In a remarkable comeback, Tom Misch re-emerges with his second album, *Full Circle*, a testament to personal growth and artistic reinvention. After a tumultuous battle with fame and mental health, the London-born musician has found clarity, allowing him to craft an album that delves deep into his identity beyond music. With a fresh perspective, Misch is poised to reclaim his space in the music scene, blending heartfelt songwriting with a classic sound that echoes the legends of the 1970s.
From Stardom to Self-Reflection
In 2022, Misch was riding a wave of success. His debut album, *Geography*, had reached No. 8 on the UK charts, while his collaboration with Yussef Dayes soared to No. 4, earning them both an Ivor Novello nomination. The artist’s vibrant blend of soulful guitar melodies and hip-hop rhythms captivated audiences worldwide, leading to performances in the US, Brazil, and a planned summer tour in Australia. However, amid this rapid ascent, Misch felt an overwhelming sense of anxiety and disconnection from his craft.
“I had an intense year of touring and I wasn’t feeling good,” he recalls. “I wasn’t enjoying it anymore. My mental health was deteriorating, and I had to cancel the Australia tour. It was a forced pause, without a clear path ahead.”
Taking refuge in his family home in south-east London, Misch stepped away from the spotlight, refraining from social media and temporarily laying down his guitar. This hiatus, initially perceived as a potential career-ending decision, became a pivotal moment for self-discovery, leading to the creation of *Full Circle*.
A New Sonic Landscape
Misch’s latest offering marks a significant departure from his earlier sound. Embracing a full-band approach, *Full Circle* is infused with warm, classic 70s songwriting influences reminiscent of Joni Mitchell and James Taylor. The album’s eleven tracks explore themes of familial love, emotional vulnerability, and the passage of time, reflecting his internal journey during the past few years.
“I’ve wanted to create a record that feels timeless and prioritises songwriting over mere melody and chord progressions,” he explains. “This album is deeply personal, forged from my period of introspection. I wanted to discover who Tom Misch is outside of music.”
Standout tracks such as “Sisters With Me” and “Running Away” showcase his growth as both a musician and a storyteller, blending introspective lyrics with engaging musical arrangements.
Rediscovering Joy in Music
Misch’s time away from the industry wasn’t just about stepping back; it was a chance to reconnect with his passions. He immersed himself in experiences outside of music, from instructional surfing in Cornwall to working as a barista, all of which contributed to his renewed perspective. “Having structure outside of music has been incredibly helpful,” he reflects.
The artist also sought out collaborative opportunities, working with songwriters like Ian Fitchuk and Matt Maltese, allowing for a more communal creative process. He has even embraced grassroots performances with singer Joel Culpepper at open-mic nights, rediscovering the joy of live music in intimate settings. “We’ve been secretly touring small venues, and it’s made me fall in love with performing again,” he shares.
Looking Ahead: A Balanced Future
With plans for a tour accompanying the release of *Full Circle*, Misch is approaching this new chapter with a sense of freedom and enjoyment. “I’m in a really good place right now,” he says. “I’m focused on what feels right and fun.” Whether that involves delivering mail or playing sold-out shows, it’s clear that Misch has found a healthier relationship with his artistry.
*Full Circle* is set to be released on 27 March, and fans can anticipate an album that not only showcases his musical talents but also his journey of self-discovery and resilience.
Why it Matters
Tom Misch’s return to music is not merely a revival of a successful career; it is an inspiring narrative of personal growth amidst the pressures of fame. His story reflects the importance of mental health awareness in the music industry, highlighting the need for artists to balance their public personas with their private selves. As Misch navigates this new phase, his evolution serves as a reminder that true artistry often emerges from vulnerability and introspection, resonating deeply with fans and fellow musicians alike.
