“The Hill has learned a thing or two about musical dynamics, positive pathos, and seductive sonics from the great and the good of an earlier golden age, and learned well.” – The Big Takeover
Philadelphia-based artist The Hill has unveiled his 12-song sophomore album Noble Station, produced by Mike “Slo-Mo” Brenner, who also produced Susan Werner – Halfway to Houston (Best Folk Album of 2024 – Folk Alliance).
The record explores themes such as part-time parenthood, dog companionship, romance, and lifelong friendships.
“It’s a delicate Americana sound, country pedal steel sonics, intimate balladic lyrics…in some gorgeous sonic textures and tones, drifting atmospheres and lilting beats,” says Dave Franklin of The Big Takeover. Noticing growing airplay in South Africa, Kowit decided to release the single “See You There” specifically for that market.
From Behind the Scenes to the Spotlight
The music of The Hill originates from Jon Kowit, who had spent years working behind the scenes in indie music with Brooklyn’s Ascend Records.
Kowit’s debut album Get In Line, released last year, quickly built a loyal following, leading to features as a WXPN spotlight artist, a 45-minute interview on WWUH’s Modern Twang, and consistent airplay across the U.S., Canada, Australia, and South Africa.
Kowit cites influences from the Laurel Canyon songwriters and classic country artists. “I’m definitely not trying to sound like anyone, but the songs have a foundation in some great music from a different era,” he explains.
Collaboration With Industry Veterans
Noble Station was produced by Brenner following a busy year working on projects including Wild Pink’s Dulling the Horns (Paste 2024 – Rock Album of the Year) and tracks with The Philly Specials, a project involving The Philadelphia Eagles, Stevie Nicks, and Jon Bon Jovi.
“Mike was juggling some interesting projects, but once we finished ‘Let This Storm Pass,’ we got into a flow with the rest of the tracks,” Kowit notes. John Anthony (Solas, The Brothers McMullen, Backstreet Boys) was brought in to engineer the album and also contributed performances on several tracks.
“I am just a music junkie lucky enough to connect with Mike and a group of notable indie rock veterans who know how to make great music with all the subtleties,” says Kowit. “It’s been gratifying to see the connection the music has made in some interesting places. We’re hoping fans enjoy the new album as much or more, and that it leads to more placements and touring.”
More info about The Hill
The Hill is the Americana project of Jon Kowit, a singer-songwriter, indie label partner, and former record store employee.
Following a reconnection with multi-instrumentalist Mike “Slo-Mo” Brenner, their initial collaboration on one track grew into the debut 12-song LP Get In Line in April 2024, which laid the foundation for the creation of Noble Station.
Watch this space for updates in the Music News category on Running Wolf’s Rant.
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