Longwave "Endsongs" (Recordings) - review by fan
By Adam
In my continuing mission to fill everyone in on the music that I feel they are missing, I think that a very important place to start is with a band that just may be on the verge on making it big.
Longwave is a band from New York City, and has been together for about 3 years, which is just enough time to generate a large buzz in the burgeoning NYC indie scene. Also enough time to create a wonderous debut album which has recieved only great reviews. So here is one more...
"Endsongs", (Luna Sea Records), captures the listener from beginning to end with catchy hooks, great guitar playing, strong songwriting, and amazingly vibrant production quality for an independant band (or for any band for that matter).
The first track, Escape, begins with a heavily effected guitar (ring modulator, among other things) which smoothly transforms the entrance of the band. Next comes the vocals, which are softly sung over a catchy guitar hook. Crescendos are abundant in this song, just as with the rest of them. The lyrics are far from angry, far from trite. Crafted to be interwoven with the music. Everything works together quite nicely. As the song progresses more layers of guitars are added, with more effects. This song sounds as if it simply floats from the speakers as it builds and fades in waves. A great opener, which introduces the new listener to what the rest of the album has to offer.
Next up is Best Kept Secret. The delayed guitars bounce back and forth from left channel to right channel. Once again the chorus comes in on a massive crescendo that is almost too big for any room. Ebowed feedback and punching bass are very present in this track, as is the very violent guitar solo (reminiscent of Radiohead). Pretty Face is the single, break-out potential song. Very sing-along inviting type lyrics. A straight forward rock track with punching bass, very meaningful lyrics and tight drumming.
To avoid repetition, I will leave the album at that, and finally state that it has been compared endless times to Television's "Marquee Moon" album. There is your sneak preview.
This is definitely an album that you would have to hear to completely enjoy, obviously. It is comprable to some music that is out there. You will not find any of the rage, evil, and depressionistic gloom that is on most modern American releases. Instead you will be reminded of more British, pop music. Steve, the lead singer/guitarist/songwriter seems contemplative, reminiscent and awe stricken.
The album has the ability that so few albums have these days, and that is the ability to make you FEEL. You will be moved, charged up, things that don't happen when you listen to the usual dark dismal garbage that the record industry pumps out.
A few small asides about Longwave. They are currently the opening act for The Strokes (who also have a fab album out) and are glowing in the larger crowds that accompany their new found success. Speaking of live, even after you hear "Endsongs" you have not had the entire Longwave experience. The live show that these guys put on is nothing short of amazing. The energy, the ability of the players, it all works together. Bands do not feel the music like these guys feel it. I am surprised that they don't pass out after every show!! Simply amazing.
Well that is it. Now go get the album. It is available at any one of the various on-line record stores. Check it out, I can promise you that you will not be disappointed
