The Criticals share new single ‘Mother of Style’, a tribute to Nashville’s ever-changing landscape

Nashville’s electrifying rock duo The Criticals return with their latest single ‘Mother of Style’, a nostalgic reflection on their city’s transformation. Formed in 2018 by Parker Forbes and Cole Shugart, the band has carved out a reputation for their high-energy performances and raw, youthful spirit—drawing inspiration from The Stone Roses, Jane’s Addiction, and The Doors.

With ‘Mother of Style’ The Criticals honor their roots while embracing the inevitable evolution of their city and their sound. The track is a testament to their raw energy, heartfelt storytelling, and commitment to capturing the pulse of their generation, a song steeped in nostalgia and change, capturing the bittersweet evolution of Nashville’s music scene.

The band’s Parker Forbes shares: “Our beloved mother of style, Nashville, has gone through many facelifts and small deaths since we first started playing music. From mold-covered basements and backyards in 30-degree weather to Kimbro’s Cafe, Exit/In, and Basement East— the last half-decade has been both bittersweet and exciting. Writing this album, I kept thinking about the friends, the bands, and the houses where we all gathered. It was such a special and locomotive time.”

While Cole Shugart adds: “Mother of Style started as a loop Parker’s roommate, Brandon, had open on his laptop when we walked into the studio. It was just a guitar, a little drum beat, and a slinky bass line, but it immediately inspired us to build an entire world around it. At the same time, our city was changing so quickly, it was impossible to feel at home. New apartment complexes were replacing the houses we used to play in, and our favorite spots were gone every time we came back from tour. That feeling permeates this song.”