Stephen Becker has long been a fixture in New York’s indie rock scene, known for his exceptional songwriting and versatility as a multi-instrumentalist. His impressive resume includes collaborations with acts like Katie Von Schleicher, Vagabon, Rubblebucket, Strawberry Runners, and Caroline Says, showcasing his wide-ranging musical talents. Over the years, Becker has also carved out a dedicated fanbase with his solo work, earning praise from outlets like NPR Music, The FADER, and Under the Radar. Now, he’s back with the announcement of his highly anticipated second full-length album, Middle Child Syndrome, set for release on October 25 via Record Euphoria.
The lead single, “I Held an Echo,” encapsulates the essence of Middle Child Syndrome, delivering it in a widescreen, cinematic fashion. Drawing from the rich indie-psych traditions of Sufjan Stevens’ Age of Adz and Grizzly Bear’s Veckatimest, the track explores the disorienting experience of searching for meaning in the present, while seeking guidance from the past. Becker’s glitchy production touches bring the song’s dreamlike imagery to life, as he navigates the complexities of rising above oppressive life patterns and battling self-doubt. Lines like “I felt my body turn to wind then become solid/I woke up mumbling” capture the surreal struggle to hold onto moments of transcendence within the mundane.
As with other tracks on the album, “I Held an Echo” doesn’t shy away from difficult memories, with a moment of familial conflict interrupting the flow of the song. Becker’s poignant and infectious songwriting reflects the ongoing challenge of finding—and maintaining—those fleeting glimpses of transcendence amid the banality of everyday life. Middle Child Syndrome promises to be an evocative journey through these themes, further solidifying Stephen Becker’s place in the indie music landscape.