Coming out of the Baltimore scene that’s been so vibrant for the past few years, Lower Dens are fronted by Texas-born Jana Hunter, who came to semi-prominence as a four-track freak-folkie under the tutelage of Devendra Banhart (she was also involved in various incarnations of Castanets, Phosphorescent and CocoRosie, among others). However, the Dens’ sound isn’t exactly what you might expect in light of their frontwoman’s pedigree.
Hunter’s always had an air of professionalism that set her apart from the typically ramshackle style of many in the freak-folk scene. That’s not to say her sound is particularly polished or cynically career-driven; it’s more an effortless talent she has of instantly pulling in the listener. She’s got an aura. And now, with her husky voice in front of a band of moody New Wave enthusiasts — think Beach House’s Victoria Legrand fronting Echo and the Bunnymen — Hunter seems poised to grasp the success that has somehow eluded her thus far.
Following their remarkably assured 2010 debut Twin-Hand Movement on Banhart’s Gnomonsong label, Domino subsidiary Ribbon Music will release Lower Dens’ new LP Nootropics on May 1. One of the first teaser tracks, “Propagation,” is a promising slinky dirge featuring metronomic, lightly-touched drums and halting heartbeat bass high in the mix, with obscure Sonic Youth guitar washes creating a subtle, cavernous soundscape. Hunter’s melody is instantly memorable, with her smoky vocals giving the whole proceeding a distinctly sensual edge. This has a whole lot of potential.