Hollis Brown Members, Gear & Sound

Hollis Brown is an American rock band hailing from Queens, New York, known for their dynamic blend of roots rock, modern blues rock, and deep new Americana. The band was formed in 2009 by Mike Montali (vocals, guitar) and Jonathan Bonilla (lead guitar), who were later joined by Andrew Zehnal (drums) and Chris Urriola (bass). Taking their name from the Bob Dylan song "Ballad of Hollis Brown," the band is celebrated for their dedication to crafting heartfelt, authentic music that pays homage to the American rock tradition.

Hollis Brown's music is characterized by gritty, soulful guitar riffs and driving rhythms that capture the essence of classic rock 'n' roll. The band's sound is both melodic and rhythmic, with a focus on creating rich textures and dynamic arrangements. To achieve their robust and yet nuanced tone, musicians can explore using tube amplifiers for that warm, vintage sound, and overdrive pedals to add edge and sustain to their riffs. The layered guitar work often incorporates bluesy bends and slide techniques, while the rhythm section maintains a tight, energetic groove with punchy bass lines and dynamic drumming. For those looking to emulate Hollis Brown's engaging and timeless vibe, attention should be paid to balancing raw energy with melodic clarity in their instrumentation and production.