A year on from the release of his critically acclaimed album New Ways, singer-songwriter Leif Vollebekk returns with a two-song EP, Long Blue Light. The title track, which we’re focusing on here, is a brand new original. Whilst, the second track is a cover of Bon Iver’s “29 #Strafford APTS”. It’s equally beautiful, so be sure to check it out too.
Recorded back during the sessions for New Ways “Long Blue Light” was all but abandoned by Vollebekk. Initially recorded with just Homer Steinweiss on drums as accompaniment, Vollebekk found himself returning to the track over and over again this year: “I added some overdubs and had Cindy Cashdollar finish it off with a gorgeous dobro part. It was supposed to fade out but I rather liked how it just falls apart at the end.”
As we’ve come to expect from the Canadian, “Long Blue Light” is a beauty. Largely understated and introspective, with an ever-present touch of melancholy, the single slowly beguiles its listener over its approximately three minute run time. The dobro from Cashdollar really pushes it another level, bringing extra texture and an emotional quality to the piece. Whilst, Vollebekk’s vocals remain a real drawcard.
“Long Blue Light” makes me want to dive back into that back catalogue, and that can never be a bad thing.
Long Blue Light is out now via Secret City Records / Remote Control. Buy it HERE. You can keep up to date with Vollebekk via Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Header Image: Vanessa Heins.
