Enter the Kingdom

Frontier Ruckus invite us to 'Enter The Kingdom', but whether this kingdom is one of musical bliss or utter chaos remains to be seen. The Michigan-based band serves up a sprawling feast of Americana-tinged folk tunes on their latest offering, leaving listeners simultaneously bemused and intrigued. Frontman Matthew Milia's distinctive vocals take center stage, weaving intricate tales of love, loss, and the strange quirks of small-town life. His lyrical prowess is on full display throughout the album, with lines like "I'm a lonesome shadow on a Milwaukee platform" showcasing his knack for both vivid storytelling and heartfelt introspection. Musically, 'Enter The Kingdom' is a mishmash of styles that shouldn't work together but somehow do. From the jaunty banjo plucks of '27 Dollars' to the melancholic strings of 'Our Flowers Are Still Burning', Frontier Ruckus keep us on our toes, never quite settling into one genre for too long. However, this constant genre-hopping can be both a blessing and a curse. While it keeps things interesting, it occasionally leaves the listener feeling a bit disoriented, like they're lost in a musical wilderness with no clear path to follow. Overall, 'Enter The Kingdom' is a bold and ambitious effort from Frontier Ruckus, showcasing their knack for storytelling and musical experimentation. While it may not be for everyone, those willing to take the plunge will find themselves rewarded with a journey through a musical landscape unlike any other. Just don't forget your compass.