Long Distance Calling or LDC is a post-rock band from Münster, Germany, formed in 2006 releasing their debut LP Satellite Bay the following year. The majority of their tracks are extended instrumentals. LDC are one of the most internationally successful instrumental rock bands from Germany. They have created unconventional and unique music that is progressive and versatile with just an occasional guest singer. I have mainly followed the band since they moved to InsideOut Music and released two good albums: TRIPS (2016) and Boundless (2018).
Now LDC's seventh studio album is entitled How Do We Want To Live?. The album contains ten new songs, which all contain classic LDC-Trademarks that create an atmosphere and a vibrant environment. The band dedicate a whole album to the subject of artificial intelligence. So it's no surprise that there's quite a few instances of electronic sounds. But interestingly, it still sounds organic and not robotic or forced. That characteristic is brought from the opening two-part track "Curiosity". Featuring a lot of voice samples and electronic music elements, part 1 reminds me of a mix of Vangelis' Blade Runner score mixed with Dream Theater's "The Great Debate". Part 2 evolves to one of the recurrent themes of the album, 'a modern version of Pink Floyd', specially post-Waters era. That is obtained by the electronic elements, coupled with slide guitars generating this overall Floyd-ian vibe (think A Momentary Lapse of Reason). The 3rd single "Immunity" video includes footage shot by fans community during the Covid19 pandemic. And even if all songs were already done before the craziness we are living in, the album, and this song in particular, do reflect the mixed feelings of hope and optimism with angst and fear of today's world. It's a very powerful video.
The album also visits some of the traditions that were demonstrated on their first albums. That includes different tools and ideas, for example "Voices" goes from its electronic first half to melodic guitars arpeggios under choral-like female vocals. Or the strings used in "Fail / Opportunity". And in one track, “Beyond Your Limits”, vocals and lyrics were added. They are sung by Eric A. Pulverich of the band Kyles Tolone. It's a nice touch and reminded me of a Phil Collins song. On the more upbeat side of the album we have another single "Hazard" which brings us to an 80's sound, mainly driven by the drumbeat. It's a very nice song. So is "Sharing Thoughts" which is one of the best songs on the album. The fantastic drum and guitar work makes it a stand-out.
Overall despite being an instrumental band, LDC four members work for the music and not to show off themselves. By doing so they create this dynamic wall of sound that is very emotional and atmospheric. It's certainly unique. Despite lacking the powerful singing of TRIPS and concluding the album with a lack of a "wow factor", How Do We Want To Live? is another good album from LDC giving the past two albums a run for their money. For old timers and lovers of instrumental indie/post-Rock music, this album is sure to please you.
SCORE: 80/100
Genre: Post Rock
Released by InsideOut Music on June 26th, 2020
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Rating System*
99 - 100 Perfect
94 - 98 Excellent
87 - 93 Great
82 - 86 Very Good
77 - 81 Good
66 - 76 Mixed
58 - 65 Bad
* slightly adapted on May 24th, 2020 due to statistical review
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