Vintage Pop

Messy Mike’s seminal release, Things Are Crazy, stands as both a nostalgic ode and a present-day lament, perfectly capturing the surreal chaos of modern existence and juxtaposing it against the perceived simplicity of the past.

Now available on all major streaming platforms, this indie pop gem offers a bittersweet sanctuary, with its shimmering 60s-inspired organ tones and warm timbered production conjuring a world of comforting familiarity amidst the absurdity of today. The single’s retro charm is matched by its lyrical poignancy, as Messy Mike croons his way through an earnest exploration of the collective disarray we’ve all come to recognise. The track anchors itself in the past, not to escape but to reflect, offering a cathartic salve for those struggling to reconcile inner turmoil with the madness of the world outside.

Miguel Nicolau, better known as Messy Mike, channels a raw vulnerability into his work. A drummer for the folk band The Town Bar, Nicolau created his moniker while in Poland, choosing “Messy” to encapsulate his creative aura and ethos. Songwriting, for him, isn’t a casual pastime but an existential necessity—a way to confront his demons and find peace. His honesty permeates every note, ensuring his listeners feel less alone in their chaos.

Despite the messy branding, there’s nothing untidy about Things Are Crazy. It’s a seamless fusion of heartfelt reflection and swooning indie pop that melodiously enmeshes with the authentic panache of a true sonic craftsman. As a criminally underrated sonic architect, Messy Mike’s creative chops invite listeners into his beautifully dishevelled world, where chaos feels just a little less overwhelming. Hit play on Spotify.

Review by Amelia Vandergast