When you first hit play on Mk.gee’s latest album 'Two Star & The Dream Police,' you’re greeted by muddy production, clashing seconds later with gentle chords on the piano. It intentionally leads you into a false sense of security and unpreparedness when the crashing instrumental and electronic mix becomes fully realized. And then, within seconds, Micheal Gordon (Mk.gee) lets you know that this album will demand your full attention - and you’ll be happy to provide it.

The third full-length LP from Mk.gee thoughtfully expands upon his prior work, most notably showing off his skills as a producer and multi-instrumentalist. With his guitar especially, he jumps between a range of clear and distorted tones throughout the record. It explores a range of genres within the 33-minute run time, drawing on signifiers from rock, electronic, R&B, pop, psychedelic, and alternative styles of music. It would be limiting to try and place Mk.gee’s work within the confines of a single one of these genres. 

As he navigates through the flexible sounds explored, each song effectively tampers with space - both within the mix and, consequently, the atmosphere created. On "You Got It," vocals are used as an instrument, blending at the same volume with the others on the mix. And on "DNM," the mix in the chorus is fueled by distortion, while simultaneously, precise and poignant piano keys are methodically pinging, creating a full and robust sound. The production is intentional and thoughtful, despite how fluid it manages to sound too. 

The persistent combination of synth-heavy instrumentals and electric guitar creates a dream-like atmosphere for listeners. And, while the electronic elements of this album often make it feel futuristic and other-worldly, there is nostalgia within the sound too. Distorted guitars on a track like "Alesis" and obscured vocals throughout the album are reminiscent of 90s shoe gaze, while the synths featured on the softer songs like "I Want" and "Breakthespell," distinctly emulate the feeling of an 80s pop song. As a result, the album is able to take listeners to a place where time feels as if it is no longer linear, and space becomes boundless. 

Mk.gee’s vocals also have an opportunity to shine through amidst the buzzing production. Live performances recorded of "Dream Police" and "Are You Looking Up" highlight Mk.gee’s range and natural rasp, which could be buried on a first listen-through of the recorded versions. This vocal quality is paired with lyricism that explores themes of love, longing, faith, escapism, and purpose, grounding the listener within the humanity of the project amidst the ethereal production. 

Dijon also makes two credited appearances on the album as a producer on "New Low" and "DNM." Mk.gee played a vital role on Dijon’s 2021 LP 'Absolutely' by providing backing vocals and instrumentals. Unsurprisingly, the two continue to work incredibly well together. Genre-bending and filled with experimentation, they both make music built on instinct and trust, both within each other and themselves as individual artists.

The album comprises bold choices and risks that could feel uncomfortable for listeners at first. However, it comes together like pieces from different puzzles that somehow, all fit perfectly together. It’s ethereal, messy at times, methodical, and impulsive. Perfectly chaotic and cohesive, this project solidifies that Mk.gee is operating in a lane that he continues to pave for himself.