The Long Count

Recorded with Mike Roche at Broadside Studios in Kalamazoo, S.O.L.A.R. (short for Songs Of Loss And Regret) is the debut release from The Long Count, a band made up of members who currently live in Grand Rapids, Chicago and Los Angeles, yet still manage to record and play shows together. Considering this lineup of ultra-proficient and experienced musicians – singer/multi-instrumentalist Randy Hughey, bassist Rodney Johnson, saxophonist/keyboardist John Saunders and guitarist Gary Hebert (all formerly of 256), along with drummer Scott Hickok (of local bands Bowery and MOTO) – one might expect S.O.L.A.R. to be a boastful showcase of technical ability and complex arrangements rivaling Dream Theater. Instead, The Long Count’s members display incredible maturity and restraint by presenting almost the exact opposite: a 10-song collection of sparse, down-tempo introspection with emphasis on emotive, creative songwriting largely based on the less-is-more theory. And damned if it doesn’t work. Lead-off track “Breakaway” balances instantly memorable vocal melodies and delicate arrangements that float the listener into a soft, comfortable cloud that demands repeat visits. Song themes bounce between somber, peaceful and playful, all the while preserving a focused, almost fragile feel which in turn allows enough space for placing emphasis on perfect arrangement and tonality of instrument and voice. Learn more about this intriguing project at thelongcount.com.–CF - Recoil Magazine