It all seems to be a matter of balance for US/Austria-based band Lehnen. Their album, This Could Be Our Dream Home, seems to confirm this with a highly impressive debut that draws from each of the band members’ own musical influences.
Lehnen came together when two American musicians met in, of all places, an Austrian elementary school. It was a strange twist of fate that resulted in a lasting friendship. They spent a short spell in the US. When they returned to Austria in 2005, they formed a band. That band is Lehnen. It seems to have been destined to happen.
The two young Americans were vocalist, guitarist, and organ player Joel Boyd, and drummer and keyboard playing Matthew Prokop. Soon after, they were joined by Stefan Sieder on bass, accordian, and background vocals, and Martin Konvicka who adds his skills on keyboards, guitar, and synths.
Each member enriched Lehnen by bringing to the group some of their own diverse influences. Joel was into post-hardcore, whilst Matthew was influenced by electronic music. Stefan meanwhile was listening to a wide range of Indie rock, while Martin played folk.
Despite all the variants at work, there is a chemical bond taking place within the band. This has resulted in a blend of the best of everyone’s influences and styles, resulting in a debut CD that is highly effective. As unlikely as it sounds This Could Be Our Dream Home successfully balances all these opposites in an album that works on every level.
Nicely understated electronica sits alongside, for example, glockenspiel and accordion. Yes it is undoubtedly eclectic and most definitely diverse. As strange as the band’s formation was, it works. They have achieved the all-important balance and produced an album that will draw you in, ignite your imagination, and leave you wanting to hear more.
Lehnen opens with the brilliantly titled “Learning How Not To Love You”. Let’s face it, most of us can identify with that title. It’s an excellent introduction to all things Lehnen, with subtle electronica slowly building into ringing guitars on a track that will recur in your mind long after it fades. Simple, yet passionate and deserving of volume, it is an impressive opener.
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