Shortwaving, the new EP by John Calvin Abney, explores themes of communication and perseverance through haunting country-rock sounds.
John Calvin Abney has returned with Shortwaving, a five-track EP steeped in haunting country-rock textures and introspection. Released via Tin Canyon Records, this marks Abney’s first project since 2022’s Tourist and his recovery from a vocal injury that sidelined him from touring and recording in 2023.
Recorded at Secret Studio in Columbus, Ohio, Shortwaving reunites Abney with a live band for the first time since Safe Passage. Co-produced by Lydia Loveless, who also contributed background vocals and handled engineering, the EP reflects a cathartic creative process. “Having my voice back after surgery and rest, it felt like these tracks came from an ancient part of me that I haven’t spoken to in a long time,” Abney shares.
Lyrically, Shortwaving explores the struggle of sending signals into the void and the hope found in perseverance. On the title track, Abney sings, “Swim the shortwave / Cutting in and out / I’m losing strength in these hills,” evoking the isolation and determination at the heart of the EP. The music echoes this sentiment with ghostly slide guitar and droning minor chords that give the tracks a meditative quality.
The EP’s closing moments, like the triumphant chords of “Truckee River Blues” and the delicate guitar in “Supporting Actor,” offer glimpses of hope amidst the static. Abney’s ability to find humanity and resilience in solitude shines throughout.
Shortwaving is available now, and Abney will embark on a North American tour in 2025 to support its release.
