I See Hawks In L.A. "Hallowed Ground"
April 25, 2008
Formed in 1999 by Rob Waller and brothers Paul and Anthony Lacques during a philosophical discussion and rock throwing session on an East Mojave desert trek, I See Hawks In L.A. wrote their first batch of songs and then sought advice from local country rock guru David Jackson, sideman with John Denver, Dillard and Clark, and Emmy Lou Harris.
Jackson set up a few mics and recorded Rob and Paul, adding his own melodic bass lines. This demo turned into featured songs on the Hawks eponymous debut on now-defunct Ethic Records, featuring legendary fiddler Brantley Kearns (Dwight Yoakam, Dave Alvin, Hazel Dickens). The CD established the Hawks signature sound: high lonesome three part harmonies, twang guitar and unadorned acoustic arrangements, with lyrics musing on mortality, whales, and the geography of pre-apocalyptic L.A.
I See Hawks In L.A. received rave reviews, made the F.A.R. Alternative Country Chart, and continues to get regular airplay. With its experimental spirit and wide ranging musical influences, the record tweaked some traditionalists. But most agree that the Hawks have broken new ground.
In March '08 the Hawks' 4th CD "Hallowed Ground," recorded in drummer Shawn Nourse's studio and Paul Lacques's Echo Park flat was mixed by Ethan Allen (Dengue Fever, The 88, Patti Griffin, Daniel Lanois) in January '08, with stellar guest spots from fiddlers Gabe Witcher and Dave Markowitz, pedal steel from Dave Zirbel, acoustic guitar from Rick Shea, and accordionist/pianist Richie Lawrence. Folkier and more experimental than previous Hawks outings, "Hallowed Ground" hits the street May 20, 2008.
Listen to "Gettin Home Tonight", Now!
Thanks to Peter Holmstedt - Hemifran
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