James Menefee of River City High wrote his full-length debut on acoustic guitar, then built a band to flesh out the tunes. Long Arms was the result, a project that mixes the songwriter’s rock roots, ’90s alt balladry, and mature Americana with pedal-steel guitar and hooks. “Waiting to Be Reborn” was one of the first songs written, as Menefee worked his way through that crucial turning point in his career and the inevitable self-questioning. “It talks about when you’re at the peak of all your anxieties,” he says. “Instead of trying to decide everything at a fever pitch, you lay back and patiently wait for whatever redemption you’re looking for.” The band has charged forward and is prepping a 7-inch split record with Horsehead (see track 9), due in July.
