“Highway Songs” indeed. When I write a record review, I always listen to the music while driving first, then as I am writing the review. Just my way. Missing Joe have done it again, written a classic all-American rock record that could be bigger than sliced bread if given the right exposure. I try my best not to be biased when doing a review, but MJ are close to my heart. This is one of those bands whose shows I was always at. I didn’t necessarily always watch them play, but some of my fondest high school memories come from high school shows and the infamous Madison Arts Barn. I can think of so many moments I was having while MJ were belting out “Old Saybrook”, I have a house there, hence it being my favorite song, and incidentally, my favorite town in Connecticut. I was apprehensive about doing this review, as I hadn’t heard the new record, and was worried it might not be as magical as the last. I’m glad I did it though.
MJ isn’t necessarily the “cool” band of today, they play a deep form of pop-rock music, not the rage with all the kids, but they do what they do damn well, and I am not ashamed to say I enjoy it. They are one of the few fun bands, but with lyrics which mean something. This is the kind of band to, well, drive your car to. I want to drive to the shore and crank down all the windows and drive down Route 1 to this album. The first track that stands out to me is track 3, “Countdown”. Matt Rafal sings, “Now I’m stuck in Connecticut, listening to the radio”. There are a lot of all-American themes in MJ songs, the radio, the town you grew up in, finding yourself and missing a loved one. There’s something honest about it.
“Sorry Tennessee” is perhaps the most country-tinged song on this record. I still can’t figure out of Matt is singing it, it doesn’t really sound like him. Either way, it’s a beautiful song. “Maybe Tonight” has my favorite line on the record; “This losing streak, has made me weak. It’s changing who I am”. After my year, amen Matt, amen. “Candy” is the most upbeat track on “Highway Songs”, or at least the heaviest. “Fold it in a Letter” stands out to me though, it’s the last track and starts out with an acapella vocal. After which it breaks into a piano riff. It’s a bit reminiscent of Ben Folds Five to me, which is never a bad thing.
Missing Joe are always a good time, and this record is no exception. A good time in that “having a drink with friends and reminiscing” kind of way or “driving down 95 on the summer” way. I can’t wait to see them again, as it might rekindle some of the good times I had to their music. Any MJ record is invaluable to a collection.
Incidentally, I recall covering their van with shaving cream outside the Webster one night with MJ super fan, Kristen Estok. Ah, memories.
