Michigan’s Hot Mulligan returns with ‘And a Big Load’

In their first official release of 2025, Hot Mulligan returns with the familiar pop-punk and emo tones we as listeners have grown to love, in ‘And a Big Load’. 

Following 2023’s ‘Why Would I Watch’, the band have just announced their fourth album, ‘The Sound A Body Makes When It’s Still’, releasing on August 22 via Wax Bodega. Through their consistent releases and familiar, nostalgic sound, Hot Mulligan is on their way to being crowned modern emo heroes. 

‘And a Big Load’ is a punchy, energetic song, fit to become a crowd favourite. It is unmistakably Hot Mulligan, with frontman Tade Sanville’s instantly recognisable vocals powering the track. Alongside these lead vocals, guitarist Chris Freeman takes the mic in the track, and stated that the song is about “the consequences of your own actions,” The vulnerability and introspection throughout gives this song the nostalgic, classic emo feeling that listeners will experience. 

The song begins fast and undoubtedly belongs to Hot Mulligan, with a fast drumbeat, sharp guitar, and, again, Sanville’s vocals. The first verse sees these vulnerable thoughts Freeman spoke of come into play: "All alone, it's just these thoughts and me / Am I ever gonna make things right? / Am I gonna grow up now and say "I'm sorry?" / I take another shot in stride / When you see me throw up now, you won't be sorry". The exposure of these feelings infused within the lyrics, contrasts with the pop punk melody that powers the song.

Through this idea of self-reflection, the lyrics diverge from how the track is sonically, yet blend perfectly: "Still a part of me wants to get better / I know this, I saw him there / In the mirror a decade ago, bleeding, hungry and unprepared". These lyrics coincide with Freeman’s statement of the consequences of our actions, understanding how if we don’t change for ourselves, we may never change at all. Further, at the end of each chorus, Freeman and Sanville are both on vocals, stating: ‘Until I’m gone, I’m just a burden.’ These heartfelt lyrics, combined with the instrumentation, make ‘And a Big Load’ a memorable Hot Mulligan track. 

Despite the somewhat melancholy lyrics, the upbeat music and catchy chorus make this the perfect song for a live show. Luckily, Hot Mulligan are spending a good part of this year on tour – be it American festivals such as Bonnaroo, or later this year when they join Californian emo royalty, Pierce The Veil, on their UK and Europe arena tour. Be sure to catch them! 

Evie Shields

@digievie

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