Come Back Down＜限定盤/Yellow　Vinyl＞

New Jersey shoegaze quartet High. have been at it since 2021 and Come Back Down is their debut release for Kanine Records, following a limited three-song cassette EP sold on tour. The bands songs generally stick to a well-established template of blaring guitar fuzz set to a druggy midtempo sway, often swelling up for a big, anthemic chorus. High. seem at their best when theyre more sentimental and melodic. The very Souvlaki-sounding "Catcher" feels more heart-on-sleeve than most of their other songs, clearing some of the noise out to express statements like "lost without you" and "Ill give anything to touch you." "Lifetimes," with a hazy and catchy "its time to go" chorus, leaves the biggest lasting impression. "Flowers" is the EPs most optimistic and uptempo tune, encouraging listeners with a reminder that "it takes a while." Other songs plunge deeper into feelings of alienation and fear, particularly "Dead" and "Painbox." "Bomber" is deeply melancholic, portraying the emotional fallout of a failed relationship. High. definitely seem focused and determined -- they know exactly what sound theyre going for and they do it pretty well. Come Back Downs standout tracks are certain winners, and the record makes for a welcome introduction to the band. ~ Paul Simpson