Totally Michael Redux

Prior to seeing Totally Michael in concert I only had an EP I have titled as “For You.” I have no idea if there’s a real EP named that. I haven’t been able to find it anywhere else. I don’t even know where it came from, but I love it.

At the concert I was pleased to see that he had a full length album out. I quickly bought it.

A few songs on my strangely acquired “For You.” are on it. Three to be exact: “Death Hill (Over and Over)“, “Cheerleaders vs. Drillteam“, and “Don’t Stop“. The rest were delightfully new to me.

Totally Michael’s style is that of upbeat catchy pop songs with verses that seem particularly awesome and pronounced. This album was no exception. While I was tickled pink by songs like “Shake Your Booty or Die”, the full length seems to get even goofier. I love it.

“I’m not a high-class retail outlet, but I’d love for you to steal my heart!” kicks off the chorus of the second song on the album. The name of the song from which that line is taken is “Winona“. When I put two and two together I giggled.

This isn’t an old album, either. It was just released in 2009. So Michael’s interest in Winona apparently hasn’t waned much since his younger days.

His other songs cover similarly erratic topics. Of note are “In Her Diary” and “Casual Satisfaction“.

“In Her Diary” covers the tale of Michael trying to reclaim an ex-girlfriend stolen by another man. It’s incredibly jumpable – in concert the crowd absolutely freaked when he broke this out. It really has high energy, and a lot of great lines. If he had a single, it would be this song.

“Casual Satisfaction” has perhaps the most explicit lyrics I’ve come across in my musical ramblings. I know there are plenty out there that trump this little number, but they aren’t the type to make it into my library.

The chorus: “Oh girl, you make my dick erect. Mmm boy, you make my pussy wet.” Multiply by about six.

As such, this song leaves me with a little inner discord. On some level, the lyrics are too much for me. On the other hand, it’s kind of funny in it’s over-the-topness. It keeps bouncing between a 3.5 star and a 4 star in my library. Not a top attraction for me, but unique enough that it deserves a look.

Outside of songs about sex, exes, and Winona Ryder, Totally Michael covers summer anthems, prom night, a slow jam about being single, and a litany of other things with his electronic pop style.

I have heard rumble among some that the whole album is perhaps only appropriate for those in high school. I heartily disagree. While high-school happenings do make a frequent appearance, I don’t feel any distance from the subject matter, despite my 5 years of distance from high-school. If anything the album pulls you in for a minute and makes you feel like a high-schooler with the insane amount of exuberance and happiness that Totally Michael apparently feels on a daily basis.

What to take away…

Totally Michael is unique and awesome in his lyrics and music. And awesome.

What should you expect?

Poppy and electronic tracks about unique topics. The sudden urge to jump.

What drink to pair with it?

A new discovery of mine. The Electric Leninade: 1.5 ounces Vodka, .5 ounce Blue Curaçao, 2 ounces Sours mix, and 4 ounces 7-UP. Stir, pour over ice.

Sweet, tart, bubbly, bright…teal, and delicious. Just like Totally Michael?

Favorite Song?

“In Her Diary”. Hands down.