Total Control – Songs Inspired by TV Series "Total Control" cover

Total Control – Songs Inspired by TV Series "Total Control"

Missy Higgins · 2022

21 min · 6 tracks · rock music

A vibrant collection of rock-driven anthems that intertwine emotional depth with the thrill of cinematic storytelling.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Watch Out Start here — This opening track sets a powerful tone with its driving rhythm and insightful lyrics, encapsulating the album's thematic exploration of vigilance and awareness.
  • →
    Total Control — As the title track, it serves as a culmination of the album's narrative, blending catchy hooks with poignant reflections on power dynamics.
  • →
    Big Kids — This track stands out for its introspective lyrics that address the struggles of adulthood while maintaining an upbeat tempo, representing a key emotional pivot in the album.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

46 /100
Foothills
Higher than 10% of albums we've rated

The EP showcases solid songwriting and emotional engagement but lacks standout production or lasting impact.

What we noticed

  • The first three tracks build momentum with driving rhythms and layered instrumentation, while the fourth track introduces a more subdued arrangement.
  • Each song features a strong chorus that contrasts with introspective verses, creating a dynamic push and pull throughout.
  • The EP closes with a gradual deceleration in tempo, allowing for a reflective finish that differs from the earlier energy.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
6/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
5/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • concise storytelling with emotional depth
  • energetic tracks for quick bursts
  • reflective moments amidst lively pace
  • suitable for focused listening sessions

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer lengthy immersive experiences
  • seek slower, more contemplative sounds

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Late Career Highlight — Shows continued creativity and engagement after a brief hiatus.
Career context
By the time Missy Higgins released 'Total Control', she was already an established artist, known for her emotive songwriting and chart success. This album marked her return to music after a brief hiatus following her previous release in 2018, showcasing her ability to compose songs inspired by the themes in the TV series 'Total Control'.
Stylistic neighbors
Lisa Mitchell· Sia· Natalie Imbruglia

Tracklist

  • 1 Watch Out Start here 2:58
  • 2 The Collector 2:52
  • 3 Edge of Something 3:33
  • 4 Total Control 5:35
  • 5 Big Kids 3:46
  • 6 I Take It Back 3:07

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata