The Mysterines’ Callum Thompson Launches New Project AKA with Fuzzed Out Single ‘It Grows On Trees (Money)’

Why It Matters

Thompson’s solo launch diversifies his artistic portfolio and taps into the lucrative indie‑rock solo‑act market, potentially boosting streaming revenue and festival bookings.

Key Takeaways

• AKA debut single blends fuzzed psych rock with satirical lyrics
• Video features giant dogs skateboarding through Liverpool streets
• Thompson performed live as AKA at Record Store Day 2026
• Upcoming shows include The Great Escape and France's Midi Festival
• Limited‑edition vinyl from the Rough Trade set targets collectors

Pulse Analysis

Callum Thompson’s decision to step out from The Mysterines and create AKA reflects a growing trend among established band members to explore solo identities. "It Grows On Trees (Money)" merges gritty psychedelic guitar tones with tongue‑in‑cheek commentary on capitalism, positioning the track for both critical acclaim and playlist placement on alternative and indie stations. By framing the song as a modern satire, Thompson taps into listeners’ appetite for music that comments on cultural economics while retaining the raw energy that defined his band’s sound.

The accompanying video, directed by Charles Gall, amplifies the song’s off‑beat narrative with surreal visuals of oversized dogs skateboarding through Liverpool. Such eye‑catching imagery fuels social‑media sharing and creates a memorable brand hook for AKA. The limited‑edition vinyl released at Rough Trade East for Record Store Day 2026 further cements the project’s collector appeal, leveraging scarcity to drive early‑fan engagement and generate buzz among vinyl enthusiasts. This multi‑channel rollout—audio, visual, and physical—demonstrates a savvy, integrated marketing approach that maximizes exposure across streaming platforms, YouTube, and niche retail spaces.

Looking ahead, Thompson’s scheduled performances at The Great Escape and France’s Midi Festival signal a strategic push into the European festival circuit, where solo acts often command higher fees and broader audience reach than full‑band sets. Successful festival appearances can translate into increased streaming numbers, sync licensing opportunities, and stronger negotiating power for future label deals. In a market where artists increasingly monetize diversified revenue streams, AKA’s launch illustrates how a well‑executed solo project can reinforce an artist’s brand while opening new commercial avenues.