We’d love to summarise ‘Tip of the Spear’ in a few words, yet such an album is not built around a specific theme or thread, rather focusing on its author’s charismatic storytelling and meaningful observations. Paying attention to the complex reality around him, Doug Mishkin is simply a faithful observer, translating some of society’s most complex issues and painful events in musical form. Of course, social justice and an overall call for the world’s betterment are ever-present reminders in Mishkin’s lyricism.
That said, every song in ‘Tip of the Spear’ deserves its space. Built on the American troubadour’s typical folk and early rock influences, the album is rather nostalgic and timeless, taking us back to the glorious era of American folk heroes, think Tom Paxton and Phil Ochs, among others. Packing twelve songs, the record is certainly eclectic and liberating, especially from a sonic standpoint.
The listening experience is hypnotising, empowering and perhaps inspiring, calling for everyone to stand up against the many idiosyncrasies of our current times. From joining movements for change, to reflecting on troubling events (such as the January 6th insurrection), ‘Tip of the Spear’ contains “songs that tackle the public crises of our time with conviction, and songs that look inward with honesty and compassion” – as Mishkin explains.
Recommended! Discover ‘Tip of the Spear’ on Spotify:
