Perhaps the follow-up to Hotline TNT’s 2023 breakout “Cartwheel” wouldn’t sound so bright, anthemic, and grandiose – in other words, uninterested in sticking to stylistic trappings – had the lovely sentiments of its predecessor not been amplified by devotion and confidence, not to mention the dynamism of Will Anderson’s touring band joining him in the studio. After many months of the road, the frontman was eager to return to the familiar, for him, introverted process of making another album, but guitarist Lucky Hunter, bassist Haylen Trammel, drummer Mike Ralston, and producer Amos Pitsch convinced him otherwise. If nothing else, “Raspberry Moon” is evidence that at least sometimes, such a leap of trust – for the people in the songs no less than the ones making them pays off.
After writing and recording his first two Hotline TNT albums almost exclusively on his own, Will Anderson decided it was time to go bigger. “Raspberry Moon” is the first Hotline TNT album made as a full band, and that added personnel is evident in the record’s heavy-hitting blend of power-pop and shoegaze. Amid all the fuzz, however, Anderson’s vocals still come out on top as he recounts the highs and lows of being newly in love. It’s a massive-sounding album for overwhelming emotions, with plenty of catchy melodies to help shake out the nerves.
Will Anderson – Guitar, Vocals Lucky Hunter – Guitar Haylen Trammel – Bass Mike Ralston – Drums
Hotline TNT performing live in the KEXP studio. Recorded May 12th, 2025.
Songs: Break Right 00:40 Julia’s War 04:25 Candle 07:16 Son In Law 12:07
The Fat Angel Sings 