CD Review – Sister Hazel
Heartland Highway
Self-Released
Sister Hazel has been creating Southern alt-rock since the early 90’s. They broke out with the smash “All for You” in 1994 and since then they have been riding that feel-good vibe right into the next millenium. Their latest release is more of the same, which may not grab new fans, but their fanbase is so huge, it doesn’t really matter.
“Far Away” is a smooth mid-tempo semi-ballad that sounds like a tribute to American troops who are “not that far away.” Lead singer Ken Block has a voice that is instantly recognizable and is becoming a little more countrified especially on tracks like “Where Your Going” and “At Your Worst.”
One of the things that has always been refreshing about Sister Hazel is that their music is positive. Even on tracks like “Champagne High” from Fortress (one of my all-time favorites) and “Saddest Song (Not Coming Home)” the mood is melancholy. They are a group that sings about loving what you have or reminising about love or the “good ol’ days” and moving on with your life. It’s been working quite well for them for roughly two decades. Why change what works?
