Posted: by The Alt Editing Staff
Hoofian’s new Whirling isn’t just another EP from an awesome new band—it’s a reflection of years spent crafting, evolving, and refining a sound rooted in friendship and deep musical synergy. The forthright single “Two Truths” introduced this extended play with an energetic dance of melody shifting around a madlib of poetic wordplay. This EP serves as both a musical milestone and a testament to the unique bond between the band members.
At the heart of this multifaceted project lies the close-knit friendship of Mason Rogers, David Bedford, Mike “Maddog” Davis, and Stevie Dodge. The history here is one of natural evolution: Bedford and Rogers’ musical partnership dates back to their youth in Bayville/Island Heights in New Jersey. Later, their involvement in the New Brunswick DIY scene led to Davis joining in 2014, with Dodge entering the fold in 2018 and becoming, by all accounts, a member of the family. Through every iteration—from side projects like Gnawed Paw and Phulton to their work in Hoofian—the members have branched out, but always return to this shared space.
The EP is aptly named. Whirling is a tapestry of Rogers’ jangly, exploratory guitar work and Bedford’s intricately measured basslines, each phrase steeped in intention. The guitar riffs feel meditative, wandering purposefully between spontaneity and structure. Davis, meanwhile, navigates this soundscape with precision, marking each pause with a calculated rhythm that elevates the interplay between strike and silence. Dodge, typically on bass during live performances, shines here as a studio wizard, handling engineering, co-mixing with Davis, and mastering the EP.
Whirling flows like a lively dinner conversation among old friends, each voice distinct yet perfectly in sync. This is music created by friends who’ve grown together, embodying the warmth, complexity, and enduring excitement of a shared journey. Hoofian’s sound is evolving, yet grounded in years of collaboration, countless live shows, and an unwavering connection that speaks through every note.
Whirling is out now.
Disappointing / Average / Good / Great / Phenomenal
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Mol White | @molemanmedia
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