Mortal Prophets, the post-punk project of John Beckmann, first hit my radar in June this year, thanks to his innovative recreation of Albert King’s Born Under A Bad Sign. His latest release is also a cover, but, in true Mortal Prophets style, it feels entirely original. It’s called Down On Me.

By Graeme Smith

Down On Me is a traditional freedom song from the 1920s or earlier. Its most notable renditions are by Janis Joplin and Big Brother and the Holding Company. Mortal Prophet’s version recontextualises the song’s arrangement, without losing the power of its narrative. Pulsating electronica sets the early tone, building to something heavy, industrial and foreboding.

Along with Born Under A Bad Sign, Down On Me features on Mortal Prophets’ second album release Dealey Plaza Blues which is also out now. You can check out Down On Me below.