This is the second release from MOTU I’ve reviewed. “MOTU” is the stage name for Richard Michelson. He sings lead on a little more than half of the songs here, while Dee Michelson sings on most of the others There are two instrumental pieces. Blues and rock are the main things present here, but folk music and more are built into the mix. There is a bit of a DIY vibe brought by the vocals, and the guitar is probably the biggest winning element throughout. This is a good release with some songs that stand taller than others.
This review is available in book (paperback and hardcover) form in Music Street Journal: 2026 Volume 1. More information and purchase links can be found at: garyhillauthor.com/Music-Street-Journal-2026.
Track by Track Review
Just Shut Up, Stop Talking To Me
I like the bluesy guitar arrangement on this thing. It makes me think of the Rolling Stones a little bit. The vocals bring more of a DIY vibe, though. The slide guitar soloing is on fire.
Something Has Changed
The guitar soloing on the opening section of this is absolutely on fire. While the opener featured male lead vocals and female backing ones, the opposite is true here. This is less blues rock and more DIY alternative in nature.
There’s Only Us
There is some country in the mix on this number. This has plenty of roots music at its heart, but it’s also DIY alternative vibe driving it, too, though. The male vocals are the lead ones this time.
For Jeff
This instrumental number has a cool groove and some tasty guitar soloing. It fits along blues rock lines in some ways, but also has some definite jam band things at play. This is one of the standout tracks on the disc.
Too Much Bullshit To Normalize
Blues and country are in the driver’s seat here. Dee Michelson’s vocals serve as the lead ones. Harmonica is a nice touch here.
You Always Got Something To Say
MOTU is the lead singer on this one. The track is a driving number with more meaty guitar work.
I Look To The East
More of a folk tune with country in the mix, this is a standout of the disc. It features female vocals.
Horizon
I really dig the cool acoustic guitar work on this a lot. The track is mellower but features slide guitar and proggy vibes. This instrumental is another highlight.
Awareness Or Illusion
Electric blues guitar drives this tune. MOTU’s rough and tumble vocals seem to serve this song well.
Easier To Be Blind
In a break from the pattern, the mail vocals drive this cut. Slide guitar and a blues arrangement work well on this.
A Company Man
MOTU handles the lead vocals on this tune, too. It’s not a big change by any means, but it works well.
