Alexinder Gunn

if you were to walk into Bella Bagel Cafe on any given afternoon, you would never guess that the small coffee shop is home to one of Stafford's newest rock bands.

You also would never guess that humble shop owner Will Wobbe (lead guitar, mandolin) and one of his employees, Alexinder Gunn (acoustic guitar, vocals, harmonica), are the brains of the operation. Along with band member Daniel Hicks (drums, guitar, bass, background music), Alexinder Gunn and the Hole in the Wall Band have just released their first full-length album, titled "Mercy."

While the band remains true to good, old-fashioned rock 'n' roll, it has ingeniously infused its one-of-a-kind sound into the music.

Gunn's vocals seem almost like an instrument in their own right, hitting the sliding notes of numerous runs perfectly.

The drums on the album are just enough that Hicks ensures the presence of a percussive element--however, they do not take away from the airy, gentle sound of the group.

Wobbe's lead guitar adds a finishing touch to the record; the heartfelt and beautifully executed riffs give the band its characteristic sound.

The songs "Rain" and "Passion Addict" can be described only as ethereal, whereas "Drive" follows more of a grungy rock pattern.

"Ain't Gonna Miss You" is Dylanesque, and the closing track, "Time," is a soft, acoustic ballad.

Wobbe's electric guitar weeps in "Off the Tracks," making it sound almost like a lullaby. But you have to see the band live to truly appreciate the chill-inducing vocal harmonies on "Kiss the Sky."

You would not expect such an extraordinary sound to come from a bunch of average Joes, right here in our own backyard--you definitely want to check out this album.

And if you're interested (and trust me, you're interested), they play free concerts every Saturday night at--where else?--Bella Bagel Cafe in Stafford's Aquia Towne Center. - the Free Lance Star