Rochester surf-rock outfit Harmonica Lewinski released their newest album, SUPER HOT, on November 24. Recorded in analog style on a Tascam reel-to-reel machine, the album showcases 12 tracks with a fun groove and creative tone.
Harmonica Lewinski formed in 2012 in Rochester. The group cites a distinct blend of surf-rock, disco, and punk that inspires their new EP. Since their first release, Good Vibes/Bad Vibes released in 2012, the five-piece band has dropped eight full-length releases, with SUPER HOT marking their first since their 2021 EP Lost Weekend.
Largely focused on instrumentals, SUPER HOT marks an investigation of funky, groovy disco-rock beats. The album was recorded on a Tascam reel-to-reel machine, an analog tape recorder that dates back to the 1980s.
A key track on the record, “Burgundy Bandit” is a groovy, methodical track to open the album. Led by the commanding bass line and meandering guitar melodies, the track introduces Harmonica Lewinski’s style and strongly holds listeners’ attention for its four and a half minute instrumental run.
“Shadow Sequence,” the fifth track on SUPER HOT, diverts slightly from the groovy, meandering tone that the majority of the record follows. Beginning with an alternative, syncopated rhythm, the vocals are reminiscent of an excitable Orville Peck. The track is relatively short with only two minutes and change, but is certainly a strong point in the EP.
Finally, “Cakewalk” is introduced by a solo bass line supported by a steady, rhythmic drum kick and vocals. Again, this track is only about two minutes, but after a few listens the guitar melody will get caught in your head.
SUPER HOT is a proficient review of funky, bass-driven surf rock. Though many of the tracks get lost in each other due to similarity in overall sound, this doesn’t detract from the clear skill and fun listening experience from the whole album. SUPER HOT is available on all streaming services and Harmonica Lewinski on BandCamp.
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