12 Lb. Test

After leaving Slobberbone, guitarist Michael Hill formulated 12lb.Test in 1997 as an outlet for performing his own songs. The Denton, TX-based band (Hill, bassist Michael Alves, guitarist Jake Williams and drummer Steve Hill) creates music that combines the roar of rock ‘n’ roll with melodic twang. Harm’s Way reels in catchy roots pop (“When We Didn’t Know”), Steve Earle-like rockers (“The Great Unknown”) and even an exquisitely desperate plea for forgiveness (“Peace Offering”). With Hill’s passionately sung lyrics, the dual guitar fireworks and a deep-rooted sense for hooks, 12lb Test’s sparkling debut makes for a bountiful haul of Texas-bred alt-country rock.