Lucy Fitzgerald 
Favourite Kid’s debut album “2 Cents Journal” arrives with a warm, open-hearted spirit. From the start, the trio creates a relaxed atmosphere built on pop, country, and folk-rock foundations, driven by glowing melodies, acoustic textures, and a gentle rhythm section. The whole project feels inviting, shaped by the kind of honesty that doesn’t need to be loud to leave a mark.
Across twelve tracks, “2 Cents Journal” focuses on the small but meaningful moments that fill everyday life. The songs examine breathing room, self-awareness, and the imperfect paths we follow as humans. Ethan Roberts writes with sincerity and a light touch of humour, opening the door to his own neurodiverse experiences and the ongoing balancing act of living in a world that often celebrates constant positivity. His songwriting brings together reflection with a bright energy that lifts the album from start to finish.
Some tracks feel like gentle love letters, while others take a more candid look at mental health and inner tension. Ethan shares that writing helped him slow down and understand his thoughts more clearly. He describes the album as a way to notice how he is feeling in a busy world that can make people feel like they always need to appear amazing or compare themselves to those around them. There is a refreshing honesty in the way these ideas appear across the record, offering comfort without overexplaining.
Instrumentally, the album stays grounded and warm. Full-bodied acoustic guitar anchors most of the songs, while harmonies rise and fall with an effortless grace. Steady drums, bass grooves, and hand percussion tie everything together with a gentle pulse. Electric guitar lines wander through moments of reflection, capturing emotion in real time. Occasional bursts of horns brighten the arrangements and add a restorative glow. Each track feels carefully shaped yet loose enough to breathe, giving the record a natural flow that matches its emotional core.
Listening to the album, I personally connected with how calm and genuine it sounds. It’s the kind of record that quietly settles in, offering comfort without asking for anything in return. I found myself replaying certain parts because they made my day feel lighter than I expected. If you’re discovering Favourite Kid for the first time, this is a great moment to join their journey. Make sure to follow the trio on their socials and keep their music close. Add “2 Cents Journal” to your playlists and let these heartfelt songs find a home in your everyday listening.
Listening to songs so you don’t have to! Just kidding :D, you totally should. Music blogger by day, nurse by night
