Lucy Fitzgerald 
Man, “Backseat Driver” by Malibu Blackout grabbed me from the first chord. That gritty, fuzzy guitar tone feels like you’re barreling down a dusty road with the sun setting, and then boom, the vocals hit with this raw, upbeat energy that just pulls you in. They mix surf-punk riffs and desert rock swagger so well it feels like they’re painting a cinematic road trip in your brain as the song plays. The lyrics are clever without being cheesy, with descriptions of backseat conversations, small wonderings, and that iconic sense of being both curious and rebellious in the back of a moving car.
It’s personal in a way that doesn’t feel overwrought, with snapshots of youth and nostalgia that make you grin without forcing emotion. The band did all the writing and performing themselves, and you can tell: it’s heartfelt, gritty, and full of energy. And here’s my long-winded but honest take: I like this song so much and think everyone should have it in their playlist because it brings that juicy mix of edge and heart and it deserves the replay treatment all day every day.
If you’re into sharp riffs, a touch of western-surfer flair, and lyrics that feel both adventurous and intimate, “Backseat Driver” is a blast to listen to. Definitely keeping Malibu Blackout on my radar after this.
Listening to songs so you don’t have to! Just kidding :D, you totally should. Music blogger by day, nurse by night
