Thomas Mills - Hit or Miss (Compilation: Second Birthday Edition)

Prior to its official release, Thomas Mills personally asked me to review this compilation of unreleased songs to the public with the intention of never officially releasing it. Recently, for whatever reason, Mills had decided to release it. In comparison to its fantastic counterpart, Chicken/Egg, there is certainly a decrease in the quality of songwriting; however, Mill’s whimsical personality and irresistible charm is as strong as ever. Suffice to say, I am glad he released this compilation to the public.

Among the highlights is the desirable Happy, a beautiful instrumental. Mice and Cheese is hilarious, though more importantly musically competent. Grazing adds fantastic dynamic to the album’s tracklisting, as does Krambi and Stuck. Among the filler are undeniably messy songs; I am Bored is sloppy, Everybody Clap Your Hands is nonsensical, Scrapman is rather stale, and 2019 is plain; nonetheless, each song adds ingenious flair to the already strong track-listing. Even the closer, Happy Birthday, sounds fresh and innovative compared to the most conventional melody ever.

There are certainly more hits than there are misses on Hit or Miss; had Thomas Mills developed these ideas into something more tangible and fleshed-out, it would have stood among his greatest works. The album contains the psychedelic pop-joys of the Beatles, without ever feeling restrictive of pop conventions – this is mostly due to Mills’ winning personality and senseless stereo-placement/layering. If you’re a fan, give it an ear.

Above Average

Listen to it here:

https://thommills.bandcamp.com/album/hit-or-miss-compilation-second-birthday-edition

Thomas Mills - Hit or Miss (Compilation: Second Birthday Edition)