Mickelson returns with tenth studio album

Scott Mickelson is a Bay Area-based artist and producer whose career spans decades, blending sharp storytelling with stellar musicianship. From his early days in the New York club scene playing legendary venues like CBGB’s and The Bitter End to fronting the 90s band Fat Opie under the management of Elliot Roberts, who’s worked with the likes of Neil Young and Tom Petty, Mickelson has earned a reputation as a fiercely independent and revered musician.

Since launching his solo career, he’s earned Grammy recognition for his debut album Flickering, toured internationally and produced the widely praised benefit compilation Blanket The Homeless, featuring Grammy winner Fantastic Negrito. His work has been featured on NPR, Huffington Post, CBS Morning Show, Paste Magazine, No Depression, and Americana U.K., among others and he’s played alongside artists like Nick Lowe, Ash and Dave Van Ronk.

Now, Mickelson unveils his tenth studio album, If You Can’t Be Right, Be Loud., a record that frames the complex nature of modern life with an uncompromising gaze. Mixing personal vulnerability with biting social commentary, the album captures the tension of a world increasingly defined by division, all led by his rich vocals and sensational instrumental panache.

The opening track, “Amplify,” sets up the record with a direct reflection on the polarising state of USA politics. “I wrote the song two years ago about the division in the U.S.,” Mickelson explains. “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.” Yet, the album is not solely political; it also explores poignant and personal themes.

“Glowstick” presents a dissection of living with depression from the artist’s perspective, while “Two Flat Tires” tells the story of those struggling with addiction. Mickelson balances these weightier themes with moments of wit and levity, as heard in “Small Town Scandal,” a tongue-in-cheek tale of neighbourhood disputes and “Blue Is The Warmest Color,” a satirical look at privilege.

A highlight of the album is Mickelson’s collaboration with XTC bassist Colin Moulding, who lends his talents to “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 shares.

Self-produced, engineered and largely performed by Mickelson himself, If You Can’t Be Right, Be Loud. is the culmination of a career spent sharing an enduring and wholly enjoyable sonic vision. “This is my tenth album and, without a doubt, my best work,” he reflects. The record not only confirms Mickelson’s place as one of the most compelling voices in modern songwriting but also showcases his ability to turn the chaos of modern life into something engaging, worthwhile and profoundly human.

Listen to If You Can’t Be Right, Be Loud. below