Folk-rock artist Medium Build has released a new album that marks a turning point in his career and personal life. Titled “King of Having Fun,” the record emerged from a period of intensive recovery after Nick Carpenter, the musician behind the project, confronted serious struggles with alcohol and the pressures of sudden fame.
Carpenter’s rise accelerated significantly in 2023, when a collaboration with X Ambassadors charted, followed by performances at Coachella and a tour supporting Tyler Childers. However, the constant touring and mounting opportunities took a severe toll. The artist found himself accepting every support slot offered, ultimately turning to alcohol as a coping mechanism. “Halfway through” his first headline tour, Carpenter recalls, “the drinking caught up with me.” The situation reached a crisis point while he was touring in Australia in late 2024, prompting him to contact his manager with an urgent message about the need for change.
After entering recovery, Carpenter began writing much of “King of Having Fun” just three months later. The album represents a significant departure from his previous work, recorded with his full touring band and producer Paul Rogers rather than in makeshift home studios. The 15-track collection reflects themes of sobriety and self-discovery, blending rock, country, and blues influences while remaining rooted in folk music. The title track directly addresses his journey, with Carpenter reflecting on lost innocence: “Since when do I need other shit to fall asleep? I used to be the king of having fun.”
Originally reported by Rollingstone →
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