With the band name and CD title you might expect this to be a religious or Gospel record. But NJ Alternative band, Holler, Wild Rose, are more The Mars Volta then Gospel. Although there are some big, lush vocal chorus' that remind you of a Gospel choir, at times, especially in the song, "Captive Train", which does have that Sunday sermon feel to it. Imagine Coldplay meets Radiohead meets Porcupine Tree. Much more European sounding than Jersey!
With vocals delivered in a Bono/U2-esque style, but with an old school brooding and dank '90's sounding Alternative backing band with multilayered guitars and dark, depressing vocal tapestries abound. Holler, Wild Rose create a very airy and trippy listen with Our Little Hymnal. There is a lot going on, on this record that the naked ear might miss on the 1st go around. Most of it on a purely musician level, but is pleasurable to even the non player. Flutes, percussion, hand claps, drums being played with brushes!
All and all, Our Little Hymnal is an interesting record that is a mood sensitive listen for sure. Very mid paced throughout, it is not a CD to wake up in the morning to and get energized or "pumped up" to. With its dark and brooding nature, Holler, Wild Rose have created a soundtrack to a psychological thriller. Interesting, strange and beautiful all at the same time.
Track Listing
- Holler, Wild Rose!
- First Selah
- Marylawn Hair
- Mercy Beat
- Captive Train
- Poor In Spirit
- Second Selah
- Sun Vines
- Thief In Our Bed
- Color That Sky
- Third Selah
- Promise Braid
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