The Hiders

Echoing country-rockers Tom Petty and Neil Young, the Hiders grew out of the solo songwriting exploits of frontman Bill Alletzhauser. He played with various thrash and punk bands throughout his teens and got his first real taste of success with a metal outfit called Grinch, which opened for bands like Nirvana and the Afghan Whigs. It was during his stint with the Ass Ponys that he connected with producer Brad Jones, who took an interest in Alletzhauser's songwriting talents. Encouraged, Alletzhauser booked some time at a Nashville studio and invited his friends Beth Harris, Toby Ellis, Tyler Ramsey, Dave Gilligan, Victor Strunk, and Todd Drake to join him on his first album. Alletzhauser and his motley gang of musicians dubbed themselves the Hiders, and their debut, Valentine, came out in 2006. ~ Margaret Reges, All Music Guide