Skittish’s new album “Midwest Handshake” is a charming folk-rock record that evokes nostalgia for the American Midwest. Though Skittish is currently based in Los Angeles, frontman Jeff Noller grew up in Minnesota and those roots shine through in this music. Inspired by 1960s sounds, the album bathes contemporary emotions in a retro sonic palette. Lush orchestral flourishes echo Noller’s experience working in film, while the lyrics tackle timeless themes like social division, relationships, and the allure of home.
Tracks like “Home Team” and “Are We There Yet” exemplify the push and pull between idealized memories and hard realities. Noller’s smooth vocals lend a glossy sheen as he sings about navigating life’s challenges. Other highlights include “Second Act” with its gentle sass and the catchy guitar-driven “Lowlifes.” The diversity of styles, from piano ballads to pop-rock, makes the album feel like a rewarding playlist. Ultimately “Midwest Handshake” is a testament to the friction caused when our nostalgic vision of home meets the present day. Skittish has crafted a complex and satisfying folk-rock record perfect for listening while longing for the comforts and simplicity of the past.
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