Halestorm
ReAniMate: The CoVeRs eP

By Todd Jolicouer

I have to admit, I am not typically fond of covers. One thing I am fond of is the vocal ability of Lzzy Hale of Halestorm. She has surrounded herself with strong musicians: brother AreJay Hale on drums, Joe Hottinger on guitars, and Josh Smith on bass. What an odd choice for your fourth release – predecessors are One and Done EP (2006), Halestorm (2009), Live in Philly 2010 (2010). Not many bands can tackle covers and make it work, but while touring extensively for their self-titled label debut, Lzzy and the boys occasionally mixed up their live show by covering either some of their favorite tunes or current hits.

Of the six tunes, none are obvious choices for this group. Kicking off with Skid Row’s ‘Slave To The Grind,’ this disc pleases. Next up is my personal favorite, ‘Bad Romance’ – a very rock take on the Gaga hit. Digging into the 90s and alternative groove, the band offers up Temple of the Dogs ‘Hunger Strike.’ Lzzy even grabs a metal voice and puts her touch on G-n-Rs ‘Out Ta Get Me’.

If so-called chick rock is your thing, check out the cover of Heart’s ‘All I Wanna Do Is Make Love To You.’ Closer ‘I Want You (She’s So Heavy);’ is a fitting end to the program. A heavy take on the Beatles, but well worth the listen. The time spent digesting these songs is well worth it if you like Halestorm. If you just like new takes on old songs – without all the rearrangement and break down that typically happens – this is for you!