Grammy-nominated pop artist Mike Posner brings folk-pop, electronic & world music vibes on “Stuck in the Middle,” an advance single from his 2019 LP.

“Here I am again, stuck in the middle.” Incredibly versatile, eclectic singer/songwriter Mike Posner is back.  In 2017, Posner collaborated with his good buddy, blackbear, on their self-titled debut as mansionz – an intriguing, though underrated project. Last we ‘properly’ heard from Posner in a solo capacity, was when he “took a pill in Ibiza” (At Night, Alone., 2016).  2019 sees new music from the distinctively-voiced musician, once more on display on an advance single from A Real Good Kid, “Stuck in the Middle.”

The title “Stuck in the Middle” is pretty common – tried and true – but Mike Posner has some other tricks up his sleeves. The sound of the record isn’t likely what you’d expect, particularly after hearing Posner excel at R&B and hip-hop on mansionz.  Instead, “Stuck in the Middle” has a folk-pop sensibility, as well as incorporating world music and electronic cues which makes the sound quite unique.  Again, it’s a stark contrast compared to the majority of music that Posner has released previously.  Ultimately, it’s successful.

“Stuck in the Middle” is comprised of three verses, all of which keep things brief, with relatively simple language.  Clearly, simplicity seems to be the M.O. for Posner.  Likewise, the bridge, occurring between the second chorus and third verse, is brief. Notably, it contrasts the verses and chorus that precede and follow.  As for the chorus, well, the brevity continues, as aforementioned at the top of the review.

Final Thoughts

All in all, “Stuck in the Middle” is a respectable song from Mike Posner.  Is it as good as the likes of “I Took a Pill in Ibiza”, “Buried in Detroit”, or “Be as You Are”?  The answer is no, but as always, Posner brings something unique to the table.

Mike Posner » Stuck in the Middle [Single] » Island » Release: 11.20.18

Photo Credit: Island