Acclaimed singer-songwriter Mickelson is back with his most daring and politically charged album to date, If You Can’t Be Right, Be Loud., a record that seamlessly fuses raw Americana, post-punk swagger, and thought-provoking lyricism. Known for his ability to blend sharp social commentary with deeply personal storytelling, Mickelson once again proves why he’s a force to be reckoned with in the music industry.
Critics are already raving about the album, with Beats Per Minute (UK) praising his ability to “blend Americana melodies with punchy post-punk swagger and lyrical self-deprecation that channels the wit and attitude of Elvis Costello.” Meanwhile, Alternative Press Magazine calls his sound “American folk-rock with a post-punk edge, rustic but scarred.”
The album's title, taken from the electrifying opener “Amplify,” reflects the deeply divided landscape of contemporary America. “I wrote the song two years ago about the polarizing division in the U.S.,” Mickelson shares. “I never expected we’d still be here, with Trump re-emerging as a political force.”
Beyond its politically charged themes, the album also explores raw personal struggles. Tracks like “Glowstick” tackle the weight of depression, while “Two Flat Tires” paints a poignant picture of addiction. Yet, Mickelson’s signature wit isn’t lost—songs like “Small Town Scandal” and “Blue Is The Warmest Color” inject humor into the mix, making for a dynamic and compelling listen.
Adding an extra layer of magic to the record, Mickelson teamed up with XTC’s Colin Moulding on two standout tracks, ‘Only Grey Matter Boiling In My Head’ and ‘Blue Is The Warmest Color’. “Working with Colin was a dream,” Mickelson says. “His bass lines brought an entirely new energy to the songs.”
With, If You Can’t Be Right, Be Loud., Mickelson continues to push boundaries, delivering an album that is equal parts biting social critique, deeply personal reflection, and masterful musicianship. As No Depression Magazine aptly puts it, Mickelson “hits all the notes just right,” making this album a must-listen for 2025.