Harlan Pepper

Here's a very young band with an old musical soul. Formed in Hamilton in 2008, they attracted some initial attention via the presence of bassist Thompson Wilson, son of Steeltown hero Tom Wilson (Junkhouse). The subsequent buzz is more attributable to high-energy live shows, and will be fuelled further by this excellent debut. All four members write in different combinations, resulting in a refreshingly varied sound. The opening track, "Great Lakes," is a light-hearted wordplay heavy homage to the region that's sure to go down a treat at folk festivals. "Royal Variety" has more of a roots rock vibe, enhanced by pedal steel and banjo, and there are frequent tinges of psychedelia on the album. Wilson's "Sweet Lucy" has a Cheech and Chong reference, and there's a catchy song called "Reefer." "No!" has a trippy/bluesy ambience, and they stretch things out jam-band style on the six minute plus closer, "Burn-Out." Clearly a band to watch.