Super Low by Warehouse

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In 2016, Athens, GA-based quintet Warehouse released their sophomore album super low in deliberate all lower-case lettering. The band mixes the ragged, course vocals of lead singer Elaine Edenfield with the tight and melodic backing of guitarists Alex Bailey and Ben Jackson, bassist John Hughes, and drummer Doug Bleichner. A prime example of this infectious mixing of college rock and post-punk sound lies within the title track of the album.
Just over three and a half minutes long, “Super Low” is a thick groove that first suspends listeners with intertwining bass and guitar lines, setting them free with Edenfields vocals. Her voice ranges from howling to muttering, but is constantly reminiscent of women like Ari Up of the Slits and Siouxsie Sioux. The track seems to find resolution after a toxic relationship of the past, “I can’t destroy the things that keep me alive/ And I can’t destroy the things that lead to where you lie.” A strong sense of desperation is also present to accompany the uncertainty, Edenfield pleading the line “Give me in completely,” indicating hopes of a new future. The verses and choruses seamlessly flow through one another, making it hard to keep track of which is which. This jumble echoes the confusion of the speaker’s mind: knowing an answer of solution, but struggling to come to terms with it.
The subtle intricacy and flow of the music is a perfect backdrop to the difficult topic of discussion, making it not seem so earth shattering or scary. Both guitarists use their strings as methods of communication, creating a dialogue that aids the conflicting lyrics. The mixture of smooth instrumentals and jagged vocals transcends the band past the blanket-term art rock generally given to them.

The full sound of Warehouse envelops listeners wholly, making it impossible not to nod your head along as it wraps you in a blissful, greuling, confidence.  


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7tgQS8BnlZ0


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