Dive into Hafsol's Rich Soundscape with New Release '2 More Songs'

Article Contributed by gratefulweb | Published on Thursday, January 11, 2024

2 More Songs cover art. (Photos & edit by Dylan Penna-Powell)

Hafsol, a dynamic psychedelic/indie-folk act rooted in South Jersey and Philadelphia, is thrilled to announce the release of their latest work, '2 More Songs,' set to drop on Friday, March 15. This much-anticipated release marks a significant evolution from a once-solo project initiated in 2014 to a harmonious quintet, led by singer and multi-instrumentalist Dylan Penna-Powell.

Over the past year, Hafsol has cultivated a growing following through their residency at Philadelphia’s esteemed venue Ortlieb's. The group’s latest offering, consisting of two self-recorded and produced tracks titled 'Untitled #2' & 'Untitled #1,' showcases the band's unique sound that is sure to resonate with fans of folk, psych rock, and shoegaze.

'Untitled #2,' the leading single, features the collaborative writing efforts of childhood friends and bandmates Ryan & Andrew Weikel, marking a new milestone in Hafsol's journey. 'Untitled #1,' serves as a reimagined version of an older acoustic track, offering a fresh perspective and depth to the band's evolving sound.

These tracks delve into profound themes of life, death, love, and loss, encapsulated in dreamy and harmonious instrumentation. The music is driven by a combination of shuffling brush drums, strummed acoustic guitars, dueling pianos, lead guitars, and synthesizers, creating a rich tapestry of sound. The expressive and somber vocals reflect on challenging experiences, with 'Untitled #2' drawing inspiration from Dylan's experiences as a social worker and therapist, and 'Untitled #1' echoing a sense of resilience in the face of adversity.

The path to '2 More Songs' has been a journey of reconnection and growth. Dylan Penna-Powell's move back to the Philly area led to the organic involvement of Ryan and Andrew Weikel, reviving their musical camaraderie from their days in Rock University and high school bands. The quintet, recently joined by Jon Dare (keys) and Ian Simmons (bass), performed alongside honorary sixth member Anthony West, marking their debut as a five-piece ensemble at the Grape Room in Philadelphia.

Hafsol's previous release, 'Autumn '23, Live at Ortlieb's,' captures the raw energy and honest performance of the band, providing a glimpse into their evolving sound and the promise of what's to come. The live album, accompanied by a VHS film, is a testament to the band's authenticity and passion for their art.

Fans and new listeners alike are encouraged to immerse themselves in the rich discography of Hafsol available on Bandcamp and popular streaming platforms such as Spotify and Apple Music. Stay connected with the band's latest updates and performances by following them on Instagram and subscribing to their YouTube channel.

Hafsol's '2 More Songs' is not just a release; it's an experience – a journey through the depths of emotion, artistry, and musical exploration.

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