The I-94 Bar's Top Tens are about to roll-out and you'd be surprised if both this year's releases on I-94 Bar Records didn't make the grade for The Barman's picks.

A couple of months ago, we posted a track-by-track by Chris Masuak of "Address to the Nation" by Chris Masuak and the Viveiro Wave Riders. Now it's Mick Medew's turn to walk you through "Open Season", the long-player from Mick Medew and the Mesmerisers. 

It's a killer album of pop, power and melody and if you don't believe us, check out the reviews here. 

The words below belong to Mick Medew, the photos are by Jeff Ram.

* * * * * 

“Imaginary Friend''
This song was principally written by our guitar player, Brian Mann. He wrote the lyrics to the first verse and I found it easy to run with his theme. 

I grew up in inner city Brisbane in the 1960's and ‘70s where there was plenty of exploring to be done and no security guards in sight.  I have one Sister (11 years older than me ) so i was effectively an only child for a lot of the time. At least it felt like that.

I needed to apply my imagination; necessity being the mother of invention.

_{Lois, Michael, Mick anbd Brian. Jeff Ram photo.}

''Something's Going On''
This song is about falling in love (first date) I wrote the lyrics and Brian wrote the music.

“Sun”
Track 3 keeps it anthemic and up-tempo and you can hear the American influence. It's all over these tracks.

“Sweet Dreams'' and ''Exile on Boundary Street” 
Your 40’s can be a tricky time for a lot of guys in involved in music . Exile on Boundary street mirrors the same situation, except by this time I am back home. 

“Thin Line''
Friendships…marriage…family relationships: They sometimes don't mix well in a working musician’s life. It can be a monumental juggling act and all you can do is learn as you go. 

"Open Season"
Got people trying to shoot you down ? Ever feel like like it's “Open Season'' every fucking day ? I've got my career back and I am happier now than I have ever been. That is the best revenge!

''No More Monkeys"
This song was written by our drummer Michael Charles. I think I should let Michael explain this later as the lyrical content is sensitive, although it's a great good-time dance song, favoured by Community  radio as it now turns out.

“Deep River” 
Brian wrote the music and I wrote the lyrics. They follow the same sentiment as “No More Monkeys”.

“Why Did I Fall In Love With You''
Singing about my 40’s again. Better get a grip!

You can buy "Open Season" here. Connect with Mick Medew & the Mesmerisers on Facebook here.