Laveda: From Albany to Queens and going to the moon with new album

By Tony Mastrianni.

Laveda has released their third LP, “Love, Darla,” on Bar/None Records, spearheaded by the former Albany-native band’s new single “Heaven.” They are ever so clever as their dauntingly imaginative style recalls the splendor of a Sonic Youth influence with some pretty soundscapes as well. This single is emotionally charged and is seemingly inspired by the late-night party culture East Village street sounds. One gets the feeling of being there, as the music echoes the runaway sound of bustling subway cars and grunge-like, strikingly good rhythms in the sprawling underground of the East Village. They have grown into a prolific band, having spawned in Albany, but as of 2023, they are now flexing their musical prowess in Queens. A grunge meets alternative, yet sometimes dreamy, ear candy that showcases Ali Genevich and Jacob Brooks—each weaving in and out of orbit with the exchanging instrumentation and vocals, guitar, bass, and synthesizer, alongside Dan Carr (bass, guitar) and Joe Taurone (drums). Ali and Jacob play off one another—always in sync and in stride. There is a mixture of well-conceived upbeat alternative rock tracks and a share of ethereal and reverie-like softer songs. Ali says it is the band’s most expansive and collaborative record they have recorded. The record label (Bar/None) has been home to the band They Might Be Giants, and Laveda just might become “giants” with their spiraling power, might, and aesthetically immersive videos. It is rock meets grunge with a heavy dose of originality. (The band has a penchant for recording some of the best indie videos of this genre—their “Heaven” vid is a must-see.)    Laveda spent a lot of time writing and rehearsing in the studio before the release of “Love, Darla,” and it shows. Hopefully, they will tour back to their native Albany soon.