MIDNIGHTCHOIR merged his advocacy and political work with his music. Frontman Patrick Bobilin released the LP Loverboy Molotov with ten tracks infused with his far-left values after deciding to move away from the political world. Bobilin said the LP was inspired by the “urgency and energy” of his 2017, 2020, and 2022 political campaigns. He brings a darkwave sound with a deeper message, combining sex, politics, and gothic imagery.
After years away from music and venturing into politics, Loverboy Molotov brings together my aesthetic and intellectual influences to turn my frustrations with the political landscape into something hopeful. In this wild era of disaster, upheaval, and disinformation, maybe communing socially, sexually, or via protest is the only thing left to have hope in.
~ Patrick Bobilin (MIDNIGHTCHOIR)
The LP’s punk-infused, psychedelic R&B style spotlights MIDNIGHTCHOIR’s unique signature sound. It also celebrates the era of ‘80s goth rock, featuring three classic covers: Bauhaus’ “Bela Lugosi’s Dead,” INXS’ “Need You Tonight,” and Depeche Mode’s “Personal Jesus.” The singles are saturated with thrilling electronic beats, a testament to MIDNIGHTCHOIR’s high artistry.
Loverboy Molotov’s focus track, “Rising Tide,” centers on issues surrounding oppressive policies and anti-LGBTQ legislation, with a darker vibe and introspective lyrics.
Transparently, this song is about the rising tide of fascism that aims to strip away the rights of our trans and queer family. It also ends the album on a hopeful note after opening with a worry we need to run for our lives. We’re not going anywhere, we’re going to fight, and we’re going to rewrite the story if we need to.
~ Patrick Bobilin (MIDNIGHTCHOIR)
On lead single “Molotov,” Bobilin divulges the “points of exhaustion” in the modern political scene, questioning if there’s a better way with intense imagery.
A message in a bottle
Shows that we speak their language
Would they get the message
From some property damage?
What if we threw a white hot molotov
Into the window?~ “Molotov”
“The Ghost,” meanwhile, incorporated autobiographical elements. He explores staying true to his values while campaigning — and the subsequent obstacles: “You’re selling out on your own / Now that you know how / To grift the true believers.”
MIDNIGHTCHOIR has been steady in the music scene since 2014. But since then, he’s also run for a seat in the New York State Assembly, been arrested in 2020 during protests, and founded the Manhattan-based Upper East Side Mutual Aid Network. Loverboy Molotov is a powerful project incorporating Bobilin’s protest and political experience, promising much more from MIDNIGHTCHOIR to come.
My goal was to have something to dance to, to march to, and to mend a heartbreak to all in one place.
~ Patrick Bobilin (MIDNIGHTCHOIR)
MIDNIGHTCHOIR said more is on the way, so don’t miss out. Connect with the musician on his website and Instagram.
Featured photo credit to Johnathan Rojas
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