The Long Afternoon - Signifying Nothing

The Long Afternoon, originally formed as an indie rock group in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania in 1985, have had a curious history, with an ever-changing line-up, the prospect of a Bulging Eye release, and the members going their separate ways in the late 80's.

Lead vocalist/guitarist Eston Martz, inspired by the fact that "not only did the Velvet Underground reconvene to perform, but Mission of Burma and Wire also emerged from retirement — and didn’t just emerge, but resumed recording compelling, dynamic music that neither rehashed nor diminished past glories" and witnessing a final live concert of Television, revived the spirit of the Long Afternoon with the addition of Greg Elliott (drums) and Jeff Edmunds (bass) and released first full-length album The Luxury Problem in 2006, with this year's LP release Signifying Nothing recorded 2007-2009.

The Long Afternoon provide updated jangle rock for a new era, with smartly crafted songs. "Elinor Murphy" (listen here!) comes crashing in as the first track.

The Feelies-esque tracks like"Building" and "She Fell" and softer tunes "Goodbye to All That" and "Sermon" serve as examples of the Long Afternoon's adaptability, which grows further throughout the course of Signifying Nothing. "Using Dream", a personal favourite of mine, is awash in rolling waves of guitar and light melodies. "Never Tell" and "Shift" take the album through a cool, moody turn. Title track "Signifying Nothing" (listen here!) perfectly encapsulates the Long Afternoon sound.

"That's Just the Way It Happened" and "Yr Happy Girl" come off as punchy live tracks. "Intent" and "Blacklight District" grunge up the vibe, while the final trio "Spencer Patrol", "How Did I Get So Far From Where I Should Have Been", and trippy "Bother" end the album sweetly and somber. A big-time, clever and refreshing highlight of the 2009 releases I have heard so far- now go and...
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The Long Afternoon - Official Site | on CDBaby