The award-winning instrumental recording duo, Hot Mustard, is hot on the heels of their sophomore album Seconds, which is scheduled for release on March 31st, 2023, but in the meantime, they deliver another single “Nickel Empire” to keep fans jubilating. The record continues the duo’s string of genre-bending music that is ripe with sublime, jazzy and experimental elements and an overall retro aesthetic. “Nickel Empire” is also a collaborative product that includes Jordan McLean (Antibalas) on trumpet and Dave “Smoota” Smith (TV on the Radio) on trombone, the duo add an interesting element to the eclectic record with their horn passes that blend seamlessly with the cinematic soundscape laid before them.
The animated music video was created by band member Jack Powell (Opus Thimble), whose visuals are best described as truly sui generis, sometimes drawing comparisons to Terry Gilliam (Monty Python). It features mythical creatures, medieval-style empires and monster-driven exhibitions in exotic coliseums and much more.
Stream the album on SoundCloud here, and pre-save the link here.