Delivers Punch & Poignancy

Mickelson has long been a master of blending biting commentary with lush musicality, but If You Can’t Be Right, Be Loud. sees him refining that balance to near perfection. This album is his most socially engaged to date, tackling themes of political division, mental health, and economic struggles while maintaining a deeply personal touch. It’s a record as fearless as its title suggests.

“Amplify” kicks things off with an urgent call to speak up in turbulent times. It’s a bold, propulsive track that sets the album’s tone, embodying the tension of a nation at odds with itself. But Mickelson doesn’t just observe—he personalizes. Songs like “Glowstick” and “Two Flat Tires” bring individual battles into focus, proving that even amid grand political statements, he remains a songwriter deeply attuned to the human condition.

The album’s title may imply confrontation, but it’s not all fire and fury. Tracks like “Small Town Scandal” showcase his signature wit, turning mundane suburban drama into lyrical gold. Meanwhile, “Blue Is The Warmest Color” uses humor to deconstruct privilege, all while remaining irresistibly melodic. The contributions of Colin Moulding (XTC) on select tracks only amplify the album’s layered, sophisticated sound.

As both producer and primary performer, Mickelson’s fingerprints are all over this record. The result? A project that feels cohesive, urgent, and undeniably relevant. If You Can’t Be Right, Be Loud. is more than just an album—it’s a statement, a reflection, and a reminder that music still has the power to challenge, comfort, and ignite change.

COMMENTS