Low Line Caller

Hi Def Soft Core

Dipping into its genesis as an instrumental post-rock mammoth, local quintet Low Line Caller bubbles up in texture and ambience throughout sophomore EP Hi Def Soft Core, a catchy blend of decades brought to fruition by newest addition Marc Ferrino’s vocals. It’s the perfect title for LLC’s sound: dark and pretty, a brush of shoegaze with modern touches. Analog synth sounds permeate opener “Built Over Gasoline,” Chronicle contributor Josh Rosenblatt’s drums the constant drive behind the flutter. “Over the Counter Kids” and “Anderson Junction” read 1980s England, but when the tide rises in the shadow-ridden context of “Heartstrings Playing Notes” and closer “Thief,” LLC’s mood-setting talent shines. Low Line Caller isn’t looking to rewrite indie rock history, keeping its goals short and simple. With the evermore-impressive Erik Wofford behind the scenes, Hi Def Soft Core floats in its own space. (CD release: Friday, Oct. 3, Mohawk.)

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This article appears in September 26 • 2008.

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