John Calvin Abney Releases Haunting Country-Rock EP Shortwaving

Photo Credit: Rebecca Sarkar

Shortwaving by John Calvin Abney is a meditative country-rock EP exploring themes of resilience and communication.

John Calvin Abney has released Shortwaving, a haunting EP blending country-rock influences with themes of perseverance and connection. This marks his return after a vocal injury that required surgery and a year-long break from recording and performing.

The EP was recorded live at Secret Studio in Columbus, Ohio, with co-producer Lydia Loveless, who also contributed background vocals. “It’s the first time since Safe Passage that I’ve cut my songs live with a band in the studio,” Abney shares. “Having my voice back after surgery and rest, it felt like these tracks came from an ancient part of me that I haven’t spoken to in a long time.”

The songs grapple with the challenge of sending messages into the void, embodying what Abney describes as a mix of unease and faith. The title track, “Shortwaving,” captures this with lyrics like, “Swim the shortwave / Cutting in and out / I’m losing strength in these hills.” With ghostly slide guitar and meditative chords, the EP creates a soundscape that feels both intimate and expansive.

Moments of light pierce through the darkness, as in the instrumental “Supporting Actor” and the anthemic closer “Truckee River Blues.” The EP culminates in a sense of resilience and hope, embodying the act of continuing forward amidst uncertainty.

Shortwaving is available now, with Abney set to tour North America in 2025 to share this deeply personal project with fans.