A new musical supergroup named Howl Owl Howl has officially formed, bringing together prominent figures from 1990s rock. The band features Darius Rucker, known as the frontman for Hootie & the Blowfish, Mike Mills, the bassist and vocalist from R.E.M., and Steve Gorman, the drummer from The Black Crowes. The announcement was made public on Wednesday, September 24, through an Instagram post.
This collaboration marks a significant event for fans of these iconic bands. The trio of longtime friends is set to release their debut single and embark on a series of live performances in the coming weeks. Their formation combines diverse musical backgrounds into a new sound.
Key Takeaways
- Darius Rucker, Mike Mills, and Steve Gorman formed Howl Owl Howl.
- The supergroup was announced on September 24 via Instagram.
- Their first single, "My Cologne," will be released on October 31.
- A tour schedule includes a Boston show on November 8.
Formation and Member Backgrounds
The creation of Howl Owl Howl brings together three musicians with established careers. Darius Rucker gained fame as the lead singer of Hootie & the Blowfish, a band formed in 1986 at the University of South Carolina. His career later expanded into country music, where he achieved significant success.
Mike Mills is recognized as the bassist and a key vocalist for the influential alternative rock band R.E.M. R.E.M. formed in 1980 and became one of the most successful and critically acclaimed bands of its era. Mills contributed significantly to their distinctive sound.
Steve Gorman served as the drummer for The Black Crowes, a rock band known for its blues-rock revival sound. The Black Crowes achieved widespread popularity in the early 1990s. Gorman's drumming style was a central part of their energetic live performances.
Band History Overview
- Hootie & the Blowfish: Formed 1986, known for hits like "Hold My Hand" and "Only Wanna Be With You."
- R.E.M.: Formed 1980, pioneers of alternative rock with songs such as "Losing My Religion."
- The Black Crowes: Formed 1989, rock revivalists with tracks like "Hard to Handle."
Artist Perspectives on the New Project
The members have expressed enthusiasm about their new collaboration. Darius Rucker shared his feelings about returning to rock music with this group. He emphasized the joy of working with friends and musicians he admires.
"It feels great to be singing with a rock band again. It’s like buddies getting together, but also getting to play with your idols," Rucker told Billboard. "The stuff we’re writing is so different than anything I’ve tried to do before."
Rucker's comments highlight a shift from his recent country music focus. This new project allows him to explore different musical directions. The creative process has been unique for him.
Mike Mills also commented on the chemistry within the band. He noted that mutual respect and enjoyment are crucial elements for their collaboration. This shared positive dynamic drives their work together.
"You never can explain band chemistry," Mills added. "We all like each other. And we all admire each other musically. All those things come together and if it weren’t fun, we wouldn’t be doing it."
Mills' statement underscores the importance of personal connections alongside musical talent. The project is built on genuine camaraderie and shared artistic vision. This foundation is essential for any successful band.
Upcoming Releases and Tour Dates
Howl Owl Howl plans to release its first single, titled "My Cologne," on October 31. This release will provide the first taste of their collective sound. Fans anticipate hearing how the styles of these three musicians blend.
Following the single, the band has announced a series of live performances. The tour schedule was released on Friday, providing specific dates and venues. These shows will allow the band to connect with audiences directly.
Steve Gorman expressed his excitement for the upcoming live shows. He looks forward to performing the new music in a concert setting. The tour represents an opportunity for the band to fully unleash their sound.
"We’re finally going to get to plug in and let it rip a little bit," Gorman told Billboard.
The tour includes several cities across the United States. A notable performance is scheduled for November 8 at the Paradise Rock Club in Boston, Massachusetts. This venue is a well-known spot for rock music performances.
Did You Know?
Rick Noble, a member of Hootie & the Blowfish, donated his extensive collection of band memorabilia, including CDs, ticket stubs, an autographed guitar, and T-shirts, to the University of South Carolina on June 3, 2022. This collection highlights the band's enduring legacy.
Detailed Tour Schedule
The initial tour dates for Howl Owl Howl are concentrated in November. The schedule covers various regions, giving fans in different areas a chance to see the new supergroup perform live. Each venue is a known music spot, promising an intimate concert experience.
The tour kicks off in the Midwest before moving to the East Coast and then the South. This routing allows the band to reach a broad audience in a relatively short period. The performances are expected to showcase their unique blend of rock music.
Here is the full list of announced shows:
- November 3: Indianapolis, Indiana at The Vogue
- November 4: Chicago, Illinois at Metro Chicago
- November 6: Washington, D.C. at 9:30 Club
- November 7: Asbury Park, New Jersey at Stone Pony
- November 8: Boston, Massachusetts at Paradise Rock Club
- November 11: New York City, New York at Webster Hall
- November 12: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania at Union Transfer
- November 14: Athens, Georgia at Georgia Theatre
- November 15: Atlanta, Georgia at Variety Playhouse
These dates mark the beginning of what could be a significant new chapter for these musicians. The combination of their individual talents and collective experience creates high expectations. Music enthusiasts will be watching closely for their single release and live performances.
Impact and Anticipation
The formation of Howl Owl Howl generates considerable buzz within the music industry and among fans. The members come from bands that collectively sold millions of albums. Their previous work has left a lasting impact on rock and alternative music genres.
Darius Rucker's involvement is particularly noteworthy given his successful transition to country music. His return to a rock band setting is a key aspect of this new venture. It demonstrates his versatility as an artist.
Mike Mills and Steve Gorman bring significant experience from their respective bands. R.E.M. was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2007. The Black Crowes have also received critical acclaim for their contributions to rock music.
The supergroup concept itself often attracts attention. It allows established artists to explore new creative avenues outside their primary projects. This can lead to fresh musical ideas and unexpected sounds. The anticipation for "My Cologne" and the upcoming tour dates reflects this interest.
The band's decision to play in intimate club venues for their initial tour also suggests a focus on raw performance. This contrasts with the larger arena shows some of their previous bands might have played. It offers fans a more personal experience with the new music.