Smidley’s Conor Murphy blends ABBA and Broken Social Scene in new album 'Murphy Horse'

Smidley’s Conor Murphy blends ABBA and Broken Social Scene in new album 'Murphy Horse'

Author: St. Louis Public Radio September 18, 2026 Duration: 26:14
A year after the St. Louis post-hardcore band Foxing announced its indefinite hiatus, singer/songwriter Conor Murphy is making music inspired by what he listens to, in his spare time, in his other band, Smidley. The optimistic tunes and oftentimes melancholy lyrics of “Murphy Horse” — Smidley’s third album — reflect changes in Conor’s life, and the evolution of his relationships with the people closest to him. STLPR’s Chad Davis sat down with Murphy ahead of the album’s September 25th release. They discussed what the last year has looked like for Murphy since Foxing started its break and Smidley has taken on new life.

Tune in to St. Louis on the Air for the conversations that define our city and region. Produced by St. Louis Public Radio, this daily podcast goes beyond the headlines to foster a genuine dialogue, one where community voices are central. Each episode gathers a range of perspectives-from everyday residents to experts and creators-to thoughtfully examine the issues, challenges, and innovations shaping life here. You might find yourself immersed in a discussion about local history one day and a deep dive into a groundbreaking scientific discovery the next. The program consistently makes space for the artists, musicians, and authors who contribute to the cultural fabric of the area. What you’ll hear is a respectful and honest exchange of ideas, reflecting the complex character of St. Louis itself. It’s a direct line to the stories of the people who live, work, and create in this community. For anyone curious about the forces at play in the region or simply wanting to feel more connected, this podcast serves as an essential, engaging resource. The result is a comprehensive audio portrait of a city in motion, delivered with the depth and nuance you’d expect from public radio.
Author: Language: en-us Episodes: 50

St. Louis on the Air
Podcast Episodes
A growing St. Louis restaurant empire is taking root in the Grove [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 20:47
Three new restaurants have opened in St. Louis’ Grove business district in the last three months, bringing diners Mexican flavors at Chico Bueno and Malo and a taste of the Italian Riviera at Baia. All three restaurants…
St. Louis restaurant openings and closings in August [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 24:45
August was a rough month for area restaurants, with several longtime favorites shuttering their doors. But not all is lost. The beloved Asian fusion spot, Lona’s Lil Eats, opened up a second location in Kirkwood. The Gro…
How plant science is taking root in East St. Louis [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 23:40
There’s something growing in East St. Louis. In greenhouses and hydroponic farms, the Jackie Joyner-Kersee Food, Agriculture and Nutrition Innovation Center is bringing scientists, researchers and students together. In t…