Citizen Returns to Its Roots: “Highs and Lows” is a Guitar-Driven Masterclass

If there is one thing Citizen has mastered over the last decade, it’s the art of the pivot. They’ve spent years dodging expectations, moving from the moody, atmospheric depths of Youth to the polished indie-pop of Life in Your Glass World. But with their latest single, “Highs and Lows” the band feels less like they’re experimenting and more like they’re finally coming home.

Taken from the album Calling The Dogs, “Highs and Lows” is a loud, unapologetic reminder that at their core, Citizen is a powerhouse rock band.

The Power of Five

The most immediate change in this era is the physical scale of the band. Citizen has officially expanded to a full quintet, bringing in former touring members Ben Russin (drums) and Mason Mercer (guitar) as permanent fixtures.

You can hear the difference immediately. There’s a new kind of muscle in the rhythm section and a density in the guitar work that only comes from having three players layering the sound. It doesn’t feel cluttered; it feels massive.

Stripping Away the Noise

Citizen has always had a knack for “singalong” anthems, but “Highs and Lows” strips back the production tricks to focus on raw energy. It’s a track that bridges the gap between their quietest ballads and their most distorted rock anthems.

What makes it work is that familiar, gritty emotional core. Mat Kerekes has a way of making personal turmoil feel like a communal experience, and here, the songwriting is as passionate as ever. By leaning into a more straightforward, guitar-driven style, the band allows the song’s natural energy to do the heavy lifting.

Why It Matters

In an era where alternative music often leans heavily on synths and digital polish, Calling The Dogs feels like a breath of fresh air. It’s a return to what they do best: rock ‘n roll that hits you in the chest.

“Highs and Lows” isn’t just another single; it’s a statement of intent. Citizen is louder, fuller, and more focused than they’ve been in years. If this is the direction they’re headed, we’re all in for a wild ride.