When you combine politics and rock opera anthems, you get Midwest Soul Xchange. Midwest Soul Xchange sets the scene of their rock opera story by following certain characters who experience the Flint Michigan water crisis. Growing up around The Who, Pink Floyd, and classic rock, they draw heavily on these influences within their music. When one thinks of such a heavy piece like this, one’s mind goes to think about musicals. Fifteen Parts sets up the lyrical narrative with metaphors and lyrics that create detailed visual imagery for listeners to come up with in their mind. Narrowing in on the emotional feelings of this tragedy and bringing in positive references to “headphones filled with dreams” gives the characters optimism in the opera. Two musical artists that Midwest Soul Xchange reminds me of include The Decemberists and Jersey Boys. They both are very effective at storytelling through lyrics and are able to mix it up with power ballads and monologues within their music. For an unique genre of rock opera, most listeners will find that these comparisons are where their similarities are the most. Alongside the main subject being centered around the Flint Michigan water crisis, the band does an amazing job of intertwining storytelling, informing, and the significance of perceived normalcy in times of tragedy. Not only does Weakened At The Asylum point out significant political heaviness, but it also sheds light on the struggles of these characters and their point of view. 2018 is the year of possibilities and they show we can be the first to make the change and to not wait.
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Tags: 2018, classic rock, indie music, Jersey Boys, Midwest Soul Xchange, Pink Floyd, Rock Opera, The Decemberists, The Who, Weakened At The Asylum
The Music Court 