Renowned musician Johnny Marr is all set to delight fans with his upcoming compilation album, titled Spirit Power: The Best Of Johnny Marr. Slated for a Nov. 3 release through BMG, the album will feature a selection of 16 tracks. One of the tracks, “Somewhere,” is already making waves as Marr’s latest single, conceived during his 2022 tour alongside the Killers and Blondie.
Discussing the essence of his songwriting approach, Marr stated, “In all the arenas I’ve played over the years, the songwriting has to be spot-on. Songs need to hit the mark. Growing up with Motown influences at home, I learned that songs needed to be laden with hooks to stand out.” The forthcoming Spirit Power compilation aims to encapsulate the diverse musical journey Marr embarked upon in the initial decade of his solo endeavors. Notably, Marr personally handpicked the tracks from his quartet of solo albums for this compilation.
Fans can anticipate fresh renditions in the album, including “The Answer” and the aforementioned “Somewhere.” Both tracks witnessed Marr collaborate with co-producer James Doviak. Additionally, listeners can savor Marr’s unique take on Depeche Mode’s classic “I Feel You,” which originally marked its presence for Record Store Day back in 2015. An exclusive deluxe variant of Spirit Power promises fans a treat with five unreleased demos and special tracks, counting the demos of “Hi Hello” and “The Messenger” among them.
Highlighting a decade of his illustrious solo career, Marr has planned twin performances this December in Manchester. Eager fans can catch him live at the newly established Aviva Studios on Dec. 7 and 8, where Marr will be accompanied by a grand 30-piece ensemble, orchestrated by Fiona Brice. Tickets for these musical extravaganzas are available for purchase.
Sharing his exhilaration on this upcoming venture, Marr expressed, “Having shared the stage with orchestras for Hans Zimmer and Pet Shop Boys, it’s a surreal experience to lead and sing with an orchestra for my compositions. The entire process, especially the pre-orchestration, has been deeply fulfilling. Many of the tracks now boast a robust symphonic aura.”