Micko & The Mellotronics Share New Single and Music Video “Proper Job”
Photo credit: Peter Tainsh.
Micko & The Mellotronics return with their new single and music video, “Proper Job”, a sharp and socially observant track that draws heavily from a 70s-inspired sound. The release offers another preview of their forthcoming third album, The Trinity, and sees Micko Westmoreland exploring themes of class, creativity, and the realities of working life.
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“Proper Job”: A 70s-Inspired Single with Social Bite
Musically, “Proper Job” leans heavily into a 70s aesthetic. Lead guitarist Paul Cuddeford of Boomtown Rats brings a glam edge to the track. Jan Noble on drums and Budge Magraw on bass, both formerly of The Cesarians, drive the song with classic rock energy.
Executive producer Chris Kimsey, known for his work with the Rolling Stones, helped shape the track’s vintage feel. The result blends retro influences with a sharp and modern edge.
Lived Experience at the Heart of the Lyrics
In the opening verses, Micko references Larry David and Brian Eno. Both artists have spoken about how social security helped them develop their work. According to Micko, this support gave them time and mental space to create.
As those systems have declined, access to creative careers has become harder. Later in the song, Micko shifts the focus to his own experiences. He sings about building sites, unpleasant jobs, and being spoken down to in the workplace.
“These experiences of mine shaped the song,” Micko explains. Despite the struggles, he also expresses pride in choosing an artistic life. The track carries both frustration and joy.
Classic Rock Energy and a Retro Glam Feel
Musically, “Proper Job” leans fully into a 70s-inspired sound. Lead guitarist Paul Cuddeford of Boomtown Rats brings a strong glam edge. Jan Noble on drums and Budge Magraw on bass, both formerly of The Cesarians, provide a powerful rhythm section.
Executive producer Chris Kimsey, known for his work with the Rolling Stones, helped shape the track’s retro feel. The result is a song that sounds classic while remaining sharp and relevant.
The “Proper Job” Music Video
The single is accompanied by a new music video directed by Cameron Poole. The video features Tuyen Do (author and Emmerdale actor), Haydn Hades (writer), and a mysterious hooded figure in a snorkel parka who deliberately sabotages a job interview in order to evade capture. Playful and slightly surreal, the visuals reinforce the song’s themes of resistance, class, and personal choice.
About Micko & The Mellotronics
Micko & The Mellotronics formed in 2017. The goal was to turn Micko Westmoreland’s songwriting into a strong live project. Their debut album, 1/2 Dove 1/2 Pigeon, was released in 2020.
The current lineup features Micko on vocals and guitar, Jan Noble on drums, and Budge Magraw on bass. Paul Cuddeford joins the band when available. Together, they blend post-punk energy with new wave attitude.
The band has played shows across London and beyond. They have made several appearances at the 100 Club and supported acts such as Evan Dando of Lemonheads, The Woodentops, and The Television Personalities.
Growing Recognition and Airplay
The band have received multiple plays on BBC 6 Music. Singles from The Trinity have also featured on BBC Ulster. Their previous single, “Misery Guts”, reached the Top 25 in Louder Than War’s Best of 2025.
Marco Pirroni of Adam and the Ants has publicly supported the band. He has described Micko as a rising star.