John Grant releases new single All That School For Nothing from upcoming album The Art of the Lie

John Grant, the American singer-songwriter known for his deeply emotive music, has released a new single titled All That School For Nothing, ahead of his much-anticipated album, The Art of the Lie, set to launch on 14^th June 2024 through [PIAS] Recordings. The release follows a recent teaser for the album and the track The Child Catcher. The new single, which Grant initially penned for Blondie, showcases his adaptability and flair for blending genres, as it evolved from an electronic piece into something he describes as having a “Cameo or Whodini vibe”.

Grant’s journey to The Art of the Lie began in the autumn of 2022, following an introduction to Ivor Guest, a renowned producer and composer, at a Grace Jones concert. Inspired by Guest’s work on Jones’ Hurricane and Brigitte Fontaine’s Prohibition, Grant felt compelled to collaborate with him, leading to an album that combines opulent, cinematic soundscapes with Grant’s signature lyrical depth. The album, as Grant explains, dresses its dark themes in musical extravagance, making its complex emotions more accessible to the listener. He credits music and humour as his tools for navigating both the dark and bright sides of life.

The recording process was intense, with sessions lasting only two weeks at a time due to the emotional and physical demands of the project. Grant praised the contributions of musicians like Dave Okumu, Robin Mullarkey and Seb Rochford, who brought moments of magic to the album. Scottish singer Rachel Sermanni also features, lending her vocals to the track Mother and Son.

Reflecting on his influences, Grant cites pivotal listening moments from artists such as Talk Talk, Kate Bush, Jane Siberry, Cocteau Twins and Dead Can Dance. He emphasises the importance of humour, akin to that found in Devo’s music, while also acknowledging the seriousness underlying his work. For Grant, capturing the essence of human experience, with all its grandeur and absurdity, remains a central theme of his artistry.

The Art of the Lie promises to be a blend of musical ambition and emotional depth, with Grant exploring the political and personal through a lens that is uniquely his own. The album features tracks such as Marbles, Father, Mother and Son and The Child Catcher, among others, each contributing to the narrative arc of this compelling new work. Check out the new single below.

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Image: Hörður Sveinsson

The Art of the Lie is released on 14^th June 2024. For further information or to order the album visit John Grant’s website here.

Watch the video for the single All That School For Nothing here: