We All Have Hooks for Hands

Most people in their right mind run for cover when they hear of yet another new band described as indie folk or Americana. Letting that dissuade you from the music of We All Have Hooks for Hands would be a grave mistake. While there's definitely plenty of jangle and twang...

By Jason Heller

December 10, 2009

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Most people in their right mind run for cover when they hear of yet another new band described as indie folk or Americana. Letting that dissuade you from the music of We All Have Hooks for Hands would be a grave mistake. While there's definitely plenty of jangle and twang to the South Dakota band's sound, its newest full-length, The Shape of Energy, trades the sparseness of folk for the full-blooded force of vintage country rock — then feeds it a healthy diet of Built to Spill, particularly in regard to frontman Eli Show's piercing, high-pitched cry. We All Have Hooks for Hands is a great reminder that roots music isn't all about moodiness and brooding; it's also about elation, celebration and no small amount of whup-ass.

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