Ex-Vöid
In Love Again
Tapete Records [2025]
“Blending punchy guitars, heartfelt lyricism, and irresistible melodies, In Love Again proves Ex-Vöid is just getting started.”
Album Overview: Ex-Vöid was formed by Lan McArdle (Lanny) and Owen Williams (The Tubs), who previously played together in Joanna Gruesome during their teenage years. The duo has been collaborating for over a decade, with Ex-Vöid marking a fresh chapter in their musical journey. Joined by Laurie Foster on bass and George Rothman on drums, the band released their debut album, Bigger Than Before (2022). In Love Again represents a confident evolution, embracing a broader range of sounds with a direct, hook-driven approach. The album melds elements of shoegaze, country, and ’90s indie rock, balancing high-energy guitar work with polished, melody-focused songwriting.
Musical Style: The album blends bright, sometimes heavy guitar lines, tight harmonies, and driving rhythms that keep the momentum high. Folk-inspired vocal arrangements, dynamic indie rock sensibilities, and twangy country flourishes add depth, all tied together by McArdle and Williams’ unmistakable synergy.
Evolution of Sound: Compared to their debut, Ex-Vöid takes a bold leap into more expansive and accessible songwriting. While Bigger Than Before leaned heavily on raw punk energy, In Love Again refines their approach, incorporating more nuance, texture, and vocal precision.
Artists with Similar Fire: Fans of Waxahatchee, Alvvays, and Speedy Ortiz will appreciate Ex-Vöid’s infectious melodies and layered vocals. Their storytelling and genre-hopping evoke Lucinda Williams, while their collaborative spirit nods to Joanna Gruesome’s roots.
Pivotal Tracks: “July” and “Sara” stand out for their emotional weight and soaring choruses, with McArdle’s vocals shining in particular. “Down the Drain” takes a different approach, showcasing Williams’ perspective on heartbreak. Their fuzzed-up cover of Lucinda Williams’ “Lonely Girls” pays direct homage to a key influence while keeping the song’s core intact.
Lyrical Strength: In Love Again explores loss, heartache, and self-reflection with wit and raw honesty. McArdle and Williams craft lyrics that feel both intimate and universally relatable, enhanced by vivid imagery and a fearless dive into emotional vulnerability.
Final Groove: In Love Again finds Ex-Vöid refining their sound without losing their edge, balancing punchy hooks with thoughtful songwriting. The album’s mix of raw energy and polished melodies proves they’re more than just a continuation of past projects—they’re carving out something new. If this record is any indication, Ex-Vöid’s next move could be even bigger.
EX-VÖID LINKS
Bandcamp | Instagram | Tapete Records
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