As winter drags on and low temperatures make warmth feel out of reach, Mikernan Arrell, singer, songwriter, and producer brings the heat to his listeners with his new music.
With a delightfully unique approach only a Portland, Oregon-based artist can deliver, Arrell has released his latest EP, On My Travels, at the end of January. This three-track EP displays a range of tastes, mixing genres like alternative rock, folk punk, and even dipping into some Celtic sounds for good measure.
Kicking things off is the titular track, “On My Travels.” High-pitched alternative electric guitar riffs over a banjo bring in that traditional roots-meets-rock element, simultaneously blending the two genres. The placement of this track being first makes sense, as this piece is a reflective exploration, and could be interpreted as Arrell’s self-awakening to life.
The second track on the EP and a personal favorite, “Plastic Bags,” confronts the irreversible damage humankind has done to our oceans. With a bright strumming guitar, he uses playful yet earnest lyricism like, “What are the fishies to do?” that pairs social consciousness and humor. This song really leans into that Celtic folk-punk element, using terms like “Oi!” shouted and scattered throughout, evoking the lively comfort of an Irish pub on a late night.
Wrapping up the brief but mighty EP is “The One and Only Micka.” This also Celtic-leaning song is character-driven, based around a leprechaun, the one and only Micka. Arrell focuses on the mythical and the absurdity rooted in Irish tradition, and he has an almost cheeky tone in his dialect, making you feel like a kid again, hearing a magical story in delightful song.
Coupled with his prowess as a songwriter and musician, Arrell also owns and operates Splinter Studio, an independent record label and artist network founded in 2023, uniting like-minded creators while releasing his own music.
Mikernan Arrell delivers a seamless attack at weaving different genres, moods, and instruments together to blend consideration and playfulness. This three-track EP may feel fleeting from the needle drop, but its exciting demeanor leads listeners further to see what this unique artist might have next for us.
