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LA RECENSIONE
The Low certainly represent the band that more than any other has managed to bring the so-called "slow-core" to life, a movement characterized by slow, expansive songs, played in an apathetic and depressed manner. The album in question is their unforgettable debut in LP format, dated 1994. The means employed are minimal, and almost always the backbone consists of the languid guitar chords, unfolding like the solemn chimes of a clock of the soul, creating at times an almost ascetic atmosphere, of great suggestion.
The singing seems almost like a prayer, so collected and intimate. The air that one breathes is not sad, there is no sense of suffering, the sensation is of a spiritual catharsis, of a cosmic mourning, timidly drawn by the instruments, creators of this existentialist canvas.
A shining example of this philosophy is the opening "Words", as delicate as a caress, slipping away each time without fully savoring it. "Slide", wonderfully sung by drummer Mimi Parker, seems to possess a more hallucinated quality, given by a liquid and enchanting guitar. The hypnotic "Lazy" bases its charm on a circular guitar theme. "Lullaby" is the longest track on the record, and if we want, also the most "complex". The initial declamation by the singer, almost a cappella, gradually gives way to a splendid funereal guitar theme, with a vaguely psychedelic flavor. A masterpiece, perhaps not placed in the center of the album by chance.
The dreamy "Down" is another gem of rare beauty, as is the disorienting requiem of "Cut". To bid us farewell, awaits the sweet lullaby of "Sunshine", the only glimmer of hope, almost an elegy to love, moving in its simplicity.
A record of absolute value, it deserves to be savored in total silence, of which it could be defined as the ideal soundtrack.
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Summary by Bot
Low's debut album 'I Could Live In Hope' is a foundational slowcore work defined by minimal, languid guitar chords and intimate vocals. The record creates a spiritual, contemplative atmosphere rather than sadness. Standout tracks like 'Words', 'Slide', 'Lullaby', and 'Sunshine' showcase its hypnotic and dreamy qualities. The album is praised as a masterpiece and ideal for quiet, focused listening.Tracklist Videos
Low
Low were an American indie rock band formed in Duluth, Minnesota, known for their early slowcore minimalism and later turns toward more experimental, electronics-forward production. Core members Alan Sparhawk and Mimi Parker (who were married) anchored the group’s sound; bassist Steve Garrington is also featured in these reviews. Mimi Parker died in 2022, and Hey What is widely described as the band’s final album.24 Reviews
Other reviews
By lux
'The album tells a story in a depressed manner, but it doesn’t always narrate depression.'
'Low HAD to sound a certain way, like we have to win the gloomy band of the decade award. No, that doesn’t sit well with me anymore.'
By rushgino
Low has perfectly merged their music with an external component like electronic music.
Ones and Sixes is an enveloping album that cradles the listener in sweet lullabies alternating with strong pop-inspired jolts.
