Novel Sounds of the Nouveau South

iTunes Review

Concise, catchy, and delightfully dense, Novel Sounds of the Nouveau South is a marvel. It’s not as loose and rollicking as Ha Ha Tonka’s stellar debut, Buckle In the Bible Belt, but that’s no complaint. This one still rocks, but there’s a depth and maturity here, while still retaining an exhilarating grittiness, that vaults it above their first release. Beautifully crafted and fully formed, it’s filled with powerful, driving music that satisfies on both a visceral and cerebral level. The liner notes say the album is based on a 1907 Southern novel. While that’s not exactly apparent, there is certainly a coherent, if oblique, theme of forgiveness, redemption, and coming to terms with the past contained within these literate lyrics, and it’s a fascinating listen from start to finish. The band is going for a contemplative snapshot-in-time feel and its members nail it. This concept is supported by great melodies, strong dynamics, impressive harmonies, and the arresting lead vocals of Brian Roberts who is truly outstanding. Self-assured and soulful, this is a must for fans of modern Southern rock.