John Calvin Abney releases Shortwaving, a country-rock EP exploring faith, resilience, and finding hope amidst static.
John Calvin Abney has released Shortwaving, a haunting five-track EP that reflects his journey through a year of recovery and introspection. Out now via Tin Canyon Records, the project captures the acclaimed singer-songwriter’s return to music following a vocal injury that required surgery and a prolonged break from touring and recording.
Recorded at Columbus, Ohio’s Secret Studio, Shortwaving reunites Abney with a live band for the first time since his 2019 album Safe Passage. Lydia Loveless co-produced the project, contributing background vocals and engineering expertise. “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,” Abney shares.
Lyrically, the EP explores themes of unease, perseverance, and connection in an age of overwhelming noise. The title track, “Shortwaving,” captures this essence with the lyrics, “Swim the shortwave / Cutting in and out / I’m losing strength in these hills.” The meditative tone is complemented by ghostly slide guitar and looping minor chords, evoking a sense of quiet persistence. 
While much of the EP feels introspective and intimate, brighter moments like the chiming guitar of “Supporting Actor” and the triumphant chords of “Truckee River Blues” offer glimmers of hope amidst the static. The result is a project that feels personal and prayer-like, showcasing Abney’s resilience as an artist.
Shortwaving is now available on all platforms. Abney will embark on a North American tour in 2025 to support the release.
