Label: Independent
Since 1998, the Langhorns have released only a handful of recordings, but each one makes an impact. When they resurface, the music world takes notice. Showstopper was their 2024 full-length release.
The band originally started as a duo but quickly evolved into a tight-knit trio (often augmented by horns or organ):
Michael Sellers (Guitar): The band’s leader and
primary songwriter, formerly of the Swedish rock band The Sinners.
Martin Berglund (Bass): Co-founder who provides the driving low-end.
Rikard Swärdh (Drums): Joined shortly after the initial sessions to complete the core sound.
Erik Wesser (Organ): A frequent contributor to their studio recordings and live shows.
“Showstopper” gets things rolling. As expected, some high energy and great rhythm kicked in without hesitation. There is constant strumming for a strong bottom layer as the lead guitar goes into twang mode at variable tempos. Three-quarters in, it comes to a very mellow interlude with not much going on, then it explodes back into the original high energy.
“Dr Münster, I Presume?” takes on a different atmosphere, but you knew it would once you looked at the title. It carries a retro sound that would have fit well into The Munsters TV series. Great rhythms from the bass and drums, then an organ comes in for the icing on the cake. I am sure Fred Gwynne is smiling in heaven after hearing this tribute.
“In An Oriental Mood” has an air of mystery courtesy of the organ, the drums, and the bass, and it is very strong here. The guitar’s resonant tone is just right. It creates many cinematic visions with changing directions. One moment it sounds Middle Eastern and the next parts spaghetti western, then back to mysterious organ. Talk about touching upon several sub-genres in one song? Yes, indeed they do!
“The Snoozer” goes in yet another direction with a piano that sounds like a soundtrack to a 50s spy movie. The guitar is beautifully done with some tasteful licks interspersed with the keys. Think of a smoke-filled room, then the beautiful nightclub singer walks out and starts singing, you are mesmerized, transfixed by the image in front of you. Jazzy and surfy all wrapped into one package.
“Project Grudge” reactivates their bouncy surf instro swagger. There is that great retro sound, complete with the grinding organ and twangy notes, morphing into a heavier fuzz tone. Just under two minutes gives you a look at their heavier side.
“Bad Karma” starts with the sound of creaking boards on a ship, and that organ to match comes in, leading you somewhere. This one is a slow burner, with a gradual build in the instrumentation; it leaves you hanging, wondering what will happen next, and that’s the point! This is a world away from the last track, which exhibits once again how diverse and talented this band is. Guitars punctuate the atmosphere with different layers. It fades out with the creaking boards from the lost ghost ship.
“Stoked” is a word that says it all for surfers in
Southern California. I think it still does. The course’s energy level shifts
dramatically from the prior track. This is why the Langhorns are one of the
best in the world at what they do. This is a classic surf rocker!
“Stagger” emulates that world perfectly with a slow, drudging guitar, then shifts to a higher-end tone, and then shifts yet again to piercing notes as the drums and bass hold down the bottom end. The organ is very retro (think The Munsters again).
“The Sweet Farewell” takes you on a smoother route to some island sun and surf. It’s the guitars’ echoing notes that start off getting you there, then the organ adds its ambiance for further scenery. The bass and drums are kept restrained, highlighting the guitar’s passages and transitions. This is the moody atmospheric Langhorns.
“The Standoff” is spaghetti western time as the drums and bass provide the horses’ gallop as our hero rides off into another adventure. Crashing cymbals and organ notes add an air of the unknown. The guitar is superlative, taking many twists and turns. Excellent! (utmärkt!). Notable the drums are making a statement here as well.
“The Hog” is twangy and colorful. It has a laid-back
feel, and the guitar has all the characteristics of a ’60s romp in the sun with
surfboard in hand. The first wave of influence is strong here, and they are
spot on. The organ is key again in making their sound luminous and original.
Leaving the longest track for the finale is perfect. “White Widow” runs 4:34. The sound features a surf background as one layer, with the guitar sounding a bit grungy at first, then reverting to a more rocking sound. The organ enters forcefully, and the volume rises at all stations, culminating in a powerful climax of sound and color. They decide to end this instrumental recording with a flourish, and they do so convincingly.
The Langhorns shift effortlessly between styles on Showstopper, making each track a surprise. Their diversity is their strength, ensuring listeners are never lulled by repetition—every song stands on its own. That’s the hallmark of true musicianship.
Keith
“MuzikMan” Hannaleck-Surf Music and Art Founder
February
24, 2026
Tracks:
01. Showstopper 3:00
02. Dr Münster, I Presume? 3:07
03. In An Oriental Mood 3:05
04. The Snoozer 3:21
05. Project Grudge 1:55
06. Bad Karma 5:36
07. Stoked 2:22
08. Stagger 2:38
09. The Sweet Farewell 2:26
10. The Standoff 3:22
11. The Hog 2:29
12. White Widow 4:34
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