Lightheaded is undeniably an exceptional pop group. We have been waiting to share this with you for a long time. Their music is rich with melodies and harmonies, capturing a bittersweet yet unforgettable essence, blending familiarity with a unique flair. Their sound harmoniously combines jangling guitars, marked by Sara Abdlebarry’s refined and punchy Gretsch lead, with Stephen Stec’s resonant Rickenbacker. This musical foundation is solidified by Cynthia Rickenbach’s Hofner Violin bass, reminiscent of the bass tones on Michel Polnareff’s debut album.
Cynthia and Stephen excel in crafting classic pop tunes. Despite their youth, they display a mature taste in music. Cynthia is a fan of iconic artists like Gene Clark, Dusty Springfield, The Aislers Set, and Joan Jett, while Stephen finds inspiration in bands like Big Star, The Clientele, and The Go-Betweens. Their music reflects a rich tapestry of pop history, much like bands such as The Aislers Set and Belle & Sebastian, presenting a vibrant mosaic of the genre’s best elements.
Their debut album, ‘Combustible Gems’, showcases their journey in discovering and refining their musical style. It features songs like “Dawn Hush Lullaby,” which begins with a folk-pop waltz before transitioning into a vibrant Greenwich Village pop rhythm. “Moments Notice” bursts with rhythmic catchiness, starting with a Motown vibe before Sara’s mesmerizing guitar riff elevates it to new heights. “Hugging Horizons” exemplifies soul music with a fresh twist, creating a novel pop sound, while “Because of You” concludes the album on a high note with its poignant strings and Johnny Marr-style guitar work.
‘Combustible Gems’ is a plunge into the exhilarating waters of musical experimentation and self-discovery, marked by the spirited enthusiasm of youth. It embodies the urgency of Comet Gain, the nostalgic charm of early Orange Juice, and the confident, unpretentious style of early Pastels singles. It is an album that reaches earnestly for something more, making it a remarkable and endearing pop debut.