Pennsylvania has delivered some really incredible bands like August Burns Red, Halestorm, Breaking Benjamin, and Almost Honest. Almost Honest has been going for ten years and has released three full-length albums since 2017. They are paving quite the road, mixing it up with unique musical styles blended together effortlessly. Their newest release, The Hex of Penns Woods, came out November 24th, 2023 through Argonauta Records, and is a diverse and magical journey through the Pennsylvanian folklore with dynamic shifts that keep you entertained all the way through.
This band began in 2013 and consists of members: Shayne Reed (vocals, guitar), Seth Jackson (vocals, bass), and Quinten Spangler (drums). The Hex of Penns Woods has some stoner rock-style riffs, engaging stories, and funky drum and bass lines. The beginning starts with, “Magician Mortician”, which automatically grabs your attention with the magician talking to the audience and jumping into a solid riff. This track ends with a maniacal laugh and hammering drum beat. The album continues with, “Laughter of the Deer Owl”, which features Brandon Yeagley of Crobot. It is a great collaboration and a ton of fun. You continue right into, “Alien Spiders”, which has an amusing lyrical and musical experience. All the way through the album is an immersive experience and a fascinating journey. It ends with, “Goliath’s Lamp”, as the last lyrical song, and “William Penn”, as a quick instrumental to send you on your way. It is a fun album full of stories, great riffs, and all-around fun.
Shayne was kind enough to sit down with Metal Nation and discuss this release. (If you are viewing from your phone, scroll down to the bottom of the page and click “View Desktop Version” to get interview and videos access).