Bluegrass music has often been seen as a male dominated genre, at least when it comes to band leaders and lead musicians. Bluegrass band, Hogzilla has an interesting name, because not only is it led by Hilary Hawke and Mimi Lavalley, who also play lead instruments banjo and guitar, but they do not match the description of a "Hogzilla" or large, wild, human hungry hog! This being said, a new EP, and refreshingly spirited performances give Hogzilla a step in front of other bluegrass bands.
The band is made up of banjo player, Hilary Hawke who has been described as a luminary in the Brooklyn country music scene. Hawke wrote the music on new EP Lost My Mind, being described as rhythmic, and catchy alt/country bluegrass. The tracks on the EP all lock into a steady groove, even the memphisy ballad Hymn which tells of a tearful long distance relationship. What stands out about Hogzilla is that they play a sort of music that really connects with the audience without always relying on cheesy lyrics or the predictable chord changes that you can expect from the normal aspiring original band. The band has songs about the changes and trials of living in NYC in songs Gentrification of D.U.M.B.O, and L.I.C. With tight harmonies, solid rhythm, a good punch of attitude, and girls that really play their instruments. The band is comprised of guitar, banjo, upright bass and snare drum. Members include Hilary Hawke-banjo, Mimi Lavalley-guitar, Mike Brown-upright bass, and Joe Humel-drums.
New EP Lost My Mind:
Tracks:
1. Don't Let me Be
2. Take that Ride
3. Hymn
4. Lost My Mind
5. Gentification of D.U.M.B.O
Their new EP Lost my Mind can be found on cd and at any one of their shows. Recently featured on Soundcheck WNYC, expect to hear more than a little squeal from Hogzilla!
Source: www.ezinearticles.com
