One could perhaps trace the music of Erik Hansen back to a dozen or so influences from the 70s and the genesis of hard rock. Driving Deep Purple rhythms, meaty Black Sabbath riffs, and bold, brash production that calls many memories from that decade of timeless hard rock.
The third volume of Seasons of the Wind might be Hansen’s heaviest to date. A singer, songwriter, and guitarist based in Warmbeach, Washington, Erik Hansen’s strain of hard rock music never fails to captivate us with its directness and clear-cut display of passion towards this color of music, a color that Hansen readily excels at.
With the weighty and scruffy riffs and hammer-fisted beats, Seasons of the Wind III progresses with such confidence and flamboyance as could be expected from an album of this genre. The 4 song EP starts with the explosive forward drive of ‘Never Alone’ and its galloping riff. An exhilarating display of Hansen’s gifts at writing juicy riffs, ‘Never Alone’ is an exciting introduction to the EP. ‘Free Me’ might not have a galloping riff, but it is a song with fantastic momentum, nonetheless. Its melodic riffs and uber-heavy guitar tones, as well as its solid groove, make for an exceptional listen. ‘Take Me Home’ is a sweet departure from the heavy rock format for a spot of acoustic balladry. Brimming with acoustic instrumentation playing unforgettable melodies behind Hansen’s passionate vocals, it might be a departure from Hansen’s tried and true formula, but it is a very welcome experiment that showcases the emotional range Hansen operates on.
Seasons of the Wind III features some more of the rocker’s terrific riffing and passionate vocals and relatable lyrics. An artist with a distinct sound and style, new hard rock from Hansen has come to always be a welcome addition to the day.
