Since 2018 one of the most affecting bands from Oklahoma have been Downward. Currently comprised of Drew Richardson, Tollie Pugh, Hunter Senft, and Severin Olsen, the band have previously released one album and a string of singles and EPs. Over the years, they have characterised their music by pulling from influential shoe-gaze / emo / alternative rock bands while steadfastly developing their own voice. Seven years after the release of their debut self-titled album, the band surprised everyone with their newly released sophomore album Downward (LP2). Recorded and produced by Kendal Osborne with additional mixing and mastering by Corey Coffman, the album flows with deliberate precision, the clear-cut rhythmic textures are swathed by melodic yet striking guitar work. It is at once a gently comforting and meditative listen with revelatory moments that catch you off guard.