Of all the bands that did the usual post SXSW swing through Toronto, Howler was the only band I saw in Austin that I decided to catch on this side of the border. Their brand of no nonsense surf meets garage rock coupled with a truly entertaining live showcase in Austin got me excited. They had a certain swagger and thing about them that had me thinking they were going to be big. Seeing them at the Drake was a no brainer. Much like their songs, this review will be short and sweet.
First of all, since when did they have cell phone reception at the Drake basement? Ahhhhmazing. Howler played a solid forty minute set for the packed crowd. They showcased their two most solid skills (to this date) – short and catchy rock tracks and hilarious banter.Lead singer Jordan Gatesmith has got a good sense of humor and a certain presence on stage. It’s hard to explain. NME probably loves them already. Hit single and potential breakout anthem Back of Your Neck finished the set. It’s a great tune and sounds like a cross between a 50s greaser diner soundtrack and the Strokes. While I found their sxsw showcase to be better, Howler was still entertaining and are breathing fresh life into the whole garage rock genre.
Catch them when they come to your town. Their debut album America Give Up is out already.