For almost twenty years – with the exception of two cover albums – there was no new music from the Lemonheads, who have had a significant influence on US indie rock since the late 1980s. Most recently, one had the impression that only the younger generation was still familiar with Pavement from this era. But that’s not the case: The Lemonheads have already been covered by acts like Courtney Barnett and Waxahatchee.
Editorial recommendations
On the comeback album LOVE CHANT, Evan Dando presents himself as a sensitive curmudgeon as usual, but packaged in new musical diversity: In addition to raw indie rock, there is room for western swing, blues and brass. Dando hasn’t been interested in hits for a long time, some titles are a bit slow, but a lot of melodies stick. This is also due to the guest list: Indie icon J Mascis contributed the solo to “Deep End” and Adam Green co-wrote a song.
Particularly nice: the acoustic “The Key Of Victory”, whose great rhythm was provided by the Brazilian multi-instrumentalist Apollo Nove. Here it goes: “Some people find it hard / When I say what’s on my mind / I’ll tell you, life’s too short to live / To live a sparkling lie / And in the grand scheme of things / We may go our separate ways.” A touching text about transience, courage and sincerity. Good thing Evan Dando is back.
This review first appeared in Musikexpress 11/2025.