The Local Strangers

On "When We Were Honest," The Local Strangers mine the intersection of simmering indie Americana, 70’s-tinged sweeping rock explorations, saw-dusted country and mesquite-smoke blues – and strike gold. Aubrey Zoli and Matt Hart could each front a band in their own right. Together Zoli, soaring and honeyed, and Hart, rough-edged yet elegant, elevate their work with The Local Strangers to something truly timeless. Grounded in arresting vocal harmonies and assured, assertive musicianship, "When We Were Honest" is sexy, proud, and just a touch bittersweet.

The record follows "Take What You Can Carry" (2015) and "Left For Better" (2012). The years following their last release were fraught, filled with life changes and personnel shifts in the lineup of Zoli and Hart’s raucous five-piece backing with whom they often perform. “We had a lot of worry about what this band meant” says Hart. “Eventually we had a revelation about the place that the band fit into each of our lives. We re-centered, got honest, and focused on happiness and fulfillment. The album title really resonates in that context.” The record encourages listeners to take the time to rediscover what is truly important in their lives and find the spirit to move on from what doesn’t serve you.