Christian Miller - Things I Don't Do In Public

Christian Miller

Things I Don't Do In Public
self-released; 2016

3.6 out of 5

By Jamie Funk

Christian Miller is an artist from Virginia who recently released Things I Don't Do In Public. Miller got an ample amount of musicians from a commune he lived in to help contribute to this album. It’s a fun collection of songs that are well-written and quite humorous. He sings about everything from a Sasquatch to Grandpa being dead. The album is DIY on the lo-fi side.

​He opens with "Short Bus" which has the feel of a children's song. The song revolves around banjo, handclaps and some hyperbolic singing. It’s pretty catchy the first time you hear it. A sense of humor weaves into the songs as the album progresses. I was initially a bit scared hearing “Sasquatch” as it starts with some harsh distortion. The song feels silly right off the bat from the lyrics. Miller sings, “I’m the last undiscovered primate species / I smell kind of bad like I sleep in my own feces.”

“Grandpa’s Dead” isn’t nearly as morbid as it sounds. The song is given plenty of levity from the playful lyrics and music. There are a couple of really funny lines on this one. I forgave the banjo playing that got a bit sloppy at points. “Stone Baby Blues” is a lo-fi rock-a-billy song while “I’m Not A Racist” may be poking a little fun at progressive liberals. “I’m Not A Racist” also features orchestral strings that sound quite good in the mix. 

Miller goes on to sing about Sylvester Stallone on “Sly Stallone.” The song goes into detail about Stallone’s movie career. It’s super silly and is one hundred and ten percent about the lyrics. Miller continues to go off in spectacular fashion on the remaining songs. I thought the title track was a standout. The wordplay is top notch like on the other songs but I thought the music and mix sounded quite good on this track as well.

Things I Don't Do In Public is an album that can put a smile on your face. Miller’s sarcasm is infectious and the music feels effortless and carefree. I’m not sure I would consider this everyday listening but there is certainly a time and place where this album will fit the mood. Recommended.

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