Renowned musician, producer, and author Mark Rae has unveiled his most ambitious project to date, New Town Ghosts. This multimedia creation combines the worlds of storytelling and music, featuring a novel and a companion album that will both be released on April 11th. The project is introduced with the release of the first single, The Place I Call My Home, which debuted on January 17th and offers a tantalizing glimpse into Rae’s latest creative endeavor.
Mark Rae has long been a trailblazer in the UK music scene, known for his innovative approach to sound and storytelling. With a career that includes producing and remixing for legendary artists like Dinah Washington, Jay Z, and Texas, as well as his celebrated work as one half of Rae and Christian, Rae’s influence is profound. His previous albums, including Northern Sulphuric Soul, received critical acclaim and featured collaborations with icons such as Bobby Womack and Jazzy Jeff. With over 50 million Spotify streams and multiple platinum certifications, Rae has established himself as a force in electronic, soul, and hip-hop music.
New Town Ghosts is a deeply personal project for Rae, one he describes as a high-water mark in his career. Set in the summer of 1976 in a Northumbrian new town, the novel explores themes of childhood friendship, a connection to the natural world, and the mysteries of the spirit realm. According to Rae, this story reflects the innocence and wonder of growing up during a unique time in history. I wanted to create a project that could intertwine the emotional resonance of music with the rich narrative of the novel. The music brings these themes to life, creating an immersive experience that bridges the two mediums.
The single The Place I Call My Home sets the tone for the project, blending buoyant melodies with whimsical storytelling. Recorded across London, Tunbridge Wells, Manchester, and Liverpool, the track features contributions from over 40 world-class musicians. With strings, horns, choir vocals, and live instrumentation mixed by Erik Miles at The Forum Tunbridge Wells, the song’s cinematic soundscape mirrors the emotional depth of the novel while remaining infectious and danceable.
Rae’s work consistently goes beyond entertainment, using his platform to raise awareness of important social issues. In New Town Ghosts, he delves into themes such as neurodiversity, childhood poverty, environmental challenges, and the importance of preserving childhood innocence. These messages resonate deeply, making the project as thought-provoking as it is creative.
Over his storied career, Rae has achieved extraordinary milestones. From co-founding the iconic Fat City Records and Grand Central Records to performing at festivals like Glastonbury and Roskilde, his contributions to music are vast. He has shared the stage with Madonna, recorded with Robbie Williams, and seen his compositions featured on shows like Sex and the City and Six Feet Under.
Listen to the new single below and keep an eye on Mark's social media for further news about the project:
Comments