Curious, introspective, vulnerable, whimsical, singular. Devin Hopwood’s 2022 project, “Husk,” brings these impressions to mind with clever arrangements, cathartic introspection, and a sonic environment that invites the listener to stick around.
“Husk” feels like a reflection on the way one grows through life and, oftentimes, outgrows the inherited set of beliefs and behaviors that accompany a time and place. Hopwood tenderly navigates this experience with whimsical honesty, balancing weighty existential questions we all ask with metaphorical musings in touch with his Indiana heritage.
The opening track, “Mixed Signals,” laments the way relationships, society, and spirituality are rife with inconsistency. “Why Now” is a reckoning with the trauma and pain of messages received throughout life and the painful backpack of insecurity that remains.
The closing track, “Julie Lisa” is a lighthearted reflection on the pursuit of love, confronting the way people change and the endless search to feel alive. Hopwood says, “Being alive is such a crazy thing in itself. There are so many small, incredible things happening all the time that we can miss.” This album feels like an opportunity to stop and smell the roses, and it’s worth the stay!
Recording at Good Danny’s in Lockhart, Texas in the middle of a global pandemic created unique challenges for this project. The studio shut down and the original cast of musicians had to be changed completely, but the way it came together created a sound and experience that is completely singular.
Hopwood is deeply collaborative in his approach to creativity, and “Husk” featured contributions from several artists including Chris Cox (String Arrangements), Wilson Marks (Slide Guitar), Mike Stavitz (Percussion), A’ishah Tandoc, Abram Shook (Bass), Andrew Stevens (Drums) and Shea Farmer (BGVs) and others.
The entire project drips of analog tape warmth, drawing on influences like George Harrison, Brian Wilson, Fleet Foxes, Leonard Cohen, and others. Hopwood has found a way to harness these sources of inspiration to generate a sound all his own, like great artists do. Even with his distinctive expression, there’s a familiarity to Hopwood’s sound that makes this album feel like home.
Currently, Hopwood is working on his sophomore album, “Hans In Luck” at Naptime Recordings in Indianapolis, targeting a late 2023 release date. “Husk” is on streaming platforms everywhere. Be sure to connect with Devin on Instagram (@devinhopwood) to get the latest updates on upcoming releases!
