Minnesota Girl
Self-Release, 2024
9/10
The renaissance man and Duluth, Minnesota resident Hans Halstead may have cut his teeth in classical music, but these days his songs sit closer to rootsy areas, as evidenced by the 2 well thought out tracks here.
The cozy spirit of “Better In Your Arms” starts the listen with Joe Savage’s pedal steel and Noah Levy’s fluid drums making for a rich and hazy version of Americana that’s harmonic and melodic.
The back half consists of “Minnesota Girl”, where a heartfelt delivery emits much warmth via Halstead’s emotive singing and guitar, not to mention Scottie Miller’s well timed keys.
An artist who seems wiser than his years, Halstead’s formula might draw comparisons to Bob Dylan and Tom Petty, and these 2 songs are a strong introduction to a voice we’ll be hearing much more about in the future.
Travels well with: George Marinelli- Except Always; Morningbird- Echoes In The Meadow