Album review by Emma Dilemma
Middle Kids may have had a crisis of faith, but I’ve never stopped believing in Middle Kids. From the moment I first heard ‘Edge Of Town’ in 2016, I’ve been a devoted follower, and with their latest LP, Faith Crisis Pt. 1, released Feb 16, the ‘Kids are sure to earn even more converts.
The long anticipated follow-up to 2021’s Today We’re The Greatest opens with charming little bop, ‘Petition’. Setting the tone for an upbeat and introspective album, ‘Petition’ dives right in, exploring what it means to question one’s own beliefs. This is quickly followed by one of my personal faves, ‘Dramamine’. Released in October, the song reminds the listener to find comfort, and even answers, in those closest to us.
At just over 36 minutes, the 13 tracks on FCP1 weave through feelings of doubt, uncertainty, discomfort, and disquiet. There is a warm dichotomy in the vibey reassurance of the melodies, fused with the often complex and contemplative lyrics.
Oddly, it can be a little difficult to review an album that is so consistently strong throughout. Even the interludes, which offer the listener a moment of self reflection, are melodic and moody. Lyrically, the stronger tracks include ‘Philosophy’, a commentary on the performative nature of social media, and the absolutely heartbreaking, yet hopeful ‘Bend’. The defiance and despair in Joy’s vocals on ‘Bend’ is almost palpable. And then there is the suffocating self doubt of ‘All In My Head’ with Gang Of Youths frontman, Dave Le’aupepe (I almost lost my head when I heard him), who is no stranger to emotional, soul-baring lyrics.
Middle Kids have leveled up with Faith Crisis Pt. 1. Their writing has evolved, shaped by the trials and triumphs of the past few years. Produced with Jonathan Gilmore (The 1975, Wolf Alice), this sound is the same but different, polished and sophisticated. They have set a new standard for Indie Rock.
Ernest Hemingway wrote, “The world breaks everyone and afterward many are strong at the broken places.” Faith Crisis Pt. 1 is a tale of heartbreak and healing. It serves as a great reminder of how important it is to question our beliefs, especially those that are thrust upon us.
In a post to social media announcing the release today, MK said “Thankyou for believing. It’s our album of petition, painful admission, pessimism, praises, pop-psychology, pity, pleasure, philosophy, patience, peace, and hopefully, permission. We hope it reaches you. It’s been a long road and we’re just getting started.”
On repeat all day, Faith Crisis Pt. 1 gets better with each listen. It is a Middle Kids’ masterpiece, and I can’t wait for Pt. 2, whatever that may be.
Track List
1. Petition
2. Dramamine
3. The Blessings
4. The Blessings Interlude
5. Bootleg Firecracker
6. Highlands
7. Bend
8. Go to Sleep on Me
9. Terrible News
10. Philosophy
11. Your Side, Forever
12. Your Side Interlude
13. All in My Head (featuring David Le’aupepe)
Middle Kids will be touring with Faith Crisis Pt. 1 in May and June.
Friday 10 May – Forum, Melbourne Vic
Saturday 11 May – Theatre Royal, Castlemaine Vic
Thursday 23 May – Astor Theatre, Perth WA
Saturday 25 May – The Gov, Adelaide SA
Thursday 30 May – Odeon Theatre, Hobart Tas
Saturday 1 June – The Tivoli, Brisbane Qld
Friday 7 June – Enmore Theatre, Sydney NSW
