Singer-songwriter John Calvin Abney releases Shortwaving, a haunting country-rock EP exploring themes of communication and resilience.
Acclaimed singer-songwriter John Calvin Abney has released his highly-anticipated new EP, Shortwaving, via Tin Canyon Records. The project marks Abney’s return following a vocal injury that required surgery and a year-long break from touring and recording. During this hiatus, he leaned into writing, composing, and contributing as a sideman for artists such as John Moreland, Ben Kweller, and Wild Child.
Recorded at Columbus, Ohio’s Secret Studio, Shortwaving sees Abney collaborating with a small group of friends, including co-producer Lydia Loveless, who contributed background vocals and handled engineering duties. “It’s the first time since Safe Passage that I’ve cut my songs live with a band in the studio,” says Abney. “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 EP explores themes of communication and resilience, with Abney reflecting on the unease of sending messages into the void. This haunting set of country-rock laments draws comparisons to classics like Neil Young’s On The Beach and Jason Molina’s The Magnolia Electric Co. The title track, “Shortwaving,” captures this spirit with lyrics like, “Swim the shortwave / Cutting in and out / I’m losing strength in these hills.” 
From the spectral slide guitar in “Supporting Actor” to the triumphant chords of “Truckee River Blues,” Shortwaving conveys a journey through the static toward hope. Abney’s intimate performance feels like a private prayer, offering listeners a deeply personal connection.
John Calvin Abney will support the EP with a North American tour in 2025, with more music already in the works.
