Album Review: Center Of The Universe by Andy Susemihl – A Funky, Rockin’ Joyride
Alright, let’s talk about Center Of The Universe, the 2019 brainchild of Andy Susemihl under SM Noise Records. This album is like that one friend who shows up to a party wearing mismatched socks but somehow pulls it off with swagger—equal parts rock grit and funky soul vibes. If you’re into music that doesn’t take itself too seriously while still packing an emotional punch, this one’s for you.
First up, the title track “Center Of The Universe.” Man, this song hits different. It kicks off with a groovy bassline so smooth it feels like sliding into your favorite pair of worn-out sneakers. Then BAM!—the guitars come in, all raw and crunchy, like biting into a perfectly cooked burger. What sticks with me most? The chorus—it’s catchy as hell, but not in a cheesy way. More like, you find yourself humming it at random moments, like when you're stuck in traffic or pretending to be deep during awkward silences. There’s something oddly comforting about how Andy blends big existential themes (you know, being the center of everything) with such laid-back energy. Like, sure, life’s chaotic, but hey, here’s a tune to help you float through it.
Another standout is… well, okay, I’ll admit, I don’t have the full tracklist memorized because apparently my memory isn’t what it used to be. But there’s this other banger—I think it’s called “Funky Escape” or maybe “Soul Revival”? Whatever its name, it’s got this sax solo that just leaps outta nowhere and punches you right in the feels. Not literally, obviously; more like a warm hug from someone who smells faintly of patchouli. You can tell Andy wasn’t afraid to let loose on this one. The rhythm section locks in tighter than your grandma’s grip on her knitting needles, and honestly? It makes you wanna dance even if you’ve got two left feet.
What I love about this album is how unapologetically human it feels. Sure, some tracks are rough around the edges, but that’s kinda the charm. It’s like Andy said, “Screw perfection—I’m making art,” and I respect the heck out of that. Listening to Center Of The Universe feels less like putting on headphones and more like crashing a secret jam session where everyone’s vibing together.
So yeah, give this album a spin if you’re craving something real. And hey, fun fact: after listening to it three times in a row, I started wondering if maybe I’m actually the center of the universe. Spoiler alert: I’m probably not. But thanks to Andy Susemihl, I felt like it for a little while.
