American Football - American Football (LP4)

Recorded during a 10-day retreat at Panoramic House in Stinson Beach, CA, LP4 finds the band intentionally walking into the abyss, themes of divorce, upheaval, and uncertainty are at the forefront. Yet the band sounds more engaged and legitimized than ever before. Opening track “Man Overboard” showcases each member’s strengths: the unmatched style and jazz swing of Lamos’ drumming, the lyrical vulnerability and multi-instrumental mastery of both Kinsellas, and Holmes’ signature guitar work, all swirling together like a shoegaze tornado as the guitars and bass surge into something twisted and warped.

Other standouts like “Blood On My Blood” showcase the band’s unique use of alternating time signatures, while “Bad Moons” (the longest track the band has ever recorded) includes some of Kinsella’s most intense lyrics yet. The album also features guest vocals from Turnstile’s Brendan Yates (“No Feeling”), Wisp (“Wake Her Up”), and Rainer Maria’s Caithlin De Marrais (“Blood On My Blood”).

LP4 is an ambitious artistic statement from a band that continues to push the boundaries of genre and culture. It’s a gorgeous and elaborate album, one that takes its time to reveal its beauty while hinting at the darker parts trying their best to stay hidden.

Genre: Alt Rock / Post Rock