Little Hurricane are a rock and blues duo from San Diego, California, formed back in 2010. Over the years the band have released three records, including an album of cover songs, and Friday marked the release of their fourth album, Same Sun Same Moon. The first single from the album, OTL, was released last month, and you can watch the video here:
Now, on to the album. Same Sun Same Moon begins with the title track, which is a bassy, upbeat start to the record with cutesy, optimistic lyrics. This leads into Bad Business, a more bluesy number with a grungy, guitar led chorus.
This record is anything but predictable. Tracks shift between high tempo, riff heavy sounds and more indie, acoustic vibes, keeping the listener guessing as to where the record will take you next. There are also occasional touches of brass, ukulele and piano which demonstrate that Little Hurricane are willing to experiment a little with their music, and don’t let themselves be restricted by the ‘blues’ label.
I’m a big fan of frontman Anthony Catalano’s vocals throughout this record. His voice can be clear and crisp, or rough around the edges, depending on the tone of the track, and I really like that versatility. Plus, the occasional female vocals from drummer Celeste Spina add a pleasant, soft contrast to Catalano’s deeper voice. Plus, it helps to illustrate the evolution of their relationship – since forming the band, the two have fallen in love and married, as discussed in OTL.
I also like the combination of drummer Spina’s indie/bluesy playing with programmed electronic beats. This combination helps to add a more pop-sounding vibe to some tracks, like the bridge and chorus of Isn’t It Great, as well as a more grungy sound to tracks like March Of The Living.
This was my first listen to Little Hurricane, and I’m a little sad that I’ve been missing out on their music all these years. It almost defies belief that such a well-rounded, mature sound can come from just a two-piece. If you’re a fan of groups like Band Of Skulls or Foals, you definitely need to get this indie/blues duo on your playlist, stat. Same Sun Same Moon is a great all-round record, with compelling lyrics and an upbeat, hopeful sound.
Highlights: Bad Business, Take It Slow, Mt. Senorita, Slingshot
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