Lower Dens is a Baltimore-based band led by songwriter Jana Hunter. The origins of the group begin with Hunter’s last tour as a solo act, leading to the realization that their problem wasn’t being on the road, but the solitude that comes along with being a solo musician. Hunter's backing band was hired on full-time after the tour, leading to the founding of the group and their first record Twin-Hand Movement. The album was a reverb-heavy guitar-based effort, but by 2012’s Nootropics the group began to integrate synthesizers into their sound, which was shifting ever closer to Beach House than Diiv. 2015’s Escape From Evil was their second record for Domino imprint Ribbon Music, and a well-received step even further into an 80’s inspired vibe. Lower Dens has reconfigured to a duo of Hunter and multi-instrumentalist Nathaniel Nelson, giving the songs a more direct, immediate feel. The Competition considers the “socio-psychological” impact caused by the violence of capitalism and the free market. “Young Republicans” is a sarcastic takedown of the titular morons over Eno-esque glam synth minimalism, “Real Thing” is electric synth stabs and heatbeat kick, delicate guitars and fluid, pleading vocals, suitable for a John Hughes-esque montage. “In Your House” is rim-played snares and electric piano, a concise moment of vulnerability that rounds out the album. This LP is pressed on indie exclusive crystal clear vinyl and includes a digital download. 

• indie exclusive crystal clear vinyl pressing
• high-gloss sleeve
• digital download included
• limited edition
• music label: Ribbon Music 2019

reviewed by kris TBA 09/2019