For fans of anthemic songwriting, indie rock’s soaring highs, and the earnest vulnerability of bands like Manchester Orchestra, Winnetka Bowling League, and Hippo Campus, Michigander is about to deliver the perfect sound to your car singalongs and late-night reflections. With his first full-length album, Jason Singer—a Michigan-born, Nashville-based indie troubadour—elevates his craft, blending heartfelt optimism with shimmering power-pop choruses.

The past decade has seen Michigander steadily rise from the Midwest’s indie rock to become a beloved voice in modern alternative music. Known for his heartfelt EPs—Midland (2018), Where Do We Go From Here (2019), and Everything Will Be OK Eventually (2021)—Singer has amassed over 100 million streams globally. Tracks like “Misery” and “Let Me Down” became indie anthems, showcasing his knack for weaving emotional depth into driving melodies.

NPR encapsulated his appeal perfectly, praising the “optimism and vulnerability” that make his music one of indie rock’s most compelling stories. That duality—the balance of hope and melancholy—is at the core of his debut album.

“The last 10 years were awesome,” Singer reflects. “Everything built up to this point. The EPs were like television episodes of my story, and the album is the movie version. It’s blown up on the big screen. I’m just getting started, but this is my introduction to the world.”

The album opens with “Broadcast,” a stirring introduction that sets the tone with lush instrumentation and a cinematic scope. Tracks like “Emotional” and “Peace of Mind” showcase his knack for anthemic choruses, while “Giving Up” leans into introspection without losing its uplifting energy. The poignant “Letterman” and the energetic “Break Box” are standout moments, offering rich lyrical storytelling paired with vibrant melodies.

“Spitting Image” and “I’ll Be OK” resonate with raw honesty, while “Important” and “Episode” remind listeners why Singer’s music feels like an intimate conversation. The album closes with the reflective “Socialite” and the nostalgic “Hair,” leaving fans with a sense of hope and renewal.

Singer’s authenticity has made him a sought-after live performer. Sharing stages with the likes of Silversun Pickups and Pete York, as well as gracing festival lineups like Lollapalooza, Michigander has built a reputation for connecting deeply with his audience. His self-titled debut album feels like the culmination of these experiences—a culmination that also hints at exciting new chapters ahead.

Michigander’s music is tailor-made for fans of earnest storytelling and rousing indie rock. Whether you’re singing along with friends on a roundtrip or quietly finding solace in his lyrics, the album is sure to leave a mark. The blend of power-pop energy, heartfelt lyricism, and Singer’s signature optimism creates a collection that feels both deeply personal and universally relatable.

More than a debut, Michigander is a declaration of identity. It’s a love letter to perseverance, creativity, and the people who’ve supported Jason Singer on his journey. As the final notes fade, one thing becomes clear: Michigander isn’t just singing his story—he’s writing the soundtrack to the lives of many.

Mark your calendars for February 7, 2025. You’ll want to be there when Michigander hits the big screen.