With a voice that resembles Elvis Costello and an energy that recalls early Bruce Springsteen, Will Hoge is the artist to watch in 2006. His long-awaited new album, The Man Who Killed Love, is scheduled for release on February 7th.
Hoge wears his influences proudly, but always with originality rather than imitation. The title track burns with a 1970’s guitar rock groove a la Deep Purple or Cream, while stand-out “Hearts are Gonna Roll” is propelled by a pounding beat and stirring organ, reminiscent of the aforementioned Bruce.
Proving himself equally adept with ballads, Hoge pours out his soul on tracks like “Lover Tonight” and “Woman Be Strong.” The latter track begins with a restrained electric piano but builds to a full-blown southern soul blast punctuated by Hoge’s impassioned vocals.
In a testament to perseverance overcoming adversity, the album will be self-released. Hoge has already played the major label game, and documents his experience on “Pocket Full of Change.” “The man in Hollywood says that we ain’t any good, he won’t give us any money ’cause we play and talk funny,” sings Hoge, “A man could go insane trying to make it in this game.”
Over the next several weeks, Hoge will be posting a track from the album for download each week on his mySpace page. The first track, “Pocket Full of Change” was posted last night and was played over 250 times in the first ten minutes. Not bad for an independent artist.
When it is released, the album will be available at shows and via Hoge’s web site. Buy this album and support independent music; you won’t be disappointed.
Downloads available on Hoge’s mySpace page.
About the author: Mild-mannered corporate executive by day, excitable Twangville denizen by night.