Album Review: Mike Viola - Hang On Mike

There are many musicians out there who are said to be underrated and unheard - if I could name one, Mike Viola would be my personal number one.

Hang On Mike was released in 2004. It brings up stories from his boyhood ("Superkid"), finding his love ("What To Do With Michael"), troubles of touring and a musical career ("Unexpected Traffic", "Hang On Mike"), family ("Let's Have A Baby") and quite personal, sad and tragically times ("Charlie" and "Painkillers").

"Hang On Mike" cover

Hang On Mike ends with the fabulous "Hunker Down", which lays bare the insight of a musician.

There is a lot of struggling all over the record about being a musician resulting in his final statement: "If there's one thing you're good for, it's another song."

Mike Viola manages it like no other to put serious topics together with catchy and upbeat melody.
I have to warn you: this music is addictive! If it gets you it may never leave you again!

The Candy Butchers live at Joe's Pub in 2004

 

Hang On Mike was remastered in 2010 - only on 180 gram gatefold Vinyl with digital download and 27 bonus tracks (demos, live stuff).