Fly
Self-Released, 2020
8/10
These days the one time solo project of David Hawkins has morphed into a full band affair, where members of The Posies, Elvis Costello’s Attractions and Mott The Hoople are in attendance to help deliver a very diverse listen that often points to the early ‘90s in all the best ways.
“This is It” starts the listen with an exciting guitar driven rocker where multiple vocals harmonize amid a bright atmosphere that jangles a bit like the ‘60s, and “I Still Want You” follows with organs and acoustic strumming highlighting the fuzzy, alt-rock setting that might be like what The Replacements would have sounded like today if they hadn’t self-destructed.
Further on, “She’s An Angel” displays strong guitar playing in a climate that’s part classic rock, part modern rock and entirely memorable, while “You Are The One I Want” takes a leap into early New Wave ideas that run parallel to the greatness achieved by New Order. “Truth To Power”, another stand out track, then hints at Americana in its playful, rhythmic execution that provides insight about the current administration
At the end, “Everstill” finds a dreamy place to reside, and “Lost Our Way” exits with psyche-rock nods that’s also not short on soulful rock and plenty of exploration.
Although Hawk has always been the brainchild of Hawkins, with Ken Stringfellow, Pete Thomas, Morgan Fisher, and Aaron Bakker officially on board, his multifaceted version of rock that also flirts with New Wave and and power-pop has never sounded better.