Hillel Arnold

Born and raised in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, Hillel Arnold has been making music his entire life. His first song was written in the bathtub at age three, and he has been writing ever since.

Arnold was raised on classical and folk music, and draws strongly on both these traditions to create his own unique sound, full of a lyrical and intellectual intensity that is unmistakable. His music is full of the melodies of Mozart, the harmonies of Bach and the dynamics of Beethoven, yet it also packs a potent lyrical punch, influenced by politically incisive artists such as Woody Guthrie, Pete Seeger and Bob Dylan. Yet Arnold’s circle of influences has grown to include an eclectic array of artists; from radical hip-hop duo The Coup to the traditional sounds of the Del McCoury Band; the quiet tragedy of Townes Van Zandt’s songs to the apocalyptic triumph of the Sex Pistols.

After releasing his self-titled debut in 2002, Arnold has recorded with two other groups, The Curb, a country-rock duo with his brother Chris, and The Mermaids, an indie-folk duo with Josh Gardner. He is the primary songwriter and frontman for both groups. He continues to play shows in the New York City area and is available for immediate booking.