Mike Borgia 'Issues To Egos' CD review 1 Attachment(s) Mike Borgia Reviewed by: Josh Barr -Mammoth Press[Tue, May 23, 2006 @ 6:00:43 PM] With a silky smooth voice, impressive range, and a firm grasp on truly witty songwriting to boot (something that’s seemingly lost on many DIY singer/songwriters), Mike Borgia puts forth a nice little disc in Issues to Egos that’s chock full of memorable hooks and simple-but-soothing guitar work. This, Borgia’s third full-length and fourth overall release, showcases his knack for solid songwriting, as evidenced in the tight song structures and thoughtful lyricism that guides every track. Let’s dive right in, shall we? Issues to Egos is a compact offering featuring 10 tracks in just under 28 minutes. Don’t think for a second that a memorable album can’t be packed like a sardine can. The disc is more fulfilling and catchy than the majority of more popular present-day singer/songwriters’ work. “Let You Down” is thick with wit and hits its peaks with an oh-oh-a-oh hook that should snatch the listener at first listen, much like the heart string tugger “I Don’t Have Time for You” will with its sing-a-long worthy chorus. More prominent guitar takes over in “When the Bombs Come” but still leaves plenty of room for Borgia’s ranging hook. But before long, the axe is dropped for the ol’ acoustic in “Boiling Hot Water,” which features the disc’s most pleadingly urgent vocals. However, don’t think for a second that this signals another wishy-washy, cry-for-me emo album. Borgia never lowers himself to whining, and manages to communicate the full range of emotions without ever pining or coming off as overly desperate. The tempo kicks up for the lofty hooks of “Issues to Egos” and drops down for “Blood & Moonlight” to allow for Borgia’s throaty speak-sing verses before lifting off once again for…you guessed it, another catchy hook; only in this one if you listen closely, you can hear a trace of Chris Cornell in Borgia’s voice when he elevates on “Take it as it COMES” in the final group of choruses. Flattering comparison aside, Issue to Egos’ missteps are few. The sporadic electronic elements in “Like Cement on Summers Day” don’t really fit the inner workings of the song and the slightly honky-tonkish guitar work in “Misplaced" might be a bit hit-or-miss with certain listeners, but neither discrepancy really takes away from the fluidity and easygoing-yet-lively flow of the tracks. It’s just downright good DIY pop with killer hooks. Given the proper exposure and marketing, and a bit of good ol’ fashioned luck, Mike Borgia should get the exposure and credit he deserves. But perhaps the best thing about Issues to Egos is that it features Mike Borgia -himself. Not some tight shirt ‘n’ wristband image or a self-serving cry-and-sleep-with-me agenda. It’s honest. However, honesty doesn’t always cut it. Especially in the music business where attention spans are short and seemingly programmed to adore the cliché. And here we have the dilemma. But if he were to get his band with him in the studio to record his next effort, stretch his songs out a bit and flesh his sound out with the added instrumentation, it may broaden his appeal even more. They say money makes the world go round. And consequently, it also allows for band accompaniment in the studio. But then again, there’s something to be said for seeing just a man and his guitar captivate the masses…. Ah but that’s enough of me waxing philosophical. Rating: 8.5/10 RI(You’d)L: a welcome change from present-day popular emo; a more mature Dashboard Confessional; or, if you like Chris Cornell’s Euphoria Morning. Perfect Soundtrack for: people-watching; rainy days on the porch; driving solo. :: Altsounds.com :: - Mike Borgia, Luvbomb Records |
Re: Mike Borgia "Issues To Egos" CD review Oooh Borgia!! This release is super exciting. Just so you folks know I feature on bass on a couple of tracks and a couple of the tracks were produced at my recording studio (http://www.screamadelica.co.uk). And if that wasn't enough, that lovely album cover that you see is also my design! YAY for me. |
Re: Mike Borgia "Issues To Egos" CD review This is another one that should come with the 'mad hooks' warning label. A couple of Borgia's songs are so imbedded in my brain, I just break out into song randomly and people think I'm psychotic. Great work! |
Re: Mike Borgia "Issues To Egos" CD review Thanks guys! yes Chris is an important part of this record and truly has helped it shine. Chris and i recorded a killer new song in his studio Screamadelica recently and its the best sounding to date! If the staff at altsounds want to take a crack at reviewing this record go for it!! |
Re: Mike Borgia "Issues To Egos" CD review hahahahaha hell no. xoxoxoxox |
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Re: Mike Borgia "Issues To Egos" CD review ahahah I love AJ's reply! I will organize a copy of course dude. |
