DECEMBER 2009 ONLINE EDITORIALS

Head for the Hills – Head for the Hills

album cover

By Lindsay Nichols

Maybe it’s the mandolin, maybe it’s the intense, energetic jamming, maybe it’s the distinguishable Colorado bluegrass twang, or maybe it’s that dobro. Whatever it is, this album has it – the electricity that fuels Head for the Hills’ live performances has been harnessed and captured in the studio, which is no small feat.
In their second studio effort, the self-titled Head for the Hills is composed of some stellar originals that most any acoustic-music-lover will enjoy. Right off the bat, with “One Foot in the Grave,” the echoing harmonies pull you in. One of the most impressive tracks, “Solar Bowling Shoes,” is an instrumental number showcasing the true picking talent of the band and guest dobro player, Anders Beck. Much anticipated is the release of “A Poor Boy’s Melody,” a fan favorite… and the conclusion of the album with Ray Charles’ classic, “Unchain my Heart,” has perfect placement.
Head for the Hills are four young musicians who, for this album, joined with an outstanding team, particularly Drew Emmit. Head for the Hills was engineered by DSD audio pioneer Gus Skinas (Rolling Stones, Pink Floyd, George Harrison) and was mixed by 2008 Grammy Winner Vance Powell. The sound of the album is polished and well put-together. Special guests joined the band on quite a few of the tracks including Billy Nershi, Anders Beck, James Thomas and Kyle James Hauser. So, if you haven’t heard it yet, it’s time to listen…let’s see if you get it.
CD release show: Dec. 5 at the Aggie.
www.headforthehillsmusic.com