​The HawtThorns (from Tarot Cards and Shooting Stars

​The HawtThorns (from Tarot Cards and Shooting Stars on Mule Kick Records) (by Lee Zimmerman)
 
In many ways, The HawtThorns — a thoroughly dynamic duo consisting of husband and wife Johnny and KP Hawthorn — find a perfect blend of melody and magic, one that incorporates the sunny sounds of classic California Rock blended with the rich resonant sounds of today’s Americana musical environs. Now, with their stirring second album Tarot Cards and Shooting Stars, the couple ratchet up the quotient of ambience and engagement, sharing songs that shimmer, shine and create an immediate impression. Whether it’s the soaring sound of “All the Right Reasons” or the hopeful optimism of “Let’s Get Together”, The HawtThorns vibrant harmonies and immaculate arrangements provide the ideal antidote for today’s troubling times.
 
In that sense, The HawtThorns effectively replicate the shared sentiments of a gilded age decades ago when optimism and engagement served a prime purpose. They’re masterful songwriters, and so it’s little wonder that their original songs find a fit with the album’s sole cover, a heartfelt take on “Lotta Love”, a song written by Neil Young and famously turned into a hit by the late Nicolette Larson. The uplifting “Baby It’s a Gift”, a decidedly determined “This One Is Ours”, and the beautiful ballads “One Human At A Time” and “This One Is Ours” exude a care and compassion that allow them to resonate with both feeling and finesse. So too, the indelible emotion imbued in the album’s closing track, “When Georgia Cries”, ensures those sentiments remain intact even after the final notes finally fade away.
 
Although The HawtThorns are relatively new as a pairing, both Johnny and KP have extensive experience on their own that was accumulated prior to their eventual union. It’s that culled credibility that contributes to the success of this sophomore set, making Tarot Cards and Shooting Stars the prophetic effort it is. (by Lee Zimmerman)
 
Listen and buy the music of The HawtThorns from their website
 
For more information, please visit The HawtThorns website

---