Everybody Here

For The Hotwalls's 2009 release, Everybody Here, the band took the shimmering, power pop of their 2007 debut, deconstructed it's more striking elements, and added a little soul, punk, and psychedelia, making for a highly dynamic and compelling work of art. From the album's mini-epic opener "Conquer Din" and the unforgiving one-two punch of "Love & Sense" and "Embodied," to the mocking waltz of the title-track and the aching beauty of "Sarabot," the band's remarkable development over the last two years is evident. Owing much to the addition of Nathan Lélandais-Miller on bass, with his rich sense of tone and counter-melody, and Jarrod Champion's multi-instrumental verve on drums, keys, and harmonies, The Hotwalls boast a brilliant sonic palette as they've become a bona fide collective. Gabriel Doman weaves his angular yet agile guitar work, from delicate restraint to near-abandon, with Ryan Milligan's versatile tenor, vividly animating the album's themes of love, loss, urgency, and purpose. Everybody Here could veer off at any moment; such is a fear worth loving. The keen production and mixing sensibilities of Eric Hoegemeyer further ensured that Everybody Here delivers an aural experience worthy of repeated returns. Additional contributions were graciously made by Ben Moore, Erik Maluchnik, and Marie Lélandais-Miller. - Detroit's Finest Records, 2009.