Doug Mishkin’s new single, “Tip of the Spear,” is a declaration. The title track of his latest album seamlessly merges the craft of storytelling with the urgency of a call to action, emerging as an anthem that is both intimately autobiographical and universally resonant.
Right from the opening note, Mishkin has you leaning forward. The melody is dark and thrilling, yet it also manages to be uplifting, a song of folk tradition made new again. His lyrics are often panoramic, allowing the listener to experience both the struggle and the hope of movements for change. There’s a clarity in Mishkin’s voice and vision. Progress is not abstract, progress is sewn together by the brave few willing to step up, and he’s not shy about challenging us to do the same.
What distinguishes “Tip of the Spear” is how it balances inspiration with immediacy. In its structure, you can hear the folk roots, but the song throbs with the energy of someone who wants action now. It serves as a reminder that music can be more than just entertainment, it can also serve as a rallying point, an encouragement to rise, and a mirror reflecting our collective shame.
Mishkin shows that he’s not simply a songwriter, but an articulate activist wielding his craft with purpose. This track lingers long after the music dies down, encouraging us to think, feel, and most importantly, act. At a time when change can feel agonizingly slow, “Tip of the Spear” is a reminder of the power of individuals to start movements and that once in motion, they may not be stoppable.
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