Hopewell Beautiful Targets
(TeePee Records, 2007)
Producers of psychedelic rock with soul, New York foursome Hopewell (which originally hails from Hopewell Junction) has definitely hit some bull’s-eyes on Beautiful Targets. The sinuous voice of Jason Russo (formerly of Mercury Rev) is an emotive instrument in itself, layered over bright, soaring tunes that are at one moment bombastic and cinematic, the next, awash in melancholy and poetic tones. These songs are thoughtful and fun, sometimes glam rock, sometimes romantic and lush, yet always catchy and dramatic.
The CD kicks off with the lullaby “In Full Bloom,” featuring acoustic guitar and a sophisticated string symphony that go right for the heart. The track is followed by the danceable “All Angels Road” and “Bethlehem,” tight, hard-driving rock tunes that pop like firecrackers. “Tree” and “Over & Over” are majestic, heartbreaking, and vulnerable with dreamy, sweeping crescendos. “Echo & His Brother” is the kind of epic alternative pop anthem that will have kids jumping up and down, perfect for the live shows that are reportedly thunderous.
If Hopewell’s endeavor is to make enormous musical strides, then here the band has hit that mark with stunning precision.
Fans of Muse, Interpol, Radiohead, the Flaming Lips, and even the Beatles will be instantly hooked and pleasantly surprised with Beautiful Targets. www.myspace.com/hopewell.
This article appears in December 2008.
