We Speak Music

Mickelson Delivers His Most Personal and Politically Charged Album Yet

Published

1 year ago

February 25, 2025

After years of carving out a name as one of the most compelling voices in Americana and folk-rock, Mickelson returns with, If You Can’t Be Right, Be Loud., a record that showcases his ability to dissect the complexities of modern life with unflinching honesty.

Lauded by critics for his genre-defying approach, Paste Magazine describes his music as “the balance between strong, subtle, unexpected, and sophisticated.” On this latest album, Mickelson embraces that ethos fully, weaving together politically tinged anthems and introspective ballads.

A highlight of the album is “Amplify,” a powerful opening track that encapsulates the tensions of the current political landscape. “I couldn’t ignore what was happening around me,” Mickelson explains. “This song, and really the entire album, reflects the frustration so many of us feel.”

Yet, If You Can’t Be Right, Be Loud., is not just a protest record—it’s also a deeply personal journey. “Glowstick” and “Two Flat Tires” explore mental health and addiction with striking vulnerability, while tracks like “Small Town Scandal” lighten the mood with sharp humor.

Mickelson’s meticulous craftsmanship shines throughout, as he not only wrote and performed much of the album himself but also handled the production. The result? A collection of songs that, as Glide Magazine notes, feature “fervently emotive vocals and melodic precision that reminds the ears of Steve Earle.”

A particularly exciting moment on the record is Mickelson’s collaboration with **Colin Moulding of XTC, whose bass work on ‘Only Grey Matter Boiling In My Head’ and ‘Blue Is The Warmest Color’ elevates the songs to new heights. “Having Colin on these tracks was a real honor,” Mickelson says.

With, If You Can’t Be Right, Be Loud., Mickelson proves yet again why he remains one of the most essential voices in modern Americana. Americana UK sums it up best: “The combination of the layered vocals and instrumental textures, along with a tune that feels immediately familiar, is what makes this album anthemic.”

We Speak Electronic

Alivia Clark Drops New Electropop Song “Breathless”

Published

13 hours ago

April 18, 2026

Meikhel Philogene

Soon-to-be superstar Alivia Clark makes her triumphant return following a one-year hiatus. The multifaceted talent showcases her sonic evolution through her new single, “Breathless.” “Breathless” is a culmination of genres, most notably EDM/House and Pop. The Dance-Pop, Electropop song has an R&B/Soul flair, demonstrating Alivia Clark’s versatility and immense artistry.

“Breathless” is a booming, fun feminine anthem. Alivia Clark’s sultry, seductive vocals pair well with the song’s thumping, up-tempo instrumentation. The flirtatious, sensual jam is a late-night bop that is passionate and carefree. “‘Breathless’ captures the intoxicating feeling of losing control in a moment of desire.” Alivia Clark continues, “The song lives in that space between vulnerability and power – where emotions hit harder than logic.”

Follow Alivia Clark on Instagram (@alivia314) and TikTok (@aliviaaaclark).