If you’re looking for an album that brings together rock, classic and jazzy vibes, “Wednesday in Winter” by the Stone Hill All-Stars is worth a listen. This album’s 11 tracks are all well-crafted, combining catchy instrumentation and beautiful and rich vocals. The sound feels like a blend of rock, folk, jazz and even hints of polka, with each song giving off a unique and refreshing style. The lyrics are memorable and easy to connect with while the melodies have a timeless quality that will stay with you.
The Stone Hill All-Stars aren’t new to the music scene. These Baltimore-based musicians, Hoppy Hopkins on drums, Paul Margolis on guitar, bass and vocals, Dan Naiman on bass and saxophone, Tim Pruitt on guitar, and John Shock on piano, accordion and vocals, have been playing together for years, honing their skills and deepening their connection. They’ve supported iconic names like Jimmy Buffet, Dr. John and Greg Kihn, and it’s clear their experience has paid off. Each track on this album showcases their ability to produce polished, high-quality music while still sounding natural and heartfelt.
Two standout tracks on this album are “Beard & a Banjo” and “The Highway Call”. These songs showcase this band’s versatility and ability to evoke different emotions through their music. Both tracks highlight the band’s skill at storytelling and their ability to shift between moods seamlessly.
“Beard & a Banjo” kicks off with lively instrumentation, featuring upbeat rhythms and catchy vocals that pull you right in. The song’s energy is infectious with each instrument layering on a toe-tapping groove that feels both joyful and authentic. The vocals here have an inviting warmth, making you want to sing along from the first listen.
In contrast, “The Highway Call” slows things down with a sad melody that taps into the emotional side of the album. The instrumentation here is simple but incredibly effective, allowing the vocals to take center stage. There’s a raw honesty in the delivery that feels deeply touching and the stripped-back arrangement draws you in, making every lyric feel even more impactful.
Greg Kihn once described The Stone Hill All-Stars as “great songs, inventive arrangements, and timeless kick-ass roots-rock by guys who can really play.” That description rings true in this album. The band’s skill and chemistry are on full display, from the catchy guitars to the smooth saxophone lines. The production here is impressive, too, everything is mixed well with each instrument shining through in the right moments.
As writers who enjoy authentic and inspired music, we found “Wednesday in Winter” a joy to listen to. Each track brings a new flavor and we can easily imagine replaying this album. It’s the kind of music you want to share with friends. Whether you’re a longtime fan of roots music or just curious about The Stone Hill All-Stars, this album has something to offer.
