"Standing an average of 5 feet 7 inches tall, it’s easy to underestimate the front four members of Richmond, Virginia’s Halflit Halo. From the first note, however, it’s obvious that their talent far exceeds even the height of their 6 foot 4 drummer. What they are lacking in height, this skillful array of musicians makes up for in passion, ability and performance. It’s evident as the guitarists bounce around during the high parts and pace during the intense moments that the members of Halflit Halo are completely immersed in the experience that is their live show. Their stand out song is entitled “A Fire Escape from Purgatory,†and fans have strongly taken to it during shows. The mood of the song is very dramatic and evokes heartfelt emotion and a personal understanding in listeners.
Each member brings with them experiences from previous bands to create their unique blend of melodic hard rock. Kevin Hagaman, lead vocals, received training in a boys’ choir and fine tuned his skills in former Richmond-based bands Memory Fade, Fail-Safe, and Kabura. Peyton Dowdy, guitar, is self-taught and was the primary song writer for Richmond, VA’s Fallen Under. Stuart “Tripp†Coughlan, drums, is also self-taught and played in the Williamsburg Drum Corps and the metal band, Chalkline Beauty, before joining Halflit Halo. Previously of Fallen Under and Undertow, Jeb Bach is an accomplished self-taught guitarist who currently plays bass in the band, and Chris White is a jazz and classical trained guitarist. Chris & Jeb additionally supply backing vocals live and on recordings.Bach, Dowdy and White came together to form the idea of a new band in early September 2007. Within a few weeks, Hagaman was on board, and after a final line-up change, Coughlan joined up in October of 07. “Once Stuart joined the band things really started to click,†says Dowdy. “Everyone works really well together, and the writing process is very fluid.â€While the members are extremely focused and take their music seriously, the atmosphere they create is always light-hearted. “Practices are very loose. Everyone picks on everyone else and no one is too uptight. It makes it very easy to write music,†says Coughlan.This love for what they do and their desire to enjoy the ride carries over into each show. “We want our audience to be entertained. We take our live show very seriously but try not to be too dramatic. We want everyone to know we are having fun, and we goof off a bit on stage to get that point across,†Dowdy states. He continues, “Being on stage is one of the best feelings on the planet, especially if a crowd is really feeling what you are doing. All of us have played shows for 600 people, and we’ve played shows for six people, but if those six are really loving your music, it’s the same amazing experience.â€As with most musicians, the band’s goal is to create music that their listeners can relate to. “Our lyrics are personal, but we try to leave the details to the listeners. Being able to insert your own experiences into a song is key,†states Hagaman.Ultimately, the members strive to make Halflit Halo a touring band and support themselves through music. “We want to be able to share our music with as many people as possible,†states Dowdy. And while they hope to grow, there are many things that they hope they never lose. “We will hang on to our originality,†says Coughlan. “Everyone draws from different influences and puts them all together into this band. I think this helps us stand apart from others.â€What are people saying about Halflit Halo?
"Musically these guys have it together with ferocious moving melodies that remain underground enough to give these guys the cred they deserve, but mass appeal enough to burst into the mainstream."
Alyssa Holtgrewe - Universal Motown
"With a thick groove and infectious melody, Halflit Halo is fueled from the ashes of other prominent local acts. The harmonies that this quintet provides leaves the listener in a daze only to be awoken by the onslaught of heavy percussive guitars and drums. The vocals are very distinct, well thought out, and create an ambience reminiscent of Maynard from Tool. Pop-py enough to be radio friendly, yet heavy enough to create a huge live sound, you will get lost, in a good way, listening to Halflit Halo!"
CB Smith - Separated Music Studios
If you're looking for a band that has a sound and look all their own then do yourself a favor amd check out Halflit Halo and you'll find out why they're one of the best new acts to come out of Richmond, Virginia in recent years....These guys will leave you screaming for more and have you wondering why they aren't already international superstars.
Jason Houston - Rock Zone ProductionsSay Goodbye 5-14-08 @ The National
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Fire Escape From Purgatory 5-14-08 @ The National
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Divine Judgement 5-14-08 @ The National
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MERCH
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$15.00 (shipping included)
Purchase now and get our 2-song demo free!!!