The style of Mk.gee, whose real name is Michael Gordon, considerably shifted with his writing of “Two Star and the Dream Police.” First off, Mk.gee isn’t exactly the most conventional name, and he has had to let the public know that “it’s pronounced mcgee”. Maybe you thought it was M, K, G? However, Mk.gee’s music is even harder to categorize. Many people might prefer a jam-packed album with a long runtime, though Gordon uses a liminal sound, and his debut album is only slightly over 33 minutes long. If someone is into this sort of mystery, then they will love his studio record, “Two Star and The Dream Police,” which was released in 2024. This is because Mk.gee’s signature, genre-bending style combines elements of R&B, indie, and experimental rock. What draws me to his music is his modern, experimental guitar playing, which, at the same time, pays homage to past ’80s rock, as well as his lyrics. Perhaps, it will also remind you of a time before you were born.
Upon close inspection, one of the strongest parts about “Two Star” is its unique sound, which is in part the result of Mk.gee’s fascinating usage of his Fender Jaguar guitar and its distorted tones. Looking at past interviews, Mk.gee has said that he wants to lean into this “weirder,” impressionistic sound and make the best music he can. According to “The Miseducation of Mk.gee” by Dazed, his mixes even have “weird flyby noises that clang, scrape and echo” in the background. At times, it can sound like the drums and synths are ringing in your ears. Listening to the song, “Are You Looking Up,” this tone can come off as imperfect, rough, even unsettling, but in a good way. On the contrary, the sound can also be entirely cohesive, like in the first few seconds of “How Many Miles.” This stark contrast is most apparent when examining the pre-recorded and live recordings of songs: his pre-recorded songs feature more precise usage of reverb, layering and vocals. In the case of “How Many Miles,” the warped and modulated effect on the “away” refrain allows Mk.gee to add a new element of emotional weight and distance.
Analyzing the album “Two Star” by its lyrics alone, Mk.gee stands out as a songwriter for his ability to highlight common themes, such as relationships, in a way that makes every moment feel monumental. For example, Mk.gee pleads that “if you got something, go and hide it” in “How many Miles.” It is both melodic and weighty, as the heaviness of his words contrasts with the unity of his vocals. In other words, he’s begging the listener to hold onto anything they deem special. Further exploring this, “Two Star”’s delivery of lyrics, concept and voice is nearly one-of-a-kind (one other up-and-coming artist in this territory is Dijon). Another standout lyric can be seen in the album’s breakout song “Alesis.” Compared to the rest of the album, there’s a clear struggle as Mk.gee despairs over an unthinkable situation: “I’m in another body… Whose in somebody else….” Here, some of the most essential album themes are displayed: the exploration of the unknown and the transient nature of identity and connection. Despite this style, Mk.gee’s lyrics still have an air of relatability; many people can relate to Michael’s sentiment of not recognizing themselves, or feeling like an alien in their own skin.
Taking one last look at “Two Star”, it’s fair to say that the album fits the title. There is a spacious or cosmic atmosphere to it. In a way, it is like the wind. You can feel it, but you can never really hold it. Preferring something more technical or mainstream? Think Joni Mitchell or Justin Bieber. But if you are willing to put your headphones up to max volume and take a chance, then this is sure to be the album for you.
