If there’s anything funny about the title of The Michael Character’s new album, it’s that there’s any sort of question as to whether singer/songwriter James Ikeda would actually pop a wheelie given the opportunity.

After all, his sometimes-full band, sometimes-solo folk punk act has become known over eight albums for their acerbic songs paired with a gleefully aerobic live show. Although you might partially know Ikeda as one of the few acoustic-playing songwriters not opposed to the occasional crowdsurf, Wheelie? is both as heartfelt as it is socially aware.

Packing pointed observations on society (the chorus of “Celebrate” rhymes ‘systemic racism poisons our institutions’ with ‘globalized markets ensure widespread financial ruin’) alongside candid takes on age in the DIY scene (lead single “26” calls to sing with Ikeda acknowledging ‘ageism is real’ and ‘you’re feeling old’), Wheelie? just might be the most conscious feel-good record of the summer.

The Michael Character will be going on a national tour from July 7th to August 2nd in support of Wheelie?, but we’re very happy to premiere the album today in full. Check out the stream below (complete with artwork from Louis Roe of Squishy Sandwich Art) and, for more information on the album, head to TMC’s Bandcamp.