I’ve have been eagerly anticipating Highly Suspect’s new album since their sophomore album got them two more Grammy nominations. And I’ve got to say, it was totally worth the wait! This is one of the most eclectic evolutions I’ve seen a band successfully make in a long time.
The new album, MCID (My Crew is Dope), is an ultimate homage to fans of the band, but only if those fans are willing to follow them into the fray of change without being total jerks. My sister is guilty of wanting bands to do the same old thing they’ve always done, so she’s not quite sold on this record yet, but I was on board from the release of their first single, “16.”
The album opens with maybe one of the most heart-breaking songs I’ve ever heard, and a true stand-out on the record, “Fly.” In this, lead singer Johnny Stevens faces a lot of his demons and airs out all of his truths, while realizing he has something to live for. Having something to live for seems to be a major theme of the record, and I’m very glad this man has decided to stay on this Earth, because he’s got so much talent left to share!
Fly isn’t the only strong track, as “Freakstreet” is a truly infectious synth jam, and it is definitely MY jam. Other stand-outs on the album include the singles featuring the most random array of artists you could think of on a “rock” record. First up you’ve got “@tddybear” which features Nothing But Thieves’ lead vocalist, then you’ve got “SOS” featuring metal stalwarts Gojira. On the flip side, you have “Tokyo Ghoul” which features raps from both Stevens and Young Thug, and then there is “The Silk Road” featuring Tee Grizzley. As if all those contributors aren’t enough, you even get an acoustic gem sang by guitarist Rich Meyer.
So, sure. This album is almost a complete departure of previous Highly Suspect releases, and since no one is doing any side projects, then yes, they got bored and switched it up big time. I still think with a few listens you’ll find the old rock elements you love and maybe embrace some new sounds. As far as I’m concerned, this is my “album of the year.”