Review by Luci Scott
Released 25 July
Hopeless Records
After more than a decade as one-fourth of 5 Seconds of Summer, Michael Clifford steps out from behind the curtain with SIDEQUEST, a bold and deeply personal debut that proves he is more than ready to stand on his own. This record is not just a solo project, this is him fully stepping into his own as an artist. The same colourful-haired guitarist who once tore up pop-punk stages is now a father, a producer, and an artist with something to say. SIDEQUEST is not just an album, it is a soundtrack for outsiders, overthinkers and anyone who’s ever felt a little offbeat in their own skin.
The album opens with ‘Kill Me For Always‘, featuring Porter Robinson. As the first track, it sets the tone for the emotional and sonic landscape ahead. With sweeping synths and a blend of yearning and surrender in the lyrics, it feels like a curtain being
drawn back on the real Michael, inviting us into his world. It is dreamy, melancholic and cinematic in all the right ways.
The second track, ‘Cool‘, feels like a cheeky wink to pop punk nostalgia, but instead of sounding like a throwback, it captures that feeling in a totally new frame. The production sparkles and Michael’s vocals carry a confidence that makes even the most ironic lyrics hit with real sincerity.
Then comes ‘Give Me a Break!‘, featuring Waterparks’ Awsten Knight, and it is an absolute blast. This is one of the most fun tracks on the album, and you can tell the collaboration was a good time from the get-go. It is explosive, bouncy and chaotic in a way that just works. Michael and Awsten bounce off each other with real chemistry, capturing the spirit of two friends just letting loose in the studio. It is an easy highlight, whether you’re screaming along in your room or blasting it with your windows down.
But where SIDEQUEST really shines is when it leans into raw vulnerability without losing its energy. ‘Remember When‘ is a perfect example. It feels soft and nostalgic
without dragging. There’s a warmth here that brings to mind the golden era of bands like All Time Low or 5SOS’ earlier albums, but it also brings something new to the table. It tugs at the heart without asking for pity. Instead, it offers a reflective moment that feels like a quiet exhale after years of noise.
And then there is ‘Enough‘.
This track is, without question, one of the emotional core pillars of the album. From the first few seconds, it is clear that Michael has stripped everything back to something raw and honest. The vocal performance is among his best to date. You can hear the weight behind every word. The song builds with gentle tension, and when the chorus hits, it doesn’t explode, it aches. This is the kind of track you find yourself replaying because it says what you’ve never quite been able to. It is vulnerable without being weak, and powerful without trying too hard. It is the standout.
‘Fashion‘ follows and dials the energy back up without losing the emotional thread. There is something about the groove of this song that feels instantly familiar. It
recalls the self-titled 5SOS era, but it is not a copy. Instead, it is a confident evolution. There’s a little bite to it, paired with a sense of fun that gives the album a well-timed jolt.
‘Thirsty‘ is another strong moment. This one is a softer entry too, but it is where Michael’s voice absolutely shines. The vocal layering and harmonies are lush, and the lyrics are deeply vulnerable without becoming vague. It is easy to imagine this becoming a radio staple. It fits well with current trends in emotional indie-pop, but it stands out with its sincerity and clarity. There is no attempt to be cryptic here, which makes it hit even harder.
‘Nosebleed‘ lives in the in-between space. It plays like a diary entry set to music. If you are a fan of “sad boy anthems” with thoughtful lyrics, this will be right up your alley. But it is also deeply personal and unmistakably Michael. There is nothing forced here. It is brooding, reflective, and intelligent without being too heavy.
‘If I Had a Choice‘, featuring Ryan Hall, is a beautiful sonic journey. The guitar tones alone are stunning, but it is the vocal chemistry between Michael and Ryan that makes the track soar. It is the kind of song that feels made for late-night drives in the rain, where streetlights blur and lyrics feel like confessionals. It is moody and cinematic in all the right ways.
Closing track ‘Eclipse‘ wraps the album up like a love letter. It is short but heartfelt. The production is simple but warm, and the chorus is the kind of hook that will linger long after the track ends. It is a soft goodbye, the kind that feels more like a memory than an ending. Listening on good headphones at full volume, you’ll catch the little sonic details that elevate it even further. It is not trying to be the biggest track, but it might just be one of the most meaningful.
What really makes SIDEQUEST work is that it never feels like it is trying to prove anything. It is not a rebellion against 5SOS and it is not a desperate grab at solo stardom. It is just Michael, making the kind of music he loves, with the emotional and creative freedom he’s always wanted. It is equal parts playful and poignant, messy and meticulous, and that is exactly what makes it so compelling.
Throughout the album, there is a deep sense of maturity without losing the curiosity that first made Michael fall in love with music. You can feel the influence of becoming a father, but it never feels preachy or overly sentimental. Instead, it feels grounded. There is still a lot of kid in Michael Clifford, and this album lets him bring that energy to life while balancing the weight of real growth.
Whether you have followed his journey since 5SOS‘ early YouTube days or you are coming in fresh, SIDEQUEST is worth your time. It is not about chasing a new identity. It is about embracing all of them.
Rating: 10/10
Buy/Listen to SIDEQUEST here
Michael Clifford – SIDEQUEST tracklisting:
1. Kill Me For Always (featuring Porter Robinson)
2. Cool
3. Give Me A Break (featuring Awsten Knight)
4. Remember When
5. Enough
6. Fashion
7. Thirsty
8. Nosebleed
9. If I Had A Choice (featuring Ryan Hall)
10. Eclipse
