the Woods - So Long Before Now (2023) (Hi-Res)
FLAC (tracks) 24bit-44.1kHz - 570 MB
49:48 | Folk, Indie Rock | Label: Dot Matrix Recordings
FLAC (tracks) 24bit-44.1kHz - 570 MB
49:48 | Folk, Indie Rock | Label: Dot Matrix Recordings
Predominantly known as the musical genesis of eventual home 4-track folk pioneer Linda Smith, The Woods’ organically experimental blend of folk style and pop sensibilities epitomize 80s NYC underground music. Included here is their lone 1985 single plus a full album’s worth of previously unreleased recordings and a zine-style insert filled with liner notes and ephemera. The Woods are often associated with New York’s post-punk scene, a designation that may ring true in the sense of their DIY ethic but in a musical sense is far too simplistic. The band is as informed by the harmonies of 70s British folk music as they are by the droning minimalism of the Velvet Underground. Their pop sensibilities run deep, and their noisier and experimental moments seem to be rooted more in the desire for artistic dramatic effect than anything that could be considered punk. The complexity of their harmonies and penchant for melody are really what sets the band apart.