Bold and adventurous alternative/world/post-genre duo The Beatroot Road might have an eclectic sound but it is singular in purpose; creating infectious songs while collaborating with some of the best musicians across the planet. Hence their truly post-genre approach, their hypnotic new single confounds the senses, utilizing a thick, reggae-inspired rhythm, sensual pop soul vocals and layers of electronic musical elements. Sounds like an adventure to me.
Confusion Inland is the last in this series of 5 single releases by The Beatroot Road, with a break until the release of the album ‘Humanimal’ later in 2025.
“This song is about traveling to a funeral. It’s mostly images and textures; struggling to come to terms with a disorienting loss, with no real message other than that life goes on, and the confusion will fade. Words are by Demmy James, with music by Mark. This is sung by Maddie Session from Austria, with backing vocals by Ramy Zhang from Canada. Hazel plays rhythm fiddle and violin effects, with Mark on drums, bodhrán, tambourine, bass, organ and piano. Also featuring a piano solo by Stuart Atkins from London. Samples used were a recorded Cambridge Samba band, a tuned cranial bone saw, and a cow…
I’m particularly fond of this song, though I’m not sure exactly what to call it. The video includes real brain synapse behaviour – both confused and calm – in amongst the clouds and candles. Made possible by Pixabay contributors who are also sharing their art without monetization. Credits are at the end of the video, with sincere thanks from us.”
The Beatroot Road have persevered on their bold, fearless and wholly unique brand of musical expression, which humbly pays tribute to a literal cornucopia of human experience and artistic traditions. An ambitious multi-genre collective spearheaded by Mark Russell and Hazel Fairbairn, the scope and influence of this alternative and world music fusion project continues to widen due to the wide open minds involved.
