Returning home from college. A relatively new experience for a 21st century man in the United States. It’s a shared experience for plenty of youth and that's what Fred Kelly decided to write about on Thank You, Good Kids. Kelly explains: “I struggled coming to terms with how different I felt about my future this summer than I did last summer - mainly that the mystery of anticipating college was gone, and instead of excitedly awaiting Harvard's endless possibilities I was instead worrying about degree requirements and career paths.” Those worries are a distant memory for me being almost fifteen years since I graduated but they are completely normal thoughts for any young person preparing for life outside of college.
Kelly’s lyrics aren't as straightforward as his general concept. The meaning can range from absurd to comical to mundane. It’s a mixed bag of meaning that often felt open to interpretation. Musically, the songs felt a mixed bag as well. More often than not he pulls off what he attempts but occasionally certain notes or sections can fall flat. He starts off with the arguable highlight “Acts of God” which is an all around success. The song is simple and hits upon a familiar Americana John Mellencamp type vibe. I liked the beginning of the song but the song really finds its stride after the one-minute mark. “Zizek” is an ambitious song that certainly has some inspired moments as well as inventive songwriting. The song is straightforward rock for the first couple of minutes. I cringed when he emphasized the word “shit” in such an awkward way in the line “I don't belong with this shit crowd” but he redeems himself in the next line “I guess I'm just too good to be around” where the delivery works. The best moment in the song is the funk break down after the two-minute mark. “Inked Toronto” is a subdued song for the most part. It's a solid song despite some vocals notes that could have been delivered better. The same thing could be said about “International House of Pancakes” and “Thanks But No Thanks.” Kelly has some talent in multiple areas but I think he needs to focus on the vocal delivery a little more. The songwriting was familiar sounding with scattered inspired moments. Overall, Thank You, Good Kids is a solid release with enjoyable songs. I’m sure we'll be hearing more from Kelly and I look forward to hearing him evolve as an artist
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