Surprisingly, this is a NYC based band that sounds more like an English band. Longwave formed in ’99 and got started by getting together in a small studio in NYC to lay down some demos . The "chemistry" was there. They then played a bunch of gigs (in Lower Manhattan) to hone their sound and were getting noticed by some pretty influential people. When Longwavereleased the "Daysleeper" EP, The Strokes manager was so impressed that he asked the to open for a show in the city. The band was also very impressed and eventually Longwave was opening for the entireStrokes” tour. This the led to a contract with the RCA label. The band worked with producer Dave Fridmann (Flaming Lips, Mercury Rev) and the result is the remarkable "The Strangest Things". Longwave has the feel of the "Shoegazer" era in the early 90’s. The Album is reminiscent of classic U2, Echo & The Bunnymen, Swervedriver, My Bloody Valentine & even Bends-era Radiohead. Filled to the brim with swirling guitars, amazing dreamy melodies, and experimental sounds; "The Strangest Things" is the best truly creative alternative album to come out (from the States), so far, this year (2003). The vocals, by guitarist Steve Schlitz, fit perfectly as they soar over the songs with a clarity not often found in the Alternative genre. If you’re into the early ‘90’s Alternative sound, this CD will reward you with lush pop sensibility, and pop doesn’t necessarily mean "soft" or "quiet". "The Strangest Things" is not Punk, but it does rock with a certain balance not heard in awhile. Clearly this is one to turn the volume way up for to obtain maximum listening enjoyment. Check out the single "Everywhere You Turn". Other stand-outs include: "The Ghosts Around You" "Tidal Wave" "Meet Me At The Bottom" & "Day Sleeper", the latter featuring a great off-beat drum track and no drum track. Sonically brilliant! (3 1/2 out of 5).