Mickelson ‘If You Can’t Be Right, Be Loud.’ Is A Masterclass in Emotional and Political Songwriting

In, If You Can’t Be Right, Be Loud., Mickelson proves once again why he remains one of the most essential voices in modern Americana. This album, his tenth studio release, captures the tension of today’s political and social climate while maintaining the deeply personal and poetic lyricism that has long defined his music. It’s a record that burns with frustration yet finds moments of levity, making it both cathartic and deeply human.

The album opens with “Amplify,” a searing anthem that sets the tone for the rest of the record. It is both a battle cry and a lament, with Mickelson’s fervent vocals soaring over sharp guitar riffs and urgent percussion. From there, the album seamlessly shifts gears—tracks like “Glowstick” offer a deeply introspective look at mental health, while “Two Flat Tires” tells a harrowing yet compassionate tale of addiction. Throughout, Mickelson balances gravity with melody, ensuring that even the heaviest themes remain compelling and accessible.

Instrumentally, the album showcases Mickelson’s knack for blending styles. There’s the unmistakable post-punk energy reminiscent of early Bowie, the folk-rock grit of Steve Earle, and even the intricate, layered songwriting of XTC—thanks in part to the contributions of Colin Moulding on select tracks. The variety keeps the album engaging from start to finish, proving Mickelson’s ability to deconstruct and reinvent genre tropes at will.

One of Mickelson’s greatest strengths has always been his ability to balance social commentary with storytelling, and this album is no exception. Songs like “Blue Is The Warmest Color” dissect privilege with biting wit, while “Small Town Scandal” paints a vivid, often humorous portrait of rural life. Even in its most politically charged moments, the album never feels heavy-handed—rather, it presents sharp observations with nuance and narrative depth.

If, If You Can’t Be Right, Be Loud. is any indication, Mickelson is not only at the peak of his musical powers but also unafraid to use his voice in ways that resonate. This album is a testament to both his evolution as an artist and his unwavering commitment to capturing the complexities of the world around him. A masterful blend of passion, precision, and purpose, this is a record that will stay with listeners long after the final note fades.

INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK | TIKTOK | YOUTUBE | SPOTIFY | WEBSITE