Hawktail - Unless (2018)

Four luminaries of acoustic music today have united as Hawktail to create this album of modern, original instrumental music, a dormant category for bands within the American folk realm. This is refreshing, beautiful music that stands apart from anything like it in music today. While they are unopposed to flexing their prowess from time to time, shredding isn't their main focus: they present beautiful, winding melodies; moments of humor, surprise, and elation; and a different world - with it's own characters - in each number. They have been collaborating for over ten years in different formations, but Unless represents a new beginning. A mixture of recordings from the studio and from shows, this album was written to be played live for people in a room. The inclusiveness of that extends beyond the speakers: a finger on the string, a rush of energy when you didn't expect it - this is music made to be enjoyed. Expect more from Hawktail, because it is clear they have stepped into a quick current. In the meantime and forevermore, enjoy Unless, their debut album.