Even though Birdsall was raised in Minneapolis, I have never heard his name but, then again, it seems like he has been much more of a “name in the background” rather than a mega-artist with his name in lights. He has written with a list of names that I recognize and also has written a number of hit country songs. The names mentioned in the press release for Birdsall’s ‘Hot Money’ EP intrigued me. Mitch Lucker, Yelawolf, Every Time I Die– yeah, okay, I’m sold and have to hear this for myself.
This quick five-song EP kicks off with “Drive” which instantly vaguely reminded me of the new Machine Gun Kelly album that has been on repeat for me since it has come out. It’s a bit more poppy with more of a Lauv beat but with lyrics that I instantly fell in love with. This song is a true bop and a perfect way to kick off this EP.
“Petty” switches up the beat but not the vibe. This care-free summer bop had me moving around at my desk with a sense of freedom and love. Although this track (and all of the tracks for that matter) is extremely poppy and produced, there’s still a sense of emotion and conviction that comes through loud and clear. I feel like that’s something that pop music has been lacking lately so hearing it come from Birdsall’s tracks is definitely refreshing, to say the least.
Third up is “Your Hook” which slows things down a little bit. It’s a sweet song full of real-life lyrics that don’t beat around the bush when it comes to relationships and the mental health rises and falls that come with a relationship. Although I’ve loved all of the tracks so far, this one definitely had me stuck. There’s just something raw and honest about it while still having a beat that makes you want to dance around. I had to give this one a few listens before moving on to “Selfish”.
“Selfish” was the first single to come off of this EP and I instantly recognized why. This song catches you as soon as the short intro gives way to a dancey and warm beat. I feel like this track splits the difference between “Petty and “Your Hook” as far as the beat and attitude go. It’s a sweet song but full of energy and power. The beat, although a little predictable, is earwormy and the smooth lyrics just add to the infectiousness of this track.
Ending this quick five-song EP is “Mercedes”. It ends this EP on a triumphant note that is such a perfect ending just like “Drive” was the perfect starter. Bringing in some more interesting EDM elements to this track than previous ones just solidifies the genius behind Birdsall. Although this debut EP is only five tracks, you get a sample of a lot of what Birdsall can do while still knowing that there is so much more to this musician than what you hear.
For an EP debut, this is impressive, to say the least. I guess I’m really not surprised after reading the press release stating all of the amazing musicians that he has collaborated with in the past but collaborating and doing your own thing is a completely different thing. Beyond that, just writing music for other people rather than writing for yourself is a huge shift and a shift that I feel some writers just can’t pull off. Birdsall is not one of those people and it seems as if he has no struggle showcasing his own creativity. If you need something to smile, dance, and just let loose to, check out ‘Hot Money’ by Birdsall. I promise it will do the trick!
My Favorite Track(s): “Your Hook”
For Fans Of: Lauv; Dancing; Top-40(ish) music; Smiling
Dance-ability: 10 out of 10
What My Cats Thought Of It: Both cats ate their dinner in the kitchen clearly avoiding any chance of having to dance with me
How Badly I Want To See This Performed Live: 9.8 out of 10
My Overall Rating: 9 out of 10
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