EVENT OF THE WEEK: Hoots & Hellmouth
It’s a roots revival at the Ark this week as Phillie-based Hoots & Hellmouth bring their acoustic-gospel-psychedelic-rockin’ songsmithin’ to the stage. Brimming with passion, soul and energy, these guys put on a helluva fun show. And they’re only one of six blink-and-you’ll-miss-it events spotlighted in this week’s filterD.
Memphis by way of Philadelphia.
Hoots and Hellmouth at its best reminds you of a front-porch, foot-stomping revival, filled with all the fury a healthy fear of God can inspire.
Credit Sean Hoots with the intensity and fever-pitched glee, trading in on his gospel-like vocals and the band’s backing choir harmonies. It’s the kind of raucous, Appalachian-tinged roots rock and folk that forces you out of your seat and onto the dance floor. Hallelujah!
Andrew “Hellmouth” Gray, on the other hand, is cut from a kinder, gentler cloth, delivering prettified singer-songwriter fare that lowers the pulse and occasionally impresses. The one-two punch of styles don’t always work but they sure do make for an unpredictable and frequently inspired evening of music.
The band calls their work “New music for old souls,” and there’s definitely truth to the claim. Somewhere between homegrown folk and houseparty rock, H&H is well worth your time and your dime.
photos from the Hoots & Hellmouth myspace page and by David J. Simchock
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