Beth Orton Shares New Song “Otherside” (Plus Live Performance Video)

Key Takeaways

• "Otherside" released as third single ahead of June 26 album launch
• Album self-produced, features multi-instrumentalists like Shahzad Ismaily and Dave Okumu
• Prior singles “Waiting” and title track topped Under the Radar’s weekly chart
• Extensive North American and UK tour announced for Sep–Oct 2026
• Album explores resilience, motherhood, political unease, and artistic renewal

Pulse Analysis

Beth Orton’s career has been marked by a steady evolution from the folktronica of the early 2000s to the more expansive, genre‑blending sound she now presents on The Ground Above. After the critical success of 2022’s Weather Alive, which earned a spot on several year‑end top‑100 lists, Orton has taken full control of the production process, a move that mirrors a broader industry shift toward artist‑led recording. By enlisting veteran players such as Shahzad Ismaily, Chris Vatalaro, and Dave Okumu, she ensures the album’s sonic palette remains both intimate and richly textured, appealing to long‑time fans and new listeners alike.

The newly released single “Otherside” continues Orton’s lyrical focus on resilience and renewal, themes she describes as a response to personal loss and collective uncertainty. Musically, the track blends delicate acoustic layers with subtle electronic flourishes, creating a soundscape that feels both grounded and otherworldly. The accompanying live video, directed by Iain and Jane Pollard, captures the raw energy of the session musicians, offering a visual narrative that reinforces the song’s message of perseverance and artistic rebirth.

From a business perspective, the timing of the single and the extensive tour schedule is strategic. With the album dropping in late June, Orton positions herself to capitalize on summer festival circuits and the fall touring window, maximizing ticket revenue and streaming spikes. The dual‑market tour—spanning major U.S. venues and prominent UK festivals—demonstrates confidence in her cross‑Atlantic fan base, while the self‑production model may improve profit margins by reducing external studio costs. For industry observers, Orton’s approach exemplifies how established indie artists can sustain relevance through creative autonomy and targeted live engagements.