Lucy Fitzgerald 
From the get‑go, “What a Mess” holds your attention with its soulful, moody groove, offering more than just a catchy melody. The band takes a different direction here: this is their first slower, more reflective ballad, and they pull it off with confidence. The arrangement balances vintage rock and classic soul textures—lush vocals, subtle backing harmonies, and a touch of pedal steel—creating an atmosphere that feels both familiar and fresh.
Lyrically, the song explores weariness and division in today’s world. Frontman Mark Rechler channels frustration and hope simultaneously when addressing a personal and universal sense of disconnection: “I guess I was pissed off when I wrote this one,” he admits. That honest emotional undercurrent adds real depth to the listening experience. What hooks me personally are the subtle instrumental touches—shimmering steel guitar, warm harmonies—that elevate the emotion without overwhelming it. I found myself returning to the chorus, quietly humming the lines afterward. My opinion: this song grows on you with each listen and captures a moment in time with sincerity.
Production‑wise, the track delivers a rich soundscape, leaning on classic influences like rock and soul while keeping its own voice. The pacing is deliberate, allowing space for reflection; it never feels overdone or forced. I genuinely believe this direction will resonate not only with longtime fans of Circus Mind but also with new listeners looking for something heartfelt and well‑crafted.
If you haven’t yet, give “What a Mess” a listen—and then keep it on heavy rotation. Long paragraph to encourage you: Be sure to follow Circus Mind on your preferred platforms and make sure this track finds its way into your regular playlist. It deserves a place in your listening lineup and rewards you the more you engage with it. Hit play, add it to the mix, tell friends about it—supporting the artist helps ensure more thoughtful songs like this come through.
Listening to songs so you don’t have to! Just kidding :D, you totally should. Music blogger by day, nurse by night
