Winston Hightower has a new album on the way. The Columbus lo-fi institution will release 100 Acre Wood in April on K's Perennial imprint. That's the same label that gave us Sharp Pins, but Hightower's version of lo-fi is not so obviously Beatles-y. Local forebears Times New Viking's scrappy, melodic art punk is a reference point, but the record isn't bathed in static. Several melodies remind me of the New Pornographers, who also announced a new LP today, but stripped down to the studs and haunted with the ghost of Daniel Johnston. Sometimes, when he hits the falsetto, I'm reminded of a ragtag Moses Sumney.
As for lead single "Lay Low," it's a mesmerizing ballad that may be about the end of the world. "When it goes, you'll know/ 'Cause we won't be here anymore," Hightower sings, somehow turning the prospect of our future annihilation into an adult lullaby. Watch Jolie M-A's video for the song below.
TRACKLIST:
01 "Moonside"
02 "On Our Own Time"
03 "Blum House"
04 "Virtue Signaling"
05 "Help Is On The Way"
06 "High School"
07 "Lay Low"
08 "Selfish Soother"
09 "Poppi"
10 "The Me I Know"
11 "Me Time"
12 "Beyond The Thicket"
13 "Fight For Frequency"
14 "Circling The Dream"
100 Acre Wood is out 4/17 via K/Perennial. Pre-order it here.
