Tim Heidecker – High School Review

Multitalented performer Tim Heidecker is full of surprises. It is hard to chart where exactly the comedian and musician moved from explaining the horrors of overdosing on WaitMate with Jeff Goldblum to charting introspective, lush pieces of folk-Americana to give a look into his past. High School is just that. An immediate push for his country tip-offs and manoeuvred with sincerity. It served him well on the Weyes Blood collaborations of Fear of Death. His warm vocal presence on High School is the surprise those that know of Heidecker for his comedy works should prepare for. A voice filled with Randy Newman influences, an openness on level with Frank Turner. At what point does the consistent musical output from Heidecker stop being marked by the word “surprising” considering his comedy roots? 

Nostalgic interpretations on opening track Buddy give way to losing touch with someone close. Heidecker marks one of many experiences here that listeners will no doubt have experienced. But his perspective is open and welcoming, an inviting series of tracks that cement his talents for the introspective poetry of the country genre. Smooth, warm acoustic guitar work is the constant for this album. It gives way to some brief funk on Chillin’ in Alaska, but the formation of folk rock always presents itself. Those echoed tones on Future Is Uncertain cement the strongest and weakest part of Heidecker’s album. Fear of Death pushed on with pop country experimentation and while there are moments of inspired pieces throughout High School, much of it feels like a stripped-back selection of standard country messages. 

Those messages are handled well. Heidecker is a convincing frontman with clarity pushing him on. Get Back Down To Me is the switch. Changing form, harsher electrics and a louder presence on a track all about missing feelings and longing. I’ve Been Losing has that shimmering country charm to it, but deep within it shows the clarity and formation of Heidecker’s lyrics. Contemplation of looking back on the best days, a move toward the pivotal final stretch and all the regret country music makes it so lush to listen to. What High School loses in experimentation it gains in maturity and longevity for Heidecker’s skilful presentation. Punch in the Gut is an obvious fight reflection but lands a softer blow than first expected. Contemporary country strips are found in fine form here. 

Heidecker has come a short distance from his Bob Dylan satires and innovations for satirical music. His playing style and well-coupled instrumentals that back his lyrical power has served him for a long while. High School is a comfortable listen. Concepts of adolescence are formed perfectly well but lack that gut punch Heidecker hints at on Punch in the Gut. He charts his life so far with intimacy, from the first embers of songwriting on Stupid Kid to the formation of influences thrown around so well on High School. Sincerity from his high school days are charted openly by Heidecker. He follows that direct line, the influences and experiences that shape adulthood with a firm clarity. For those of the same age, it comes as a warm embrace. For younger listeners, High School serves as a stern warning for what is to come. Sirens of Titan fire the alarm bells off. Equal purposes are fed by Heidecker and come through with consistent reflections.