Brick Turpin – Bad Boss (2026)
Taking the drabness of everyday life, the frustrations, the head-shaking moments and those “take a deep breath” moments, Brick Turpin acknowledges the grey moments, but he adds spice and light with his moving music. Witty repartee engulfed in smile-inducing retro folk tones, and shining a light on the quiet lives of the tradesmen, Turpin knows and draws out the bright colours within the dullness. The latest addition to his discography is the single ‘Bad Boss’.
On the heels of his critically acclaimed singles ‘White Van Man’ and ‘Like Natural Materials Do’, the UK-based singer-songwriter releases ‘Bad Boss’. Taken from his album, Workday, ‘Bad Boss’ retains the theme of “writing around small people, big city…”, yet it shines with individuality taken on a different trajectory. Traditional folk sweeps across the tune with Turpin’s rich vocals and acoustic guitar; then things shake up a little.
Produced by Rat Scabies of The Damned, ‘Bad Boss’ is more upbeat than ‘White Van Man’ or ‘Like Natural Materials Do’, embracing the rub of Rockabilly in its arrangement. Turpin’s rich vocals retain their almost spoken-word, storytelling style; it’s as if your mate were telling you a tale while you sit and have your peanut butter sandwiches. The thing is, this time it’s a more sprightly version with a heavier kick – a spicy chilli sauce that somehow found its way into your sandwiches. Unexpected, but not altogether unwelcome.
As with previous material, ‘Bad Boss’ keeps the intimate narrative of the average working Joe, and this time it’s all about the arrogant, unappreciative boss and the constant push of capitalism. Yet, while a bit of a rant about a “bad boss” on the surface, underneath it all “there is, of course, a wider, more serious issue as the song doesn’t only tackle your immediate boss but the bigger, wider bosses and governments of the world.”
In addition to the single, Brick Turpin released an official music video for ‘Bad Boss’. With a paper-maiche mask and high-vis jacket, Turpin cosplays the bad boss, reflecting on the challenges of reality as it is. You can view the video below and/or on his YouTube channel.
Find out more about Brick Turpin on his official website, Facebook, X, Instagram, Bandcamp, YouTube and Spotify.
This artist was sent to us by Old Crows Promotions
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