Exploring Machine Gun Kelly’s Latest Album: Lost Americana
Hit Collaborations and Influences
Before diving into the depths of Lost Americana, it’s worth noting Machine Gun Kelly’s (MGK) previous success with the track “Lonely Road,” a collaboration with Jelly Roll that reimagines John Denver’s classic “Take Me Home, Country Roads.” This major hit likely influenced Baker’s approach on his latest album, where he embraces the essence of Americana while weaving in contemporary sounds.
Melodic Inspirations
In a music landscape where many chart-toppers recycle familiar motifs, MGK’s choices seem intentional. The nostalgic familiarity of his sound on tracks like “indigo” echoes the resonance of Kate Bush’s “Running Up That Hill,” creating an infectious goodwill. Lines such as “Living fantasy like J.K. Rowling/I’m J.R.R. Tolkien these spliffs” showcase his knack for blending pop culture references with catchy rhythms. Similarly, the pre-chorus of “starman,” a flip on “Semi-Charmed Life,” highlights his ability to inject humor and charm into his music, even when referencing darker themes like substance use.
Balancing Ambition and Purpose
However, not all tracks on Lost Americana hit the mark. Some songs seem to struggle under the weight of their ambition. For instance, “dont wait run fast” resembles a mash-up of Def Leppard and Motion City Soundtrack, serving as the official anthem for ESPN’s College GameDay, yet lacking a deeper purpose. In contrast, “miss sunshine” attempts to capture the carefree essence of youth but falls flat, evoking the sound of Red Hot Chili Peppers run through a Sugar Ray filter, resulting in a track that feels disjointed within the album’s overall narrative.
Conceptual Missteps
Other tracks, like “vampire diaries,” present a curious challenge. Written from the perspective of a vampire, the song lacks metaphorical depth, merely exploring an imaginative scenario without any lyrical nuance. While MGK’s genre-bending style showcases his diverse musical abilities, it raises the question of whether he is truly mastering any one genre or simply traversing a wide array without a clear direction.
Thematic Depth and Honest Confessions
One of the standout aspects of Lost Americana is its raw and honest exploration of addiction and personal struggles. The consistent allusions to substance use reflect Baker’s own tumultuous experiences, particularly in light of his very public battles. In “Outlaw Overture,” he poignantly sings, “I miss my drugs, they’ve been my friends since 21,” highlighting a complex relationship with addiction that resonates deeply with listeners.
Top Tracks: A Newfound Maturity
The album’s highlights, particularly “goddamn” and “tell me whats up,” mark a significant evolution in MGK’s songwriting. “goddamn” channels the essence of Lil Peep, with MGK delivering a fast-paced flow that matches the urgency of lines reflecting a struggle with addiction: “I’ve been drowning in something, I’m a downer on substances.” This melding of lyrical content and delivery indicates a maturation in Baker’s artistic expression.
Conclusion
Machine Gun Kelly’s Lost Americana is a multifaceted exploration of sound and substance, showcasing his willingness to draw from diverse influences while navigating his personal struggles. Although not every track hits its intended mark, the album ultimately reveals a more introspective and evolved artist, one who is beginning to weave together the threads of his experiences with a clearer purpose.
FAQs
What is the main theme of Lost Americana?
The album explores themes of addiction, personal struggle, and nostalgia for youth, encapsulated within a blend of various musical styles.
Are there any standout tracks on the album?
Yes, tracks like “goddamn” and “tell me whats up” are highlighted as some of the best, showcasing MGK’s growth as a songwriter and his ability to convey urgency and emotion.
How does MGK incorporate influences from other artists?
MGK draws upon a variety of musical influences, often reimagining classic sounds and integrating them into his own work, as seen with his nods to songs like “Take Me Home, Country Roads” and “Running Up That Hill.”
What can listeners expect from MGK’s music in the future?
Listeners can expect a continued evolution in MGK’s music, as he seems to be honing his craft and exploring deeper themes, blending various genres while also addressing personal issues in his lyrics.
