Rusty Shackle – Mayfield (2026)
With an interesting exploration of folk music, Welsh act Rusty Shackle’s new record, Mayfield, was a unique take on the genre, melding their clear folk roots with a funky rock edge. From what I’d heard before on their previous records, I couldn’t wait to check out what they had to offer this time. I came to them late with their 2016 record Dust and have been an avid fan ever since.
The opening ‘Prologue’ is something that always suckers me into a record. I absolutely love the use of spoken word to welcome you into a record, reminiscent of so many great records I’ve loved over the years. This monologue, delivered in dulcet Welsh tones, had my attention straight away. Then straight into the second track, ‘Swandive’, with an open riff which was almost hypnotic. As the vocals came in, it was clear this album was going to really hit the spot. Using the catchy chorus of “Swandive down with me” so early in the record was a genius move, as it got me singing along straight away. The distinctive folk sound really made me think, how can this album get any better?
Well, I got my answer as Mayfield went on, giving so much but always keeping it fresh. The song ‘Calico’ has all the whimsical lyricism and delivery of indie heroes Spearmint. It is such a well-crafted pop song offering all the elements of a hit, and it is one song I always go back to even if I’m not listening to Mayfield in full.
With the next track, ‘Riders of the Purple Sage’, I love how it has all the energy of a classic dirge, with its rich narrative of exploration; but in true Rusty Shackle fashion, you get a full change in direction half way through transforming into a fun and exciting sing along. One of my favourite songs on the album came a few tracks later with ‘Begin’; I love the simplicity of it, from lyrics and vocals to the music. It all just works together and is just a truly enjoyable listen.
With such a great record and so many highlights, I can go into every track, so the last one I’ll touch on is ‘Saturn’s Rings’. The song I have played to so many people when trying to turn them on Rusty Shackle as I feel it sums their sound up brilliantly. I keep flitting between this and ‘Begin’ for my track of the album, and I just can’t choose.
Rusty Shackle are one of those acts where, no matter what I’m listening to at the time, a new release from them pushes them to the front of my mind, and I get lost in a deep dive into all their work. I’m only glad that with Mayfield there are 50 more minutes for me to enjoy this time!
Find out more about Rusty Shackle on their official website, Facebook, Instagram, Bandcamp and Spotify.
This artist was sent to us by Beast PR.
