Track-by-Track: Marty Thompson Dives Into ‘Love Makes Better People’

Seasoned artist Marty Thompson’s latest album, Love Makes Better People, showcases his unique ability to craft deeply personal and universally relatable songs fused with its uplifting message and catchy hooks.

Amid the rising popularity of psychedelic soundscapes, Love Makes Better People showcases Thompson’s soulful storytelling that sets him apart. Drawing inspiration from the timeless music of the Grateful Dead, Widespread Panic, and U2, Thompson weaves together intricate melodies, thought-provoking lyrics, and infectious grooves that will transport listeners to a realm of cosmic rebellion and self-discovery.

Marty Thompson joins us today for an exclusive track-by-track rundown of Love Makes Better People.

1. “Love Makes Better People”

Marty Thompson: “This deeply personal song, inspired by my late uncle’s letters about love during the AIDS epidemic, blends 70s rock/pop sensibilities with modern synths. It’s felt like a hit from the first downbeat, radiating the transformative power of love. Love makes you look up, think up, and become a better person.”

2. “Should We Take The High Road”

“Born out of confusion and questioning humanity, authenticity, and the unstoppable force of ‘dependence rising,’ this song sounds the way the lyrics make you feel. Electrified guitars, a driving synth bass, and seething vocals recorded inside a running shower create a powerful atmosphere.”

3. “It’s My Life and I Think”

“Written in the early 2000s and recorded for the first time, this relatable track reminds listeners that life is what you make of it. Simple instrumentation, including a banjo and a Gilmour-like guitar solo, allows the lyrical message to shine.”

Cover art for ‘Love Makes Better People’ by Marty Thompson

4. “Sympathy Strike (Play Any Card You Like)”

“A rollicking rocker encouraging opinions and honesty, complete with bowling and synth effects, acoustic and electric guitars, and a unique offset minor third harmonic bass guitar line in the bridge.”

5. “Rise In This Anthem of Change”

“Collaborating with MTSU Recording Industry program graduate Mikey ‘Black’ Baker, this track summarizes the album’s vibe: a mental revolution. With Mikey on drums and lead guitar, and my poetry and robotic chants, it’s a call to unite and rise.”

6. “Unite The Best of Us”

“Written in the late ’90s and in production since 2015, this song embodies the album’s themes of unity, love, and change. Featuring a full palette of sounds, including banjo, acoustic and electric guitars, multiple synths, and layered ‘Marty’ vocals.”

7. “Coward of The County”

“My first professionally released cover song and 7’ vinyl record from childhood. This Kenny Rogers classic gets a modern twist with heavy electric guitar and synth sounds while staying true to the original. It’s a nostalgic nod to my childhood and a testament to the enduring power of great storytelling.”

8. “Joy Wins The Great Marble Race”

“Featuring Mikey on lead guitar and Chris Zimmerly’s scattered beauty, this track showcases a unique collaoration process. The rhythm section was created first, then sent to Mike and Chris for their contributions, which were then sliced, diced, and transformed into the final track.”

9. “All I Got Is Some Richard’s Blend”

“A comedic reflection of a 1990s adventure involving hippies, weed, and the perils of being ‘dry.’ Multiple electric guitars, heavy distortion, and a megaphone create a sonic landscape as memorable as the story itself.”

10. “Freakshow Girl (To The Big Top)”

“A fitting epilogue to the album, this epic tale of love, longing, and belonging was written in the late ’90s after a trip to the local carnival. Dark, glitchy, powerful guitar solos, and a soulful reprise should captivate the listener while the ending leaves one ‘hanging.’ A music video is currently in production for a June release.”