An album with a little bit of something for everyone is bound to yield success. This is no exception for Ohio indie rockers Ledges on their debut release, Homecoming. The prominent eclecticism stems from influences like The 1975, Foals, and From Indian Lakes. But don’t allow these influences wash out the band’s uniqueness. Homecoming cultivates the specific Ledges sound: relaxed guitar leads incorporated with notes of 80s synth pop (and incredibly pleasing layered vocal harmonies). Because of this, we expect to see Ledges on all your favorite playlists.
Homecoming combines reflective lyrics with upbeat instrumentation, while following a character through his or her story. If you’re the contemplative kind of person who stares out the window on long drives, let this album accompany you. The first single “All Right” is filled with doubts and uncertainties while admitting, “Can’t stop feeling like I’m drowning in a cold sweat.” We all feel stuck and lost. We question beliefs, thoughts, people, ideas, and life in general — and we’re never alone in that. “Nothing to Say” is the admittance of infatuation at first sight (rather than love at first sight). The simplistic piano melody sets the tone as the words reference the first meeting of someone, feeling overwhelmed with emotion, and believing they are the answer to your problems. It’s this raw, yet simple honesty that makes this album feel like home.
The slow, piano-driven ballad “Snow” offers a heartfelt confession, “Our love is like the seasons; we fall apart, but we will grow back again.” The atmospheric guitar riffs set a nostalgic tone, which is perfect for the changing of the weather. Front man Andy Hoffman digs a little deeper in the final track “Please Come Home.” Following the trend of the first few tracks in their doubts and questions, Hoffman admits, “I’ve tried so hard to make sense of you. The cross I cling to destroyed my youth.” This song, being a reflection of all the band’s thoughts and experiences, is the honest struggle with love and faith.
The album is an equal amount of big moments and quiet reflections. Homecoming tells a story you can either separate yourself from and just enjoy the music, or you can use it as your own source of personal introspection. Either way, you will find every track on the album to have something worthwhile to offer. The emotional, yet intricate delivery is why Ledges connects with everyone who listens to the album.
Stream the album below and tell us what you think:
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