Slyder Smith returns with ‘Killing The Machine’, a hard-hitting single that squares up to the growing fear of technology overtaking human connection and control. It’s a theme he sets out plainly.
“This one’s about that disturbing feeling that we’re losing control,” says Smith. “We’ve built something that’s meant to serve us, but it’s starting to feel like it’s shaping us instead. It’s about fighting back, holding onto what makes us human.”
Produced by Robin Wynn Evans (Manic Street Preachers, The View, Sam Brown, Dodgy) at TPot Studio, the track pairs a modern edge with the timeless pull of classic rock, Evans bringing clarity and punch to something both sonically powerful and lyrically resonant.
Longtime readers will know Smith made his name as guitarist and backing vocalist in cult power-poppers Last Great Dreamers, the glam-tinged four-piece who picked up a Kerrang! Best New Band nomination back in the mid-90s. He stepped out on his own with 2022 debut album Charm Offensive, and ‘Killing The Machine’ follows recent singles ‘Plan To Fail’ and ‘Nobody’s Listening’, all of them leaning into uncomfortable truths, from self-doubt and addiction to isolation and disconnection.
He’s now fronting a four-piece featuring Brian Kerr (guitar), Kevin Skelly (bass, backing vocals) and John McAvoy (drums), with sold-out shows and warm words from the UK rock press behind them.
“The new band is sounding awesome in rehearsal,” he notes. “Moving to a four-piece was a great move that brings much more depth to the sound, and we genuinely can’t wait to put it in front of a live audience.”
The single also arrives as a limited edition numbered CD bundle, with a signed CD, signed poster and lyric sheet, plus two tracks recorded live at a sold-out Forfar 10 Bar show last summer.
SLYDER SMITH JULY UK LIVE DATES
11th July – Rock Bottom, Falkirk
12th July – Trillians, Newcastle
