Those of us who are more long in the tooth will remember a band we were big fans of here at AUK, The Miserable Rich. While not exactly Americana in the traditional sense of the genre, their unmistakable sound, blending elements of indie folk and chamber pop resonated with us back then, so we’re delighted that they’re back with the emotionally charged single ‘Glue’ – on their own Rags to Ruin label, albeit on the back of a tragedy in recent years when band members James and Sarah de Malplaquet’s son Kit died at thirteen days.
In the face of unimaginable pain and loss, yet inspired by the nurse’s words suggesting that they should “stick together like glue”, James and Sarah set up the Kit Tarka Foundation to help aid research into preventing similar tragedies. Through sponsored events and their annual concert, they raised awareness and funds for the cause – the first KitFest, featuring contributions from Alice Russell, Fugiya and Myagi and the artist David Shrigley, amongst others, saw The Miserable Rich unveil Glue, leaving not a dry eye in the house.
The song not only signifies the reawakening of The Miserable Rich, but also represents their journey of finding solace and support in one another during challenging times. The band is joined here by Jennifer Left sharing vocals with lead singer James, and the animated video adds a real resonance to the achingly poignant lyrics.
Proceeds from the single will be donated to the Lullaby Trust, ensuring that the legacy of the Kit Tarka Foundation lives on and continues to make a difference.
