Lowery 66

Lowery 66

Holiday With Genie (India) A motley crew if there ever was one, Lowery 66 is fronted by two young history professors and a neurobiologist. Add on an ex-member of Silver Scooter on bass, a classically trained violinist who goes by the name of Miss Darlene, and a ukulele player manning a Lowery organ that was purchased for $66, and you've got one of the more interesting new bands in Austin. Holiday With Genie is their debut, and it's not easy to describe. At points, Lowery 66 recalls the best of Eighties roots rock bands like the Silos and Camper Van Beethoven or anything fronted by Michael Hall. Elsewhere, they're truly original, creating soundscapes that are intricate yet never overbearing, attractive yet slightly off kilter. By starting with the caterwauling instrumental opener "It's Alright," it's apparent that this is a band that's not afraid to take chances. "Florabama Requiem" is a long and forlorn piece that very few young bands are capable of pulling off without being self-effacing. Singer (and songwriter) John Troutman lends an air of confidence to the proceedings that keeps it rock-steady even when it appears the wheels are about to come loose on the whole project. Lowery 66 is a band with lots of entertaining ideas, and as shown here, the ability to bring them to light in a way that's interesting and understated.