Being Here [LP]

Litvar is an alternative band formed in Willimantic Connecticut in 2020. The band is made up of Rex Thurstan (Singer, Lead Guitarist), Joe Lemieux (Drummer), Violet Falkowski (Vocalist, Guitarist), and John Blues McCarthy (Vocalist, Bassist). The band's name is a compound word of 'light' and 'variation'. They broke out with their single 'Hi I'm Andy' released at the beginning of the Covid pandemic, finding success through online promotion. Their first performances were at an outdoor venue started by the band and friends in an attempt to protect the local music scene. Since then, the band has been touring internationally fully DIY and is known for dramatic and dynamic stage performances. They've played venues such as Hotel Cafe in Los Angeles, Mercury Lounge in New York City, The Camden Assembly in London and dozens more.Litvar has released two albums so far, filled with earnest and exciting indie pop anthems. On their third record they take the wheel with production, recording 'Being Here' entirely at home. "It probably takes magic to cure this pain" sings Thurstan of the first chorus of the new album, setting the tone for a record that is heavy in tone but remains optimistic. 'Being Here' is like a collection of short stories, with different characters going through the stages of grief in a random order. Production wise it feels as if Porter Robinson wrote Freewheelin by Bob Dylan, blending acoustic instrumentation with electronic elements.