Hautewerk (Kenny Howes) - Stop Start Again

2006 side-project from Kenny Howes and John C. Hall that gives Howes a chance to stretch his creative wings and work with an fascinatingly talented songwriter, combine their different influences and writing styles and fuse them with a grounding of Howes` 12-stringed Rickenbacker jangle. The sound of Hautewerk is hard to pin down and drop names on, but it`s adult-power pop, no doubt. Steely Dan or a recent Tom Petty doing a bit `o pure pop, perhaps? Well, it`s not far off, actually as all this material is not only easy on the ear, at all points but has exquisite musicianship, carefully divined nuances and a quiet confidence in its artistic vision. Fans of Kenny Howes` previous work will, more than likely, be very happy with this slightly different, but perfectly logical direction. Combining bright, ringing guitars and rich harmonies with tight arrangements and clear, punchy production, "Stop Start Again" is pure, pure delight! Extremely Highly Recommended.