Howl Owl Howl: R.E.M., The Black Crowes, and Hootie Walk Into a Band…

It’s been a minute since we’ve had a proper rock supergroup, but that dry spell is ending thanks to a new trio with one of the most tongue-twisting names in music: Howl Owl Howl.

The project brings together R.E.M. bassist Mike Mills, Black Crowes drummer Steve Gorman, and none other than Darius Rucker, a.k.a. Hootie himself. Yes, that Hootie.

The band is describing their sound as roots rock with an alternative flair, which makes sense considering the mix of backgrounds here. R.E.M. was a defining force in alternative rock, the Black Crowes drummed deep into Southern rock, and Darius has spent the last decade-plus as one of country music’s biggest crossover stars.

Put all that together, and you’ve got a recipe for something that could appeal to both nostalgia-loving rock fans and a fresh wave of listeners who never knew they needed Hootie back in his rock element.

Their first single, “My Cologne,” is set to drop on Halloween, giving fans a taste before they head out on a tour that kicks off November 3rd in Indianapolis, and judging by early buzz, tickets are likely to move quickly.

For Darius Rucker, this isn’t just a side project; it feels like a return to form. He’s been a successful solo country artist for years now, but in his own words, “It feels great to be singing with a rock band again. It’s like buddies getting together, but also getting to play with your idols.”