Belgian outfit The Monotrol Kid return with a deeply reflective new chapter in the form of their latest single ‘40 Years’, a moving release that captures the band’s enduring gift for heartfelt storytelling and richly textured folk-Americana songwriting. What began as a solo project from a Brussels-based songwriter armed with little more than a guitar and a catalogue of honest, intimate songs gradually evolved into the full band it is today, following early touring across the Netherlands and Germany.
Their new single stands as one of their most emotionally resonant releases yet. Written in memory of a close friend, the track reflects on decades of shared moments, choosing to honour the joy while quietly letting go of the pain. With its melancholic melodies, delicate instrumentation, and subtle electric flourishes, the song unfolds as a quietly powerful meditation on memory, loss, and the passage of time.
So with the new single out now, we sat down with them to find out more about their origins and what has been inspiring them most over the years.
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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
I always liked the guitar. I had one when I was 13, handed to me by a friend of my parents. It was an archtop with F holes and I wasn’t allowed to use it in music school. Because it looked different to what I had in mind I wasn’t too happy with that one. Knowing what I know now it was probably a keeper. (But I didn’t).
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
I started off with the Beatles and worked my way through music history, at least that's how it felt. When I started to listen to Bob Dylan I went in consecutive order. It made more sense to me. And if you want to steal, steal from the best, don’t steal from poor copies.
What was the first album you remember owning?
“Bridge over troubled water”, My dad loved that one so that’s what he gave me. Still worth listening to I believe.
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
There are so many. I tend to go back to 60 and 70 classics. Jesus Etc. by Wilco if you want it less ancient.
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
Writing music is like picking up the telephone and writing down what comes in. That means that the right place and mood counts and I don’t really get stressed when that phone doesn’t ring, I‘ve learned it will ring the next day, or the next, or the next.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
Wilco, Jeff Tweedy, Phoebe Bridgers, Tyler Childers, Golden Smog.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
Any show where music matters, not the show, just the music. Any show where there is an audience wanting to be touched by music. No hype, no glitters, just good music that lifts you up.
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
Being able to play music and see that you can touch souls. Just perfect happiness. That’s exactly how it feels.
And what is the most frustrating part?
There should be no frustration in it at all. Play for yourself and don’t let other people tell you what to do or how to do it. It works better.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
Be real and sincere in whatever you do. Not always the easiest way but it works.
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The Monotrol Kid's new single '40 Years' is available to stream now. Check it out in the player below.