Matt Hunter, a seasoned multi-instrumentalist with roots in indie rock greats like New Radiant Storm King, Silver Jews, and Savak, steps into the spotlight with his latest project, Overheard. Their debut album, Intertwined, represents Hunter's evolution as a bandleader, bringing together a group of talented musicians from bands such as Yo La Tengo, King Missile, and Band of Susans to create a sound that is both intimate and expansive.

From the start, Overheard blends genres in a way that feels fresh and dynamic, mixing folk and rock influences with touches of grunge. Their music shifts between serene, almost delicate passages and explosive, cathartic energy, crafting a rich landscape that’s both varied and cohesive. Hunter's road-worn, campfire-style songwriting is brought to life with the band's expert musicianship, resulting in a collection of songs that feel both personal and universal.

The band's origins are as unassuming as their music. Guitarists Erin Barth-Dwyer and Will LaPorte became fast friends in a Kingston, New York dive bar, sealing their bond with a vow to play together. From these humble beginnings, they built a sound that fuses Barth-Dwyer’s folk-inspired, fingerpicked guitar with LaPorte’s love of distortion and hard rock. Adding bassist Kenny Thomas completed their trio, which quickly became a staple of the Hudson Valley music scene.

As they honed their craft, their local performances at venues like Tubby’s and Avalon Lounge earned them a reputation for their unique "soft-then-hard" approach. With Barth-Dwyer’s vocals moving effortlessly from gentle lullabies to fiery crescendos, the band’s songs explore themes of home, memory, and the human experience, while LaPorte’s lyrics reflect on childhood and its enduring impact, all underscored by his chaotic guitar work.

The final piece fell into place when drummer Kenny Hauptman, a long-time friend of the band, joined after seeing them perform at a house show. His contribution brought the group’s sound into sharper focus, with his energetic yet precise drumming driving their dynamic shifts between calm and storm.

In early 2024, Overheard entered Pine Knoll Studio in Palenville, New York, where they spent a week working with producer Dylan Nowik. The result of this collaboration is Intertwined, a debut that’s as much a reflection of the band's journey as it is a bold statement of their potential. The album is an exploration of musical textures and emotions, with each track offering a window into the band’s diverse influences and their ability to weave them into something entirely their own.

With Intertwined, Overheard emerges as a powerful new voice in indie rock - one that balances introspection with energy, folk with grit, and delicate melodies with hard-hitting rhythms. This debut album sets the stage for a promising future, firmly placing Overheard on the map as a band to watch.