We Speak Music
Devin James Fry releases his post-pandemic masterpiece ‘Retrellion’

Devin James Fry is pleased to announce the release of his new album ‘Retrellion’ this April, 2023. ‘Retrellion’ is a departure from his previous sound, which typically featured him fingerpicking a guitar, either alone or in the context of Name Sayers, the adventurous psychedelic rock band he fronts. The new album, which was produced, recorded, and mixed by Fry, features punchy, hip hop-influenced songs that are difficult to classify into a single genre, with otherworldly synths and glitchy electronics throughout.

Early reviews have noted the shift. “Is this post-punk hip hop? We hope so,” wrote reviewer Layla Merino of yourEDM.com, noting that with Retrellion, “Fry might even be creating new genres.”
The album’s title reflects that it is the product of a time (the Covid-19 pandemic) when societal norms broke down and expectations could be set aside.
“I wanted a word that felt like both retreat and rebellion,” says Fry.
Thus, ‘Retrellion’ was born. Some songs, like lead single ‘Black Rainbow’, feature collaborations with rappers like Brooklyn’s Chris Conde and Denver-based rapper and circuit bender Otem Rellik, while others are solo explorations. All were created using a bank of synthesizers and noisemakers including ‘The Jitter Getter’, an analogue sound effects engine Fry designed and built himself, and which is featured in the video for previous single ‘Purple Glue’.
One song, ‘Ash Ode Variation’, is an adaptation of the poem ‘Ash Ode’ by Fry’s friend and hero, poet Dean Young. Fry enlisted the help of another of his mentors, Chicago flutist Lloyd Brodnax King, to create the song and sent it to Young, who replied to say that he was looking forward to listening to it.
Unbeknownst to Fry, Young lay on his deathbed at the time, and Fry is unsure whether the poet heard the song before he died.
The ‘Retrellion’ merchandise is as offbeat and finely crafted as the music, and includes a 180-gram LP, colouring books, incense, lathe cut 7” singles, soap, and matchbooks. Yes, anything seems possible in the world of Devin James Fry.
We Speak Music
Marsha Swanson Releases New Song “Like An Angel”

Now out, Marsha Swanson’s most recent track, “Like An Angel,” has already started to stir among listeners of progressive pop. Released on January 31, 2025, the song, which offers a very personal experience, honours the one-year anniversary of her album “Near Life Experience” which came out in 2024.
The track was originally an untitled ghost track from the album and it has been re-recorded with a live band and a string section, bringing a new level of emotional depth. It was produced at Echo Zoo Studios by Henry (King Thumb) Thomas, whose credits include Randy Crawford and Paul Weller, the track blends the ethereal beauty of the original with a fresh, dynamic arrangement. The lineup of talented musicians—Martyn Barker (drums), Tony Qunta (guitar), and Anders Olinder (keyboards)—adds to its lush, atmospheric sound.
Inspired by those who have departed but still lead us, in life “Like An Angel” pushes into themes of love, acceptance, and remembrance accompanied by a visually spectacular video filmed by award-winning filmmaker Sam Chegini. Comparisons to the work of Kate Bush and Tori Amos help one to really relate to the spiritual and cinematic sense of the song.
Having already reached the semi-finals of the UK Songwriting Contest, “Like An Angel” reinforces Swanson’s reputation for insightful lyricism and compelling compositions. With continued airplay and critical acclaim, the single stands as a powerful testament to her artistry—a gift to listeners and a celebration of the album’s lasting impact.
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