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 
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Mike Borgia - Philistines & Alcoholics
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Mike Borgia 'Issues To Egos' CD review
Re: Mike Borgia "Issues To Egos" CD review
Re: Mike Borgia "Issues To Egos" CD review
. Organize it and I will review it for you no problem.
