Breaking Away by Mario Millo: A Retro Gem That Still Kicks
Alright, let’s talk about Breaking Away, the 1983 album from Australian artist Mario Millo. Released under Wheatley Records, this little slice of pop-rock history doesn’t scream for attention—it kinda whispers with a cheeky grin. And honestly? That’s what makes it stick.
First off, you’ve got the title track, “Breaking Away.” It’s one of those songs that sneaks up on you when you least expect it. The opening riff is pure ‘80s gold—think big hair, neon leg warmers, and maybe a mullet or two (no judgment). What gets me every time is how smooth Mario’s vocals glide over the melody. There’s no over-the-top drama here; just solid craftsmanship and a vibe that says, “Hey, life might be messy, but we’re all breaking away from something, right?” I mean, who can’t relate to wanting to bust out of their own personal fishbowl?
Then there’s “People Like Us,” which hits different. If “Breaking Away” feels like an anthem for dreamers, this one’s more of a shoulder-shrug soundtrack for anyone who’s ever felt a bit… ordinary. But in the best way! The lyrics are relatable without being cheesy, and the guitar work has this laid-back swagger that makes you wanna tap your foot while pretending you’re too cool to care. Spoiler alert: you’re not fooling anyone, but hey, at least you’re having fun.
What really stands out about this album is its unpretentious charm. It doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel—it just rolls along nicely, leaving behind some catchy tunes and good vibes. Sure, it’s not perfect. Some transitions feel a tad dated, and yeah, a few moments could use a bit more oomph. But isn’t that part of its appeal? This isn’t some slick, modern production designed to go viral. It’s real, raw, and refreshingly human.
Reflecting on Breaking Away now, decades after its release, I can’t help but think about how music used to feel more personal back then. These tracks weren’t made for algorithms—they were crafted for actual people, sitting in their bedrooms or cruising around in cars with dodgy cassette players. And maybe that’s why albums like this still matter. They remind us that even in a world obsessed with shiny new things, there’s beauty in looking back—and breaking away from the noise once in a while.
Oh, and fun fact: Mario Millo probably had no idea his music would end up being reviewed by someone typing furiously in pajamas in 2023. Life’s weird like that.
