Written By McKenna Lessenger
For fans of Braid, Cap’n Jazz, and other emo/indie rock adjacent bands, M.I.J. offers a melodic yet evocative quality with their release, The Radio Goodnight. Released on March 16, 2000, The Radio Goodnight was the first full-length record released by the three-piece emo band from Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The band began playing together in 1994, focusing mainly on playing, more so than recording, allowing them to craft the distinct sound present in The Radio Goodnight. Throughout their time together, M.I.J.’s sound evolved from the fast, aggressive, truly emo and post-punk sound present in Chewed Smoth Center to a more Midwest emo/indie influenced tenor, mainly determined by the chilling vocals of Jeff Hanson. Though they put out limited music, their sound is strong and easily recognizable, holding its own as one of the best underappreciated emo bands of its time.
The tracks themselves are characterized by Hanson’s vocals, catchy riffs, and repetitive drumming, creating a smooth, atmospheric experience that leaves you wanting more. Bouncing between paces and rhythms, the record effortlessly moves from slow, melancholic ballads that soothe just right, like “Sometimes in sleep”, to fast, hard-hitting songs like “Say it in words”, which offers the perfect opening track for the album. The energy in this track is immense, and in its footsteps follows the title track, another dynamic and snappy tune. Repetitive rhythms, the androgynous vocals of Hanson, and punching drums create the perfect pair. Although any form of lyrics for the majority of M.I.J. songs are scattered with question marks, you can’t help but love every unintelligible word.
While this album has a range from ballads to twangy tunes, in my opinion, the best tracks are those that fall right in the center. “The Last Time Was” and “West” are masterpieces of whatever genre you decide to place M.I.J. in. The group’s raw talent and chemistry lend the song’s progressions to be constantly captivating, and just when you want a change of pace, they give it to you. Gripping bridges driven by Kennedy’s drums offer relief from repetitive melodies, all of which have an upbeat and pleasurable energy once again influenced by Hanson’s lyrics, voice, and supporting vocals. The Radio Goodnight is a master of a curated vibe, and when you start to want it, you’ll never stop.
Although most lyrics are either unintelligible or unavailable, those that are easily distinguished offer charming scenes and sentiments. While not explicitly romantic, the lyrics in tracks like “Right Down Town” and “Say It In Words” are lulling and soothing. The Endearing repetition of phrases like “your eyes move mine now” and “hear your voice, both soft and loud” top off already lovely songs with an extra dose of quaint ambiance. The only possible complaint that I could offer about this album would be the lack of tracks resembling their earlier sound, but who can get mad at them for curating a vibe? Exciting, melodious, and stylistically compelling, The Radio Goodnight is 37 minutes of pure excitement that might just make you listen again.
10/10
Favorite Tracks: West, The Last Time Was, The Radio Goodnight