It’s Spotify Wrapped time, and I was semi-surprised to discover Mortal Prophets as my top artist of the year. Then I remembered how prolific he’s been this year, and how I gobbled up each of his new releases.

By Graeme Smith

Two albums and five EPs by John Beckmann’s Mortal Prophets have passed through our pages in 2024. It’s simply staggering to look back on. Not content with that, John has released album number three just before the end of the year.

The Laurel Canyon Lost Sessions 1966-69 is another one of those cases where the album’s story is as interesting as the music. John weaves legends behind each release, and I’m never sure to believe them or not. His new album imagines that he has unearthed the forgotten sessions of a ’60s rock band. Whatever the truth, there’s an authenticity to the album’s sound that renders the debate pointless.

The plodding, relentless bass of Tune In welcomes us into this world. It’s contrasted nicely by twinkling etherealness, fuzzy riffs and a funky groove. It builds atmosphere so effortlessly we can’t help but be transported as a listener. Close your eyes and you’ll quickly be in a smoky room surrounded by peace and love.

From there we are taken on a metaphorical trip. Each track brings its only nuance to the freakout, be it the cosmic psychedelia of The Trip, the vibrant organ of Orange Sunshine or the lingering wah-wah of Whiskey a Go Go. Sunset Strip takes us on a drive along the coast. Spaced Out gets us dancing. Astral Rays brings some late album heaviness before Surf Lodge Psycho closes things, leaving us wanting more.

There truly is no-one else out there like John Beckmann and his Mortal Prophets. I’m eager for his next project already, and I’m sure I won’t have long to wait.

The Laurel Canyon Lost Sessions is out now and you can give it a listen below.