So there's a new Beauty Shop release...

And it's great. The new disc is titled "Just Some Demos," and it's being put out by the band. There are three tracks up on the band's MySpace site for you to enjoy.


These tracks are Hoeffleur's best efforts yet. The writing has never been tighter, both musically and lyrically, and if this is any clue as to their next album proper, then we're all in for a treat. Show-goers will recognize these tracks as the new ones that have been played at the band's gigs for several months now. Their recorded versions, whilst still considered demos, are faithful to the spirit of those performances. Although, I'm gonna start holding my breath for a live album from them soon, because an inspired Beauty Shop show is as exhilarating as any I've seen. And, in fact, if any of you were at the upstairs show at Mike n' Molly's this past June, you know exactly what I'm talking about.

Adam Schmitt ran the boards for this particular session, which was, according to Hoeffleur, all done in one take. Once I knew this, and I heard these songs again, I wondered what stopped them from just doing an album. These tracks, even at the demo stage, are produced and played extremely well. Perhaps the boys are awaiting a deal to let a label pay for a new disc? I couldn't think of a better batch of songs to get behind at this point, so, listen up A&R people, GIVE THIS BAND A DEAL!

Thematically, this album seems to focus on the aftermath of the ending of a relationship, but sonically, its approaches are all over the map. From mellow opener "Like I Wasn't Even There," to the mid-tempo rocker Ambulance (one of my personal favorites) to the neck-break paced closer "How It Came To This," it's obvious that someone in particular is on Hoeffleur's mind. How Hoeffleur chooses to engage that topic seems to vary, but, be prepared to wanna lay out your heart on a platter after a few repeat listenings to this disc. That's something truly special.

As of now, the tracks are not up on iTunes yet, so your best bet is to pick one up from the band, who have a show at the Urbana IMC on November 9th, or perhaps try calling Exile On Main St. downtown. It's only $5.

Here are some music videos from the band's last record, Crisis Helpline. Definitely worth picking up either online at iTunes or at a gig. Enjoy!