Houndmouth's Golden Age Tour burned bright at Union Transfer

Houndmouth, copyright Dylan Eddinger Photography

Last night, Indiana-based rock group Houndmouth brought their Golden Age Tour to Union Transfer to celebrate their November release, California Voodoo. Going into the show only knowing their single “Sedona” from a couple years back, I was totally blown away by how versatile the band is. I got major southern soul vibes from each song, with heavy rock influences ebbing in and out of a more progressive, electronic elements. Houndmouth appeals to the ultimate current rock fan, because they’ve got something for just about every listener.

They opened the night with “Ludlow,” “Long as You’re at Home,” and “By God.” It felt like with each song, the band grew in numbers. First they were joined by a brass duo, which instantly filled the soundscape with a sense of wholeness that you didn’t realize was missing. Then another guitarist took the stage, and a seven-piece Houndmouth delivered songs off of California Voodoo, Golden Age, and Little Neon Limelight. Scanning their discography after listening in person, they played their best of the best without a doubt.

Houndmouth, copyright Dylan Eddinger Photography

There were so many moments where I was like, “I can’t believe I only judged them based on ‘Sedona.’” Guitarist Matt Myers is an incredible player. He played minutes-long solos that are without question exclusively live renditions, and was full of so much charisma and joy that his presence alone was enough to rile up the rest of the band. He and bassist Zak Appleby made an awesome vocal team, and one thing that I wasn’t expecting was that both Appleby, Myers, and drummer Shane Cody trade off on lead vocals. Not many bands do that, and I was equally impressed by all of their voices.

Notable tracks of the night for me were “Honey Slider,” “Coast to Coast,” “Golden Age,” and of course “Sedona.” They played a three song encore which we were all so here for. “For No One,” “Darlin’” and “My Cousin Greg” made the cut, and they ended the night with such a bang that I felt like I’d been listening to them for years rather than having gone in with one song on my mind.

Houndmouth left a great taste in my mouth, and the versatility of their sound and all-around fun and feel-good vibe have earned them a spot on my “Would See Again” list. They’re on the road for their Golden Age Tour and you can catch them next at Cat’s Cradle in North Carolina.

Houndmouth, copyright Dylan Eddinger Photography