From Seattle, sedately. On Painted World, THE SOFT HILLS take inspiration from their environs, fusing the understated melancholy that runs through a city with so much rain and the fresh joy that comes with the sun after the clouds part. With oft-uplifting melodies given a gentle treatment more in keeping with twee artists associated with the United Kingdom, “Hills Like White Elephants” is the perfect folk pop hit single, at least in the universe I inhabit, while the other four cuts insistently drift in a moodier but just as melodic and satisfying direction. This kind of overtly emotional pop can feel false if done incorrectly (see: more Pitchfork-approved indie rockers than I can count). Armed with a finely crafted blend of acoustic and electric guitars and the keening voice of GARRET HOBBA, the Soft Hills get it quite right.
http://myspace.com/thesofthills
