“Kennedy Hall - Spitfire EP” Review
“Late last year, we called out Kennedy Hall as a favorite Columbus, Ohio discovery. The project calls out influences like Fiona Apple, MJ Lenderman, and Bright Eyes. They are making their mark in a big way for the first time with the release of their Spitfire EP.
Kennedy Hall meshes together two sounds that are, to me, classic Columbus sounds. As I listen to the title track, I feel in a way like I’ve been transported back to the early days of my deep dives into the Columbus scene – standing in the dark at Kobo Live, sipping on a Strongbow Cider, listening to the band of the week whatever night I felt like wandering down from my abode on Tompkins Street circa 2012. What are the two Columbus sounds, you ask? Mainstream acceptance in Columbus (as represented in the festival circuit and local press) has gravitated toward a soulful, funky rock (see Mojoflo, Forest and the Evergreens) and lofi, grungy indie rock (I’m almost hesitant to make specific comparisons here because there are so many). This isn’t a criticism, but rather an attempt to say that Kennedy Hall has adeptly found a lane that ought to appeal to most live music junkies of the city. It’s also a distinctly Columbus sound, in a nostalgic sort of way.
Spitfire is a really strong EP that doesn’t overstay its welcome. It functions as a sort of mission statement for Hall. The hooks are aplenty but don’t try too hard. “Midnight Walking” has one of the most memorable choruses, accompanied by some bluesy guitar that is almost understated in the mix. All of the songs exist on a similar wavelength. “Billionaire” comes closest to deviating from this framework with a dreamy bridge that has the charm of an early 2000s pop rock tune. A fun “wah wah wah” guitar solo brings the track and the EP home, leaving the listener wanting more. And, just like that the title track is back appease the listener. If Hall was aiming for immediate replay value, she certainly knew what she was doing.
Keep an eye on this project. They’ve already been showing up at some prominent events in Columbus and they plan to get on the road ASAP.
Follow Kennedy Hall on Instagram.”
