My first introduction to As Tall As Lions came when Darby was on tour as a drum tech for Under the Influence of Giants. The Giants were opening up for the Lions. He phoned me from the road and and told me about this band that brought a fierce intensity with them on stage every night, as if each night was the first time performing each song. The picture above truly demonstrates how much the rhythm section brings it.  It’s not often Darby recommends that I listen to a band, especially with so much enthusiasmnbehind the suggestion. I immediately listened to their self titled album release in 2006. I loved it. With songs like ‘Ghost of York’ and ‘Love, Love, Love’ I was drawn in on first listen.

The boys of ATAL have released a new album in late 2009, You Can’t Take it With You. While the album does not seem to capture the same energy that the group emits on stage, I still see a lot of promise in these guys. If you ever get a chance to check them out live I highly recommend it.

— Jason Abraham