Micko & The Mellotronics return with one of their most introspective releases to date. Their new single “Shadow”, out now, offers a compelling dive into Jungian psychology while giving fans another taste of the band’s forthcoming third album, The Trinity, arriving 12th June.
“Shadow” takes its name from Carl Jung’s concept of the shadow self — the unconscious traits we suppress or refuse to acknowledge. Frontman Micko Westmoreland channels this idea into a sharp, self‑reflective narrative. “It riffs on childhood events but looks for liberation through acceptance,” he explains, framing the track as both confession and catharsis.
Powered by the formidable rhythm section of Budge Magraw and Jan Noble (both ex‑Cesarians), “Shadow” pulses with a tight, propulsive energy. Guitarist Paul Cuddeford (The Boomtown Rats) adds a dynamic edge, weaving tension and texture through the track.
The single arrives with a retro sci‑fi music video filmed inside London’s Lightship recording studio. Directed by Ashley Jones, the video stars his daughter Carrie Jones, whose performance Micko calls “the star of the show.” Her presence pairs perfectly with Micko’s Doctor Who‑esque persona, creating a surreal, time‑bending visual companion to the song.
The Trinity was recorded largely at home, with Cuddeford contributing lead guitar and E‑bow arrangements that expand Micko’s original compositions. The album also features:
Arnulf Lindner (Ed Harcourt / Richard Ashcroft) — string arrangement on “When I’m Dead”
Terry Edwards (PJ Harvey) — mystical outro on “Mystery of the Night”
The record was shaped during a deeply personal period as Micko supported his mother through Alzheimer’s. “I found myself pushing further into the writing and characters that inhabit the songs as a refuge,” he says. “The unstable moorings of family past became ever more present.”
Producer Chris Kimsey (The Rolling Stones) praises the album’s emotional clarity:
“The raw, honest, emotive voice carries a posture and authenticity that resonate deeply.”
Formed in 2017, Micko & The Mellotronics have carved out a reputation for sharp songwriting and electrifying live shows. Their lineup — featuring Micko’s spiky guitar work, Noble’s precision drumming, and Magraw’s driving bass — has earned them support slots with Evan Dando, The Woodentops, Blue Orchids, The Monochrome Set, and more.
Their previous album, Le Vice Anglais, received strong support from BBC 6 Music, while recent singles from The Trinity have been championed by Mickey Bradley on BBC Ulster. Their last release, “Misery Guts,” even cracked Louder Than War’s Top 25 of 2025.
Live Dates
17th July — Aces & Eights, London
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