The Hooten Hallers (from the album The Devil’s Egg

The Hooten Hallers  (from the album The Devil’s Egg

The Hooten Hallers  (from the album The Devil’s Egg available on The Hooten Hallers/Garlic Press Records) (by Lee Zimmerman)

Using their rambunctious approach and incendiary live performances as an example, The Hooten Hallers rarely conform to expectations. Yet, having been bred in Missouri, those unaware might think they’re simply another pack of down-home denizens inevitably tied to tradition. As their new album, The Devil’s Egg, demonstrates so decidedly, The Hooten Hallers are anything but predictable. A propulsive power trio, the band consists of vocalist, guitarist, bassist John Randall, drummer, percussionist, vocalist Andy Rehm, and vocalist, multi-instrumentalist Kellie Everett, all of whom play a role in driving a steadfast sound.
 
Indeed, while the line up’s relatively sparse instrumental arsenal might suggest a low-key approach, the results prove otherwise. A concept album that lacks precise parameters, The Devil’s Egg is raucous and irrepressible, sounding something like the bastard child of Tom Waits, Motorhead, and Ozzie-era Black Sabbath. It’s not for the faint of heart, nor for those who may expect the tried and true.
 
The story centers around three disillusioned teenagers who find themselves transported to an alternate universe. It could be considered a Rock opera given the thematic narrative and the eerie spoken intro voiced by special guest David Dearnley. However given the solid stomp of songs such as that title track, the decidedly descriptive “It’s Getting Hard to Be a Kid These Days”, the gruff “Touch It”, and the majority of the tracks that follow, it’s clear that the band are out to make a formidable impression. In that regard, it’s an edgy, uncompromising set of songs that propel the plot along, making for a journey that’s both compelling and chaotic all at the same time.

Inevitably, the listener is challenged to understand the action, given the emphasis of sound over substance. Nevertheless, those who admire the mettle of metal will likely find much to appreciate as far as this brazen bluster is concerned. Clearly, the devil’s in the details. (by Lee Zimmerman)
 
Listen and buy the music of Hooten Hallers from AMAZON
 
For more information, please visit the Hooten Hallers website