motel void

I grew up on R.E.M., so anytime I come across something that echoes that jangle-pop spirit, it immediately sparks joy. That’s exactly the case with Through the Static, the fourth album from the project Super Tuesday, led by musician Alex Kisch. His list of influences includes classics like The Replacements, but also more contemporary artists like MJ Lenderman. And throughout the record, you can clearly feel the mix of homage and personal touch.

The album opens with Natural Mystery, which pulls you into a seemingly understated but instantly likable world of guitar-driven music – something that feels increasingly rare in a landscape where guitar bands don’t often dominate anymore. There’s a quiet sadness in the catchy chorus that lingers in a satisfying way, giving it depth beneath the surface charm.

The second track, Carpe Diem, is an unexpected turn: it begins with an electronic beat that hints at a hip-hop/electronic influence, only to veer back into familiar territory with layered guitars and bass. Kisch’s voice doesn’t rely on range or power – it’s subtle, warm, and oddly familiar, making you feel like you’ve known it for years. There’s an effortless sincerity in his delivery that makes it easy to connect with the songs.

The title track, Through the Static, is a personal favorite. Built around an irresistibly catchy guitar motif, the song channels a vibe reminiscent of Kurt Vile’s recent work—laid-back, melodic, and full of character. It’s followed by Lucky Stars, a dusty ballad that recalls the slower, more introspective moments of Drive-By Truckers. The distorted guitars lend it a raw, earthy feel – like a warm afternoon in the countryside, with sunbeams and dirt roads in the background.

Cliffridge (Part 2) serves as a piano interlude at the album’s midpoint, enriched by soft background vocals. The mood reminded me of Quasi – another underrated act that knows how to mix melancholy with melody.

Then comes Soaking Up the Silence, which throws us back into R.E.M.’s Murmur or Reckoning era. The shimmering guitar riffs and relaxed rhythm feel like a direct nod to those early Athens days, and it’s a joyful listen that radiates comfort and ease.

As we head toward the album’s finale, The Right Thing stands out as a quietly hypnotic gem. Clocking in at nearly six minutes, it slowly builds an immersive atmosphere, culminating in a looping melodic phrase that sinks into your memory while gentle synths swirl around it. For me, it’s a subtle but powerful high point of the record.

Orphans brings in an alt-country tone that fits naturally with the rest of the album, and then Your Time Has Come closes the album in a stripped-back, folk-tinged arrangement that proves Super Tuesday’s songs hold up beautifully even in their most minimal form. There’s something in the melody that evokes Elliott Smith – gentle and haunting. It’s the perfect ending to a thoughtful and inspiring album.

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