Labels: self released
Review by: MH
Much excitement was caused when I heard that Sebadoh had recorded some new songs for the first time in 14 years. They were one of my favourite bands growing up. They have released some of my favourite albums and recorded a few songs that I would consider to be amongst the best I have ever heard or at least that meant a hell of a lot to me growing up and still do. My attention towards them wavered a little on the last couple of albums but no matter. I have a recurring conversation with a couple of friends every so often about just how good the song “Soul and Fire” actually is. The conversation is generally full of outrageous statements and ridiculous hyberbole. Similar conversations occur about “Brand New Love” too although some of them rave even more about Superchunk’s cover version. Like I say, this band means a lot to me. These 5 songs were put up recently on their bandcamp page and are not going to be on their forthcoming album. I wondered if they would be some throwaway or sub-standard songs that were just put up to remind us they still exist. How wrong could I be? These songs are fantastic. There are 3 written by Lou Barlow and another 2 written by Jason Loewenstein. The opening track kicks off with some upbeat drumming and as Lou Barlow’s gentle vocals come in I am transported immediately back to the early 90s. The lo-fi elements are still there and the guitars have that familiar fuzzy Sebadoh sound. The sound is updated for sure so it sounds of the now but it is 90s music at heart. “Arbitrary High” is magnificent – classic Sebadoh, and is a superb indie rocker full of twangy guitars and Barlow’s understated, restrained vocals and personal lyrics. They may well be recreating an old sound but that is more than fine by me. Jason Loewenstein contributes a twangy indie rocker and also a melancholy, countrified pop song on here called “I Don’t Mind”. There are none of the slower, sadder songs on here but it’s just great to hear some new material. If these songs are anything to go by, the forthcoming album is going to be an absolute cracker.