Folk-rock tunesmiths The Longwalls expand their sonic foundations on this excellent eight-song EP. The production is warm and spacious with banjos, mandolin, and pedal steel used sparingly and effectively. Kowloon’s guitar hooks and country-rock touches are awash in texture. Swooshing synths, guitar fuzz, and reverb give the album a forlorn feel that's most pronounced on the moody opener, “Vassa,” plus “Maybe Golden” and the downtempo groove of “Woods Pretty.” "Big MT,” “Long for Shipwrecks,” and “Liberty Bell” showcase The Longwells' pop sensibilities while maintaining a melancholy atmosphere. The title track splits the difference, starting with eerie electronics and building to a jangly finish. The folky closer “Bring Me Peace” is the most straightforward track here, a lazy sing-along propelled by upright bass and pedal steel. This is a solid fourth release by a Boston band that deserves a wider following.
More By The Longwalls
- 2015
- 2021
- 2010
- 2011