The Hiders: Music, Americana Style

The here's a good reason why The Hiders list Neil Young on their MySpace page as the first of many influences on their new album, Valentine.

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Young's spirit permeates throughout their songs, but there's also a musically robust Americana style that recalls such genre classics as Uncle Tupelo, Sparklehorse, Emmylou Harris and The Band. The Hiders also make a strong companion to current rustic rock artists such as Band of Horses and My Morning Jacket.

The band is fronted by a Cincinnati music veteran. Singer-songwriter-guitarist Bill Alletzhauser is a former member of Ohio alt-country group The Ass Ponys. Anchored by Beth Harris's sweet yet aching harmonies, The Hider's debut balances slow-burning love songs and full-on rockers with mesmerizing results.