The Soundtrack To Moving On (Kind Of)

A Review of Role Model’s “Kansas Anymore (The Longest Goodbye)”
Role Model’s deluxe edition of Kansas Anymore (The Longest Goodbye) is an emotional journey wrapped in folky, country-infused pop. Real name Tucker Pillsbury, the singer based in LA first released an EP in 2017 and is now taking the industry by storm. His most recent album captures heartbreak, growth, and eventual resolution in a way that is both memorable and easy to return to. This unconventional pop album brings an upbeat but almost sombre tone to late-night listening and car singalongs.

The original Kansas Anymore was released in July 2024 as Role Model’s second studio album, marking a shift into folk-pop, country-pop, and indie folk territory. The deluxe edition was released on Valentines Day this year, a day that goes hand in hand with the album’s breakup themes. The album introduces new tracks that enhance the original album, providing additional depth and authenticity.

 Listeners encounter both familiar songs and fresh perspectives, making it a thoughtful expansion rather than a collection of leftovers for fanciful fans.
The production emphasizes free-flowing instrumentation, including layered guitars, emotional vocals, and occasional country elements, especially in “The Longest Goodbye”, but is overall balanced with accessible pop themes. 

The most popular song of the album with over 104 million streams as of last Friday, “Sally, When The Wine Runs Out”, brings an upbeat energy that contrasts the album’s more wistful melodies. Role Model has invited celebrities such as Kate Hudson and Natalie Portman to join him on stage to perform this track, adding a communal, celebratory dimension to his live shows, moments that always seem to go viral on TikTok. 

The final track, “The Longest Goodbye,” is stripped back with only voice and acoustic guitar, creating an intimate atmosphere. This combination of energetic and reflective tracks makes the album suitable for both quiet evenings and more lively listening moments.

At its core, the album tells a breakup story. It navigates through pain, longing, nostalgia, and acceptance.

“Old Recliners” evokes nostalgia, reminding listeners of past relationships and the memories that linger, whilst “Some Protector” deep dives into the tension between holding on and letting go, making it feel like a personal diary entry – a personal favourite of mine. Role Model presents heartbreak as a series of ups and downs, clearly reflected in the album’s jumpy songs with melancholy tones at times, juxtaposing the idea that a person never really knows where they stand after a heartbreak.

I can say however that throughout the album the theme is very tightly adhered to, not presenting the listener with much variety or escape from the heartbreak strain we often come across in American pop music.

This album blends heartfelt storytelling, warm instrumentation, and contemporary pop. The deluxe edition’s additional tracks enhance the narrative rather than feeling like extras, providing moments of both comfort and emotional insight. Its versatility allows for repeated listens and offers a meaningful connection to listeners’ own experiences. Kansas Anymore (The Longest Goodbye) succeeds in creating a space where listeners can reflect on heartbreak and personal growth while appreciating how relatable this album is.

Critics praised Kansas Anymore as a progression in Role Model’s songwriting, highlighting its emotional honesty and the development throughout the album. The deluxe edition was welcomed for adding depth and closure to the original release. 

Fans particularly appreciate the added tracks such as “Sally, When The Wine Runs Out” that have become extremely popular at live shows. For me, it’s not an everyday album that I can’t stop listening to, something that will be put in the ‘Hall of Fame’ in my head, but it is certainly a great listen when you’re in the right frame of mind. Overall, both critics and audiences view the album as an emotionally engaging, thoughtfully produced record that balances reflective storytelling with pop hooks.

Kansas Anymore (The Longest Goodbye) offers memorable melodies, honest lyrics, and a clear emotional arc. Listeners will find both comfort and catharsis within its tracks, making it a compelling addition to any playlist.

7.5/10 from me

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