Resurface Brick Fireplace Help

I am removing the mantle surround from this fireplace and building it up, hearth to ceiling. The bricks surrounding the fireplace will remain and be visible so but I want to change the look. I was thinking of tilling them but what would I need to so to make that happen? I assume I cannot tile directly onto of previously painted brick.

My only thought so far was to get 1/4 cement board, attach that to the bricks using tapcons and then tiling over the smooth, flat surface. Bad idea?