A lot of people like to hate on Wavves. Ever since the band got a few placements on MTV, it has become en vogue to dismiss Nathan Williams’ music as style over substance. That is a shame, because beneath the sloppy lo-fi aesthetic, Williams has mastered the art of self-loathing.

It is easy to lump the band into that burnt-out surf-punk category. The difference is that Wavves music has an honesty to it that is largely lacking in that genre.

On its previous full-length release, King of the Beach, Wavves opted for more lo-fi production values. In a somewhat surprising move, the band enlisted producer John Hill for Afraid of Heights. Hill’s production credits include M.I.A., P!nk and Rhianna–quite a departure. Continue reading →