60s vibes and brought to mind The Velvet Underground - Femme Fatale. 'How Can You Tell If You Love Her?' is more perfect pop which strongly reminded me of The Lovin' Spoonful - Did You Ever Have To Make Up Your Mind?.

'Spider on The Wall' is a lovely Syd Barrett-inspired song. The lyrics have a child-like simplicity and it is perfectly whimsical. The album ends on 'Remember Holly Park', which again has some beautiful harmonies and wistful lyrics.

A highly enjoyable listen and much recommended for fans of 60s guitar pop.

John Myrtle - Here's John Myrtle EP

Released: Jul 2019
Label: Bingo Records
Listen on Bandcamp

London songwriter John Myrtle is a very recent discovery for me. His EP is a magical listen, with 60's psych pop vibes, and I would highly recommend it.

It opens with 'Foggy', which is so laid back and beautiful. I hear a range of influences including a hint of Jazz and the psychedelia of The Zombies, The Kinks and early Pink Floyd.

'There Must Be Something More to You and Him'  is a stripped back, more acoustic song about a troubled relationship. The lyrics express a desperate longing which is just heartbreaking. 

'Cyril the Slug' is a jaunty almost-nursery rhyme. It has the quirkiness of Syd Barrett's more surreal songs. 

My favourite song on the EP is closer 'Beware of Love' which is just stunning. The way the harmonies and guitars work together is almost hypnotic. It actually sounds like it could be a lost song from the 60's era.

All in all, this is such a beautiful EP and I look forward to hearing a lot more from him.