John Calvin Abney Releases Haunting EP Shortwaving
John Calvin Abney’s Shortwaving explores themes of communication, unease, and resilience through haunting country-rock sounds.
Singer-songwriter John Calvin Abney has returned with Shortwaving, a deeply introspective EP released via Tin Canyon Records. The project follows a year of recovery from vocal surgery and reflects a period of creative renewal for the acclaimed artist.
Recorded live with a band at Secret Studio in Columbus, Ohio, Shortwaving captures a raw, cathartic energy that Abney describes as deeply personal. “It felt like these tracks came from an ancient part of me that I haven’t spoken to in a long time,” he explains. Co-produced by Lydia Loveless, who also provided background vocals and engineering, the EP’s intimate approach resonates with its themes of communication and resilience.
The title track, “Shortwaving,” encapsulates the EP’s exploration of sending signals into the void, with lyrics like, “Swim the shortwave / Cutting in and out / I’m losing strength in these hills.” Ghostly slide guitar and looping chords create a meditative atmosphere, mirroring the introspection at the heart of the project.
While much of the EP feels reflective and haunting, moments of light emerge in tracks like “Supporting Actor,” with its shimmering instrumental guitar, and “Truckee River Blues,” which concludes the collection with triumphant energy. Together, these elements highlight the hope found in perseverance.
Shortwaving is now available on streaming platforms. John Calvin Abney will tour North America in 2025 to share these powerful songs with audiences.