A dynamic and satisfying collection of moody slowcore, alt-rock dripping with distortion and lush chords.
‘Audition Tape‘ (2026, Crafted Sounds) by A Country Western has a big, moody guitar-driven garage sound. It’s got the lo-fi feel of a well-produced demo but with fully realized songs. Heavy at times, mellow at others this is a fine collection of slowcore, alternative rock. The band’s range is clear as they sway between loud and quiet, subdued and intense. Based in Philadelphia, A Country Western are Derek Hengemihle (guitar, vocals), Paris Parker (bass, guitar), Garrett Miades (drums, guitar), Erik Hilbert (guitar, bass). Their multi-instrumental tendencies lend to the depth and breadth of the songs.
There are some sonic surprises sprinkled throughout with abrupt endings and emotional twists. Random synth textures pop up from time to time. A banjo sneaks into the mix on ‘Wider’ — the shortest track on the album. There’s an interesting showcase of digital editing on the closing track ‘Redemption Inner Circle’ which is chopped up and reassembled, giving it a unique, turbulent feel. It’s an old avant garde practice initially used by writers like William S. Burroughs and Brion Gysin, later embraced by David Bowie. It was mainly used to break writer’s block, thought to reveal deeper, unseen meaning in words. It turns out, the same holds true for music.
‘Audition Tape‘ is a dynamic slow burn and a very satisfying listen. Solid songs dripping with distortion and lush chords mixed side by side with lighter, gentler moments. Emotions build and release throughout. It’s available on Bandcamp, along with the rest of A Country Western‘s catalog.
Cheers!
Stephen
Instagram -> instagram.com/acountrywestern
Bandcamp -> acountrywestern.bandcamp.com
Streaming -> craftedsounds.net/auditiontape
