‘Drag’ is the new single from Northern Irish multidisciplinary artist Mount Palomar, the creative moniker of Neil Kerr; electronic artist, film maker, printmaker and photographer. A polymath in the truest sense of the word, Kerr’s creative output is, put very simply, his entire creative focus in life, inspired by the loss of his brother and the resulting, life changing grief. The single is Mount Palomar’s first release on Nice Swan’s new electronic imprint.
In the years since Mount Palomar’s inception, Kerr’s unique use of innovative electronic hardware including modular synthesis quickly saw him gain notoriety in the dance music scene. In the first year of operating under the moniker, he was invited to play Berlin’s world famous nightclub Berghain 4 times within a year, including a peak time slot at their gay pride event.
Never has the authenticity of the Mount Palomar project been clearer than with new single ‘Drag’. Featuring vocalist Naomi Banks, it is a profound exploration of power dynamics within intimate relationship, specifically between men. Written as a “a response to the insecurities, self-doubt, nervousness, lust, desire and confusion” Kerr found himself dealing with, over the protracted acceptance of his sexuality he went through in his early 30s, the single’s depth and intensity provides a glimpse into his experiences. Speaking about the track, he says
“‘Drag’ is about my first foray into exploring my sexuality on an intimate level, resulting in me being threatened with being stabbed or worse by I suppose who, for that night, was my lover. Unaware of how to navigate my emotions and the gay scene, which I had yet to even dip my toes into, I ended up back in my studio with a “straight” lad, who proceeded to ridicule and desire me on a rotating, continuous basis all night, like some sordid Jekyll and Hyde character. Clearly in denial at who he was or what was happening, he lured me in and then threatened violence at multiple stages throughout what should have been a special night.
The most shocking thing about the whole experience was possibly that it wasn’t a one-off. When he would message me, behind his female partner’s back, on occasion I would go back to meet him, knowing that the excitement and intimacy would come hand in hand with insults and verbal abuse.”
With the release of ‘Drag’ and more new music set to be released in 2025, Mount Palomar is fast on his way to becoming one of the most in demand creatives in the UK. With consistent radio support from BBC Radio 1, BBC 6 Music, BBC Radio Ulster, support slots with Fat Dog, Ibibio Sound Machine and Maruja and production work for Enola Gay, his multi-faceted practise clearly sets him apart from his peers and firmly marks him out as one to watch in the coming months.
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