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Smidley, the project of St. Louis musician Conor Murphy, has released “Murphy Horse,” the title track from his upcoming album, out September 25 via Royal Mountain Records.

The new single finds Murphy reflecting on ambition, creative frustration and uncertainty about the future. Over a bittersweet melody, he questions his career-focused mindset, while repeated interruptions from his wife provide a humorous counterpoint.

The accompanying animated video, created by Murphy and Steven Pitingolo, pairs the song’s introspective themes with playful visuals.

“‘Murphy Horse’ became the album title when I realized this song summed up the themes I was exploring most concisely,” Murphy says. “I felt confused, exhausted and aimless thinking about the future. In this life, I fail to make the art I want to make. In the next life, maybe I won’t even know what art or music is. To me, there’s something calming in that.”