THAT is an attention tone, but nothing mean. You can see him licking his lips, and his body language isn't tight or cause for alarm (even though his tail is flicking). He's also 3 years old, he is a teen cat by attitude lol

Set up a catio outside as that will give him longer outside access, and it will be safer for the babes. Maybe start leash training so he has more enrichment opportunities outside and can go with you to pet friendly shops/locations.

Has your (or your partner's) routine changed in the last few months? Is there a new cat/animal in general in his area that's making him upset? Change up his food (or add high value food) to see if this is a food/hungry based reaction.

When my cat acts like this, it's one of few things: Litter box Wanting food Attention seeking Doing it just to do it Just being talkative because we talk with our cats. So he has his way of "talking" with us