Hawkeye is: As the lines dividing sub-genres of rock 'n roll splinter, groups find themselves settling into the cracks that separate musical styles. Peek between "Singer/Songwriter" and "Americana" and you will find Hawkeye. This Los Angeles-based Sextet, born in the summer of 2001, is quickly gaining recognition as the torchbearers for the roots rock revival in LA.
Fronted by a one two punch of Dawn McCoy (vox) and Kalai King (vox, guitars, banjo, harmonicas), Hawkeye immediately announces their signature sound with a couple of the finest, richest singers around. Trading lead duties, Kalai and Dawn meld their voices in a way only siblings should be capable of. This intertwining melody is usually laid upon a chorus of harmonies built by the rest of the group in Eagles-esque fashion, cementing themselves as a vocal group first and foremost.
This is not to detract from their musical prowess, for Hawkeye is composed of a diverse and well-versed group of musicians. They draw equally from barroom and conservatory, delivering intricate arrangements in a most simplistic way. J.K. Morrical (keys, accordion, vox) lays down gospel inspired piano, swamp-boogie rhythms, and a Hammond sound that Steve Winwood would be proud of. If provoked, he will occasionally whip out a mean accordion line as well. Jeff Bell (drums) makes sure there is no doubt this is a rock band with a solid backbeat and subtle fills. Spencer Watson (bass, vox) keeps the pocket warm with understated lines that will tap you on the shoulder when you least expect it. Frenchy McLean (electric guitars, lap steel, vox) rounds out the group with here-and-there country/blues licks, arching swells, and that "tele tone" every roots-rock group strives for. Sure, he looks innocent enough, but he plays the dirtiest blues you've heard for a white boy.
Armed with topical story-songs, Hawkeye builds sonic textures, brick-by-brick, on top of a solid base of strong lyrics and poignant points-of-view. They have drawn comparisons to such artists as Jackson Browne, Counting Crows, Ryan Adams and a certain New Jersey luminary
"(Hawkeye) follows the style of (Bruce) Springsteen, armed with guitars, serious vocals, and a charismatic presence!" - thelamusicscene.com
In the months since they formed, Hawkeye has played sold-out shows with the likes of Texas singer/songwriting legend Robert Earl Keen, New York groove rockers Chocolate Genius, and Dave Matthews protégé Chris Whitley. They are currently in the studio recording their first record. With all that they have done in their brief existence, Hawkeye is poised to become one of the few bands that won't fall through the cracks.
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