Album Review: Do They Still Make Lighthouses by Sky Flying By
Released in 2011, Do They Still Make Lighthouses is one of those albums that sneaks up on you. It’s not flashy or loud, but it carries a weight that sticks around long after the last note fades. Sky Flying By—a project rooted in post-rock and ambient vibes—delivers an instrumental journey that feels both intimate and vast, like staring at the ocean while lost in thought. With genres spanning Pop/Rock, Electronic, and Rock, this album sits comfortably between meditative soundscapes and driving energy.
The record came out under two labels: Robots With Rockets and a self-release via Not On Label (Sky Flying By). You can tell there’s care behind every detail, from Nick Zampiello and Rob Gonnella’s mastering to Kevin Moore’s photography. The production team—including Jared Mooney and Mark Leombruni on recording and mixing duties—really nails the balance between crispness and warmth.
Two tracks stand out for me personally. First, “The Longer The Fall.” There’s something haunting about how it builds. It doesn’t rush; instead, it lets layers of guitar and synth unfold gradually, pulling you deeper into its world. I found myself rewinding just to catch how certain tones shimmer beneath the surface. It’s the kind of song that makes you stop what you’re doing and listen—not because it demands attention, but because it earns it.
Then there’s “Braving The Shallows,” which hits different. Where “The Longer The Fall” feels introspective, this track has a pulse that pushes forward. It’s almost cinematic, like the soundtrack to a scene where someone finally steps out of the shadows. The rhythm section, courtesy of Alex Mitchell’s bass work, adds a subtle groove that keeps things grounded even as the melodies soar. These songs aren’t just background music—they’re experiences.
One thing worth mentioning is the repetition in the tracklist. Tracks like “Back And Fill” and “Finding A Reason” appear twice, though slightly altered. At first, it threw me off, but then I realized it works. It’s like revisiting a place you’ve been before but noticing new details each time. Maybe that was intentional, or maybe it’s just happy serendipity. Either way, it adds charm.
What strikes me most about Do They Still Make Lighthouses is its ability to evoke emotion without words. Solomon D. Grey’s text contributions might hint at themes, but ultimately, the music speaks for itself. This isn’t an album you throw on during a party—it’s one you save for quiet moments when you need company that doesn’t talk back.
Final thought? Listening to this album feels like finding an old lighthouse still standing against all odds. Sure, technology has moved on, but damn if it doesn’t still shine bright.
