Hat Check Girl - 29 & Gone (2025)

This interesting duo has a rather cool & gratifying haunting sound to their lead off track “Twenty-Nine and Gone” – about Hank Williams’ last night on earth. It trudges along with a significant Henry Mancini (“Experiment In Terror,” “Peter Gunn”) type relevance. Peter Gallway (Fifth Avenue Band) sings in a seasoned, mysterious, dark & sensitive way. The vocals peel away in a savvy style that’s more so than, say, The Swans’ Michael Gira. It retains a low-flame folky element. Nothing bombastic, but it has a pinch of intensity.

Annie Gallup sings lead in a gentle Melanie Safka tradition (sometimes) & does a fine job on “Radio Darling” – a low-key, lo-fi tune, but has the makeup that compels one to listen closely & intently to her voice. It’s personal, breathy & intimate. I like this music; it’s expressive & penetrating.

There are 10 narratives to 29 & Gone produced by Peter (vocals/electric, acoustic & bass guitars/drums) & Annie (vocals/electric & lap steel guitars).

More upbeat & contemporary is the small-town story of “One-Stop.” To my ears, it sounds closer to what Peter did with The Fifth Avenue Band (“Fast Freight”). Catchy, Americana with impressionistic words. The vocals are balanced between Peter & Annie. The material is warm, rootsy & never replicates anything retro despite its generous dives into traditional styles.

As a duo they’re not as distinctive (yet) as Sonny & Cher were, Richard & Linda Thompson, or Clive Gregson & Christine Collister, but their musicality is just as creative & original. The songs have individuality & each tune possesses its charm, emotional resonance in an always vibrant mix. Nothing is played with reckless punch but do display consistent, competent playing with pleasing results.

I like that the songs don’t use typical mainstream lyrics – the duo tries to deliver with uniqueness. Some songs could’ve used a little more aggressive approach but that may not be their aim or style. They’re content with their showcase to paint with pastel, earthy colors rather than vibrant, thick oils. At least their music isn’t washed out in watercolors.

Songs like “The Light Beyond the Streetlights” have their electric guitar sizzle, & their dual vocals have a fervent drive. There’s more poignancy in their material than pulsating beats & Annie’s rosy vocal with gentle juvenile grace soundscapes is sincere in every respect. Peter’s always authentic as a musician – a survivor.