Le Concorde – Stephen Becker‘s razor-sharp musical vehicle straight outta LA – is back to kick your summer into high gear with “Morning By Morning.” It’s the latest gut-punch single from his upcoming album Second Mansions. And forget those dainty coffee-shop vibes, okay? This track slams down like a double espresso shot served in a leather jacket.
Hot on the heels of the spiritually charged “Saint James,” Becker’s not messing around here. He’s assembled a killer lineup of scene veterans for this beast. Just like in the “Saint James” squad (we’re talking Roger Joseph Manning Jr. on keys, Jon Auer and Ken Stringfellow bringing those harmonies, Lewis Gordon on bass, and Ross McFarlane behind the drums), you can bet these heavy hitters brought that same firepower to “Morning By Morning.” And those backing vocals from The Posies duo are pure rocket fuel for Becker’s lead.
Produced by the legendary Calum Malcolm (The Blue Nile, Prefab Sprout – yeah, that pedigree), this track delivers that signature sophistipop shimmer – but raised with a rock-ready backbone. We’re talking less polite jazz club, more midnight drive down the Pacific Coast Highway with the windows down and the volume maxed. Early buzz from critics on the album’s other singles mentions “strolling guitars, powerful drums, and stylish synth rhythms” and a “sweeping, stylised feel”. What’s that mean? “Morning By Morning” marries Becker’s gift for lush, 80s-tinged melodies with a driving, physical energy you’ll feel in your chest.
What’s the fuel in the tank? Becker’s poured his journey into Second Mansions. The whole album’s a lush, soulful and celebratory work infused with Catholic spirituality and mysticism. “Morning By Morning” is a whole vibe of renewal, introspection, or maybe just the sheer, defying energy of facing a new day spiritually, head-on. Becker’s known for mixing reverence with groove, and this track sounds like the perfect anthem for shaking off the darkness.
The sonic architects deserve their dues: Becker penned this beauty, Malcolm blessed it with that polished-yet-powerful sound from the producer’s chair, and mastering guru Barry Grint (over at AIR Studios, London) gave it that final heavenly shine. This is what happens when top-tier musicians come together and create something truly divine.
“Morning By Morning” has all the makings of a modern hymn. Le Concorde‘s taking that classic sophistipop grace and launching it straight to the heavens. With Becker’s inspired vision, Malcolm’s anointed production skills, and a congregation of absolutely stellar musicians, this single is like a shot of holy espresso for your weary soul.