Mr. Shingles delivers a captivating track with “4th July,” blending percussive grooves, organ and piano harmonies, and intriguing guitar chords. The song features a Tom Waits-style vocal that is rough, drawling, and packed with energy. This melodic and rhythmic piece presents a downtempo groove with a darker edge, making it both engaging and thought-provoking. Written during the Covid pandemic and inspired by the Black Lives Matter movement, “4th July” captures the essence of a tumultuous time, and was recorded live at Sol de Sants Studio in Barcelona, adding an authentic and raw feel to the music.
Mr. Shingles was founded in 2015 with the aim of covering legendary Blues artists. From their roots in Classic Blues, the band has developed a unique sound that incorporates Blues and Swing with Latin beats and touches of Jazz and Gospel. In 2018, they released their debut album, Green in Blue, and toured extensively across Spain, Europe, and beyond. Frontman Brian O’Mahony also explored acoustic sounds with Canadian harmonica player James Sedgwick, releasing the album Sedgwick and Shingles in 2020. Their dedication to their craft and willingness to experiment has solidified their place in the contemporary Blues scene.
In 2024, Mr. Shingles is set to release their new EP, Fill in the Blanks. This collection features six original songs, each inspired by a different artist from the 70s blues and soul scene, including Tom Waits, Van Morrison, JJ Cale, The Band, James Brown, and Al Green. With Fill in the Blanks, Mr. Shingles continues to expand their musical horizons, offering a fresh take on classic influences. “4th July” is a testament to their ability to blend traditional and contemporary sounds, creating tracks that resonate deeply with listeners and honor the rich heritage of Blues and beyond.