Fortress - Sister Hazel

Music 
2004

This is a great album! I thought "Somewhere More Familiar" the band's major label debut was very good and nearly great, Fortress is at the next level.

Sister Hazel came out of Gainsville Florida a few years ago, busting on the scene with a toe tapping jangly guitar sound with the single "All For You". Fine writing and the strong vocals of Ken Block make for an appealing, accessible rock band. Their music while sounding simple and breezy is richly textured and highlights excellent lead guitar work with a solid rhythm section and fine backing vocal harmonies.

Fortress is very well recorded and is a hot sounding album. The bass is heavy and the drums are out front, just like rock and should be. I have three favorites, but every song is strong. I think "Champagne High", "Beautiful Thing" and "Your Winter" are have real depth and soul. Having seen these guys live three or four times now the material from Fortress is highlight of the show for me. I can't recommend this album highly enough!


4 of 5 stars

CW