Photo: Z. Jakimovas
Hailing from Vilnius, Lithuania, suave post-punk ensemble Local Blood brings their distinct chronicle to the fore with their latest offering, Loverman. This album delves into the musical ethos and societal undercurrents of the 1990s, a period marked by Lithuania’s nascent statehood. In this era, the blurred lines between everyday life and criminality ranged from minor thefts to entrenched mafia conflicts and gang rivalries, even escalating to warfare.
At the heart of Loverman lies a central figure, an embodiment of the ordinary individual thrust into the chaos of these times. This protagonist, initially an emblem of innocence and mundanity, finds himself transgressing the societal boundaries that define moral conduct.
The band articulates a vision for the album as a cohesive, conceptual journey, encouraging listeners to experience it as a continuous narrative. It is a portrayal of the protagonist’s internal and external battles, set against the backdrop of a society grappling with its identity and moral compass. Loverman also deftly explores the ethical thresholds a person might cross for personal gain. With Loverman, Local Blood transcends the mere creation of melody and lyric, venturing instead into a realm where music becomes a medium for profound introspection on the intricacies of human ethics. Set against an impressive multi-instrumental arrangement, they demand we ponder the deeper questions of right and wrong.
The band’s sound, rich in blues and jazz elements, evokes a cinematic feel that might remind one of the eclectic work of Tuxedomoon, the mysterious and often surreal world of David Lynch, and the intense, emotionally charged poeticism of Nick Cave. The vocals, delivered with a primal intensity, range from growls to wails to screeches, each note ringing with a raw catharsis that is as compelling as it is unsettling.
Local Blood’s approach is a bold fusion of musical skill and emotional depth, offering a listening experience that is both intellectually and emotionally stimulating. This blend of intricate instrumentals and visceral vocal performance positions them as not just musicians, but as storytellers and philosophers of the modern age.
Listen to “Loverman” below, and pick up the album on vinyl here:
The year 2022 marked a pivotal moment for the group with the release of their debut full-length album, Dystopian Disco. This initial offering was complemented by two standout singles, My Blood and Control, which helped cement the band’s presence in the music world. Their momentum continued as they performed at the largest music festivals across Lithuania.
Throughout the year, they remained actively engaged in numerous prestigious music projects, participated in various festivals, and showcased their talents in significant music events. Local Blood’s yearlong trajectory from their debut in 2022 to the release of Loverman in 2023 highlights their relentless pursuit of musical expression and their rising status in the Lithuanian and potentially broader European music scene.
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