THE HOUNDS BELOW
Just six months ago, Von Bondies frontman Jason Stollsteimer formed a new band: the Hounds Below, who have since released their first single and are embarking on a west coast tour. Focused on the beauty rather than the volume of the song, the band creates a melodic landscape that layers a lush, early rock-and-roll vibe over energetic indie pop. Bonding over a mutual appreciation of old and new music alike–everything from Roy Orbison to the Pixies–the Hounds Below have a sound that spans decades, yet is distinctively their own. Real Detroit columnist Jeff Milo describes the Hounds’ style as “presenting a swathe of moodier R&B, smoky soul, stately 50’s pop, and still maintaining that dreamy atmospheric fuzz rock sheen.”
In the trenches of a post-divorce state of mind, Stollsteimer began writing dark, alluring ballads that would eventually give rise to the Hounds Below. With every reverberating note, the band captures all the poetic remorse that lingers behind lost love. But that’s not to say that all of their songs are lachrymose. A sizeable proportion of upbeat, danceable numbers complete the sound and provide for an energized performance.
Last December, the Hounds Below played a series of shows in Chicago, including a performance on the legendary alternative music show, JBTV. Their upcoming west coast tour, which includes shows with Miranda Lee Richards, the Whigs, Visqueen, and Black Rebel Motorcycle Club, will be followed by a performance at the South By Southwest Festival in Austin, Texas, where they are a Featured Act.
THE HOUNDS BELOW
A New Band Featuring the Von Bondies’ Jason Stollsteimer
West coast tour / new recordings
Playing at Berbati’s Pan
February 25, 8:30 p.m. doors / 9pm show / 21+ / $5/ $7
231 SW Ankeny, Portland, OR www.berbati.com
Check the videos out here: http://www.jbtvonline.com/music/recent/The-Hounds-Below/
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