Re: Mike Borgia "Issues To Egos" CD review Hooray for Borgia!! |
Re: Mike Borgia "Issues To Egos" CD review Reviewed by Kevin Barnes of Altsounds. Mike Borgia has now for some years been writing some truly thought provoking material, his turnout to date is impressive in it's volume considering the end of previous band Tread only ceased to exist a few years ago. In this relatively short space of time, Mike has been establishing himself in both the US and UK; to great effect, this album was very eagerly anticipated on both sides of the Atlantic. With the copy landing on the Altsounds doormat, the hype is certainly justified. This collection of 10 songs is without doubt the best compilation to bear the Mike Borgia name since his solo endeavour began, not to say the others weren't good, but Mike has definitely raised the bar with these recordings. There is a political undertone on show; possibly not the primary topic for the songs as there are also personal stories emanating, but it's certainly involved in Mike's lyric writing. The strengths are numerous on the album and easily identifiable, firstly, Mike's ability to write simple yet brilliant acoustic songs, with the addition of drums and bass into some songs, there is a nice variety established early on. Secondly, Mike's voice is a unique characteristic and does make the experience that little bit richer. 'Let You Down' is the opener, and in less than 2 minutes sets a brilliant tone, this is the typically upbeat opening track that just prepares you for what's to come. But then, a change, Mike doesn't burst straight from the final chorus lyric "at least I know I've tried" with electric guitars ringing into another loud number. The slow burning, epic 'I Don't Have Time For You' does what it says on the tin, the picked acoustic intro is brilliant, and the hairs on the back of your neck could easily be reaching for orbit by the time the chorus comes in, the mood in this song is sombre and lyrically it could be viewed as a depressing song, what really makes it is the contrast of the guitar to the downbeat mood. It is quiet and thoughtful, yet adds a nice quality to the overall sound, the songs just feels heart warming and will leave you in a good mood, regardless of musical disposition. The full band treatment is given to 'When The Bombs Come', underlining Borgia's politically themed lyrics coming into play (on a side note, the toy soldier on the front cover isn't totally misleading). This song doesn't really go over the top and is a nice run through of a catchy melody and agreeable guitar lines. 'Boiling Hot Water' is another great song, highlighting a possible preference of Borgia's in the short but sweet songs. The chorus in this song is brilliant in it's simplicity but is so catchy, and Mike displays his vocal range superbly. 'Blood and Moonlight' is fairly standard, this makes title track 'Issues To Egos' hit even harder, the harmonies are subtle but do really add to the feel of the song. Before you realise it, the drum introduced song 'Misplaced' is number 7, and the album is just breezing by. 'This Is Not A Song' is summing up Borgia's political, specifically war related themes perfectly, the songs are typical of protest songs, but add clever twists, such as the title defining lyric "Don't get me wrong, because this is not a song about the war." 'Like Cement On A Summers Day' is a variation on what's come previously, the track is strangely segmented, dropping out completely in parts and then beginning again on the back of drum beats and electronically distorted sounds, all very different from the straight up acoustic songs which came before. 'A Journal (Write This Down)' is the longest song on the CD, and Borgia's voice sweeps epically through the chorus, this is a perfect close to the album. It's unfortunate to note how quickly this album has passed by; it would be nice to be able to experience a little more, but then again, the extra time would be a waste if it compromised on quality, the album is just the perfect blend of songs and time to make you want to have another listen straight after. Mike Borgia is certainly building on what he's already achieved, if enough people get wind of this album then he could well earn a whole legion of new fans. Whether politically or emotionally charged, Mike's lyrics provide some brilliant song writing moments; void of any obvious criticism, Mike has created a gem of an album. Check out Issues to Egos in it's Entiritey on Altsounds.com: http://www.altsounds.com/altsounds/a...ury.css&id=217 |
Re: Mike Borgia "Issues To Egos" CD review Kevin did actually give this album a 10 out of 10 but because I already gave it a 9 it won't let me change it! |
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