Acclaimed singer-songwriter, producer, and storyteller Mickelson is set to release his powerful new album, If You Can’t Be Right, Be Loud., a work that dives headfirst into the polarizing realities of today’s world while offering deeply personal reflections and moments of humor. This marks Mickelson’s tenth studio album, solidifying his reputation as one of the most versatile and poignant voices in the music scene.
The album’s title, inspired by the opening track “Amplify,” captures the current climate of division in the United States. “I wrote the song two years ago about the polarizing division in the U.S.,” Mickelson shares. “At the time, I could never have imagined we’d still be here, with Trump re-emerging as a political force. It’s impossible not to comment on the times we’re living through.”
From tracks like “Glowstick,” a raw and intimate exploration of living with depression, to “Two Flat Tires,” which gives voice to those battling addiction, Mickelson balances the weight of societal issues with personal vulnerability. He also provides moments of levity with songs like “Small Town Scandal,” a wry tale of neighborly disputes, and “Blue Is The Warmest Color,” a tongue-in-cheek commentary on privilege.
Adding an extra layer of artistry to the album, Mickelson collaborated with Colin Moulding, the legendary bassist of XTC, on two standout tracks, ‘Only Grey Matter Boiling In My Head’ and ‘Blue Is The Warmest Color’. “It was an honor to work with Colin. His contributions added a whole new depth to the music,” Mickelson says.
Entirely self-produced, engineered, and largely performed by Mickelson himself, If You Can’t Be Right, Be Loud., showcases his growth and mastery as a musician. “This is my tenth album and, without a doubt, my best work,” he reflects.
About Mickelson:
A veteran of the music industry, Mickelson’s career began in the New York club scene at venues like CBGB’s and The Bitter End. In the 90s, his band Fat Opie was managed by the legendary Elliot Roberts (Neil Young, Tom Petty). Since going solo, Mickelson has earned Grammy ballot recognition for his debut “Flickering” toured internationally, and produced the critically acclaimed “Blanket The Homeless” benefit compilation featuring Grammy winner Fantastic Negrito.
Mickelson has shared stages with Nick Lowe, Ash, Dave Van Ronk, and many others, and his music has been praised by outlets including Paste Magazine, Americana U.K., No Depression, and NPR. His work continues to resonate across generations and borders, blending poignant storytelling with dynamic musicality.
TRACKLIST
AMPLIFY
BLUE IS THE WARMEST COLOR
GLOWSTICK
STOP ME FROM SINNING
JUMP OFF THE EARTH
INTERIORS
STOP ME FROM SINNING
TWO FLAT TIRES
BENEATH THE BLUE SUBURBAN SKY
ONLY GREY MATTER BOILING IN MY HEAD
