Wednesday 8 December 2021

Introduce Yourselves: HOVENWEEP

What is the name of your band?

Hovenweep

What is the genre of music that you play?

Psychedelic Stoner rock

Can you give a brief history of the band of how it came together and where it is today?

From Phoenix, Arizona, Hovenweep is the quartet of vocalist/bassist Mike Hintz, guitarist Michael Fornwalt, drummer Wade Von Bogs, and organist Jesse Mitchell. Since forming in 2018, the self-proclaimed "desert rock" band has made its name via sold-out live performances with the likes of Monolord, Red Fang, Phil Anselmo and the Illegals, and Elder.

Born from the heat of the desert floor, Hovenweep’s distinct style is an amalgamation of heavy rock influences, formed into a fuzz-laden mirage. The band members first met in high school, cutting their teeth in various bands performing in Phoenix’s metal, punk, and folk scenes. The quartet formed a fast bond which blisters through your speakers, driving the decibels in an almost telepathic fashion.

Hovenweep is starting to work on new material and will look to record a new album next year.


What can people expect from your music?

Hovenweep’s brand of heavy psychedelic groove-rock deep into the reaches of outer space, while still maintaining the in-your-face creative urgency of their earlier influences. At 25 minutes in length, the band uses these first four songs to push their creative vision far into the desert void. Riding on a sweat-soaked dust devil, propelled by fuzz guitar, thunderous drums and B3 organ from hell, Salvian Journey unfolds. 

Adding a dash of Sabbath and 90’s grunge to the mix, Mike Hintz’s bluesy baritone vocals embrace you with warm familiarity. Packed with “Swirling keys, monolithic riffs, gargantuan grooves and a sinuous vocal”, Chris Beck of Doom Tomb Podcast explains Hovenweep’s ‘Salvian Journey’ EP is “a must-have”.

What is the best release that folks should check out from your band?

Salvian Journey