Austin-based Heartless Bastards may not have achieved the same levels of notoriety as some of their blues-rock counterparts, but the band has attracted both rave reviews and a loyal fan base in its 10-year history. They are often compared to The Black Keys, which doesn't bother frontwoman and founder Erika Wennerstrom much. In fact, Wennerstrom credits The Black Keys with helping them land their first deal with Fat Possum Records.
"We opened for The Black Keys in Cincinnati and Patrick Carney (Black Keys drummer) asked us for a CD but we didn't bring any," Wennerstrom explains. "A month later, we played in Akron and didn't realize Patrick was in the audience. I gave him a CD then because I thought he might enjoy it; I didn't think about him passing it along to Fat Possum execs. They contacted me a few weeks later and we got signed."
Heartless Bastards' latest album, "Arrow," is a nod to Americana, blues and Southern rock set off by Wennerstrom's pleading, androgynous vocals. It is both melancholy and melodic, conjuring images of beautiful natural landscapes set against a backdrop of mystery and heartache. "Parted Ways" offers up a strong hook and jam-worthy guitar solos, while "Down in the Canyon" serves as a haunting showcase for Wennerstrom's remarkable voice.
"I feel like my musical interests and tastes have grown and I'm trying new things," Wennerstrom says of the album. "Each album I try to make different, I never want to repeat the same thing."
After undergoing several changes early on, Heartless Bastards has had a consistent lineup for the last four years, featuring drummer Dave Colvin, bassist Jesse Ebaugh and guitarist Mark Nathan. "Having spent so much time on the road together for the last four years, we've grown really tight live," Wennerstrom says. "I actually find that we are a band that sounds better live than on the album."
In fact, a 2007 recording of a live show at "Austin City Limits" offers both the polished sound of post-production and the grittiness and soul of a live performance. It's clear the band has chemistry, and Wennerstrom is a natural frontwoman.
Wennerstrom says a new album is in the works, but she's not quite ready to lay down any tracks. "I probably have a whole album in my head already. I've built it all up since we finished recording the last one, but as far as working on them with the band and everything? We haven't gotten there yet," she explains.
Wennerstrom claims to be a fan of all genres, but that her music is primarily influenced by the likes of Joan Jett, Otis Redding, Led Zeppelin and the Rolling Stones. Her writing process often includes extended solo road trips.
"I try to isolate myself when I write; I'm more productive that way," she explains. "I recently took a trip out to a friend's ranch; it was empty at the time, and a lot got hashed out then. Natural beauty is very inspiring to me, especially without modern distractions. There's no Internet, no phone, just me in the beautiful countryside, alone with my thoughts."
Heartless Bastards' Alaska shows come just prior to the band embarking on a nationwide tour. While here, they plan to take about 10 days off and explore the outdoors.
"We made the trip, we might as well spend some time up there," Wennerstrom says of her plans to go camping. "And I bet you it will inspire a song... 10 days in that beautiful country."
By Rachel Kenshalo
Daily News correspondent