HOWLIN’ SUN – HOWLIN’ SUN (RE-ISSUE)

What a lovely surprise it was to see that the self-titled opus from 2018 by the Norwegian rockers Howlin’ Sun is available on vinyl and CD again. This re-issue does not bring anything new to the table in terms of bonus tracks or outtakes or anything like that, but the album is so incredibly good that we simply need to mark and celebrate the fact that it is out there and visible in the record shelves once more.

You want groove, grit, irresistible hooks, and warm, fuzzy-sounding guitars? And you desire a fiery and inspired mixture of hard rock, blues rock, and psychedelic rock? This one delivers all of that and more, and it is pretty fucking far from being short on ideas, dynamics, or charm – that much I can guarantee you. Also, it sounds absolutely glorious on vinyl, and I am amazed at how perfectly it balances the new with the old. In some respects, it could have been captured on tape back in 1967 and no one would have questioned that yet there is an indefinable edge to the music that sounds much more current, which I find rather interesting. Anyway, just make sure you check this gem out as it truly packs a punch. It is a superb collection of memorable tunes but my favorite piece has to be the mesmerizing and hazy “Jupiter”.