If listening to Vegas Water Taxi feels like being shot out of a glitter cannon into a backyard pool party, then their album ‘long time caller, first time listener‘ is the splashdown we’ve all been waiting for. It’s a dizzying cocktail of indie-rock energy and DIY charm that sounds exactly like its title: a little bit chaotic, highly enthusiastic, and surprisingly endearing. It’s the kind of record that makes a perfect companion for that post-shift decompression; specifically, those Thursday nights after helping Xtine close up Cactus Club, when the adrenaline is still humming but the work day is finally done.
The tracklist is a treasure trove of sonic Easter eggs that pair perfectly with a cold beer and a bit of barstool wisdom. Three songs really steal the spotlight: “brat summer” kicks things off with a high-energy jab at modern pop culture, while “birkenstocks” offers a jangly, mid-tempo groove that feels like a sun-drenched stroll through the neighborhood and the opening lyrics “She’s a cocaine queen from the oat milk scene” made me nearly spit beer out my nose… fucking brilliant. Then there’s “jerry,” a standout anthem fueled by post-breakup paranoia and infectious hooks that will have you humming along by the first chorus. These tracks feel like the soundtrack to that short walk over to see our buddy Bret at Club Garibaldi, where the “good tired” vibes of the night truly settle in.
Ultimately, this album is a love letter to the local legends who keep the scene spinning. Our buddy Bret is such a great guy and a top-tier bartender, and this record carries that same spirit. It’s unpretentious, incredibly catchy, and always ready with a good story. Exchanging laughs and tall tales over a few drinks before heading home is the ultimate way to end a work night, and ‘long time caller, first time listener‘ is the musical equivalent of that first sip.
Links of interest:
https://www.instagram.com/vegaswatertaxi/
https://vegaswatertaxi.bandcamp.com/album/long-time-caller-first-time-listener-lp
https://pnkslm.com/products/vegas-water-taxi-long-time-caller-first-time-listener-lp-galaxy-vinyl