Debut record from Unca John

While most in the industry strive for the status of professional musician, Unca John is the refreshing outlier, an economics professor from the quiet Baltimore suburbs who’s dared to step into the limelight with his debut album, Midlife Crisis Vanity Project. While he may not possess the vocal virtuosity or instrumental prowess of a seasoned musician, Unca John’s musical charm lies in his songwriting abilities. With his first full-length record, he takes us on a delightful journey through the quirkiest corners of his brand of ‘kitchen table rock.’

Unca John’s early musical explorations led him down the path of jazz and choral music, where he developed his skills playing the saxophone and clarinet. However, it was only a few years ago that he ventured into recording rock songs. Armed with new music software, he discovered that he could craft the desired guitar or keyboard sounds with precision.

The album opens with “How the Hell?,” the same track that introduced Unca John to the music scene this summer. It’s an upbeat indie rock outing that immediately grabs your attention with lively rhythms, subtly crunchy guitar tones and Unca John’s smooth, charismatic vocals. The song weaves playful and melodic passages, underpinned by gentle backing vocals, a rolling drumbeat and understated synth lines. “Mona Lisa” follows suit, offering the artist’s spin on rock n’ roll. A pulsing bass line fuses with lively drums and lightly crunchy guitars, creating a canvas for Unca John’s vocal work to spin catchy leads and share abstract lyrical musings.

“Replaced by Robots” is a tongue-in-cheek commentary on the modern era’s technological takeover. With clever lyrics co-written with Mike Ramsay, the song humorously explores the idea of machines replacing human jobs. Unca John’s witty wordplay highlights the absurdity of robots never needing breaks, vacations or drug tests while humans grapple with job insecurity. “Subway” takes us on a breezy, laid-back journey, embracing soft rhythms and delicate melodies. The lyrics whimsically revolve around the act of eating sandwiches at Subway, transforming a mundane experience into a musical escapade.

“Your Opinion” emerges as an infectious, upbeat track that serves up edgy and humorous lyrics. It satirises conspiracy theorists, gun enthusiasts and other characters often associated with the American right. With a compelling lead guitar riff and a bouncy bass line, the song grooves with Unca John’s smooth vocals, reminiscent of legendary artists like Elvis Costello. “Honey Girl” invites us into a bright sonic landscape adorned with bouncy piano arrangements, walking bass lines and velvety vocals. Smooth saxophone leads add a touch of timeless elegance to the track.

The album gracefully concludes with “Songs in My Head,” a captivating curtain-closer filled with warm instrumental tones, gentle rhythms and rich, expressive vocals accented by subtle vibrato. Unca John’s Midlife Crisis Vanity Project is an enchanting journey delivered via clever lyrics, infectious melodies and a charismatic presence, reminding us that music’s true appeal lies in the passion and creativity that artists bring to their sonic output.

Listen to Midlife Crisis Vanity Project below