The usual areas of distinction in central Ohio are the realm of sports – Buckeye football and, less often, basketball. Angela Perley and The Howlin’ Moons are blazing a new path of distinction for central Ohio in music. I heard them the first time this past summer at a free Sunday concert at the Gazebo in Goodale Park. My reaction was simply, wow! these guys are from Columbus? Led by singer-songwriter Angela Perley, a 27-year-old from Hilliard and graduate of Ohio University, she and the Howlin’ Moons have an original, captivating and exciting sound that is unforgettable. Rather than try to describe Angela and the Moons myself. I will cite other recent reviews: "Angela is a total original, thoroughly unique; Cross between Michelle Shocked and Lucinda Williams and that’s a heavy compliment in itself." - Jon Peterson, Shakin It Radio (Dec 03, 2011) This was the first band I have heard in decades that made me smile. Perley wears 1950s shades behind a knowing smile as she sings out her warm, captivating lyrics and she plays – a saw - yes, a woodcutting handsaw – like nothing you've ever seen before. The Howlin’ Moons are more than competent musical backup for Perley. Led by the artful and gifted guitar playing of Chris Connor, the musical interchange between Angela and the Moons is often delightful and, at times, almost blissful. It is certainly a treat. Though they call their music “country” her first EP was labeled “folk.” Even if the best of their music has some country licks, it simply defies category. I found myself initially reminded of The Lovin’ Spoonful, at least in spirit, but there is even a trace of Janis Joplin in Perley’s heartfelt full vocals. Even with some similarities to other artists, there is little doubt that Perley is progressing into a distinguished original in her own right. On top of it all, there is even a literary dimension to Perley – she has written poetry and drama and likes Yeats. Being from Hilliard, she has a down-home side too. She admires The Carter Family, Patsy Cline and Loretta Lynn, as well as Bob Dylan. The band has been performing together since 2009. Their initial recording was the EP Black Cat in August 2010. It was followed by Yellow Moon (June 2011), and Fireside (Dec 2011). Their most recent EP is Nowhere is Now Here (Nov 2012). Perley and the Howlin’ Moons have just released their first single, Hurricane. After many requests, Hurricane now has regular rotation and frequent play on CD 102.5 Columbus’ independent music station. The new single is going to be featured on their first full length record called Hey Kid, which will be out in January 2014 (January 21st is the official release date). There will be a CD Release for Hey Kid in Columbus on January 17th at Skully's Music Diner- doors open at 9pm. In her spare time Angela Perley supports arts and music for children of all backgrounds. Angela and the Moons are playing at a large benefit concert December 14th at the Lincoln Theater to benefit Music Loves Ohio. The goal is to provide funding and opportunities for under-served youth to pursue their passion for music. Here is link to the event: http://www.musiclovesohio.org/614thekids/. In conjunction with several other Columbus bands, they recorded a classic Christmas LP that benefits Music Loves Columbus, (In addition to the show at Lincoln Theatre). For the recording, Perley and the Moons did their own version of Buck Owens’ “Santa Looked a lot like Daddy.” The holiday record releases November 26th and the tickets for the benefit show on December 14th went on sale November 5th. Fortunately, Angela Perley and the Howlin’ Moons have several upcoming shows right here in Columbus: the first is November 15th at Natalie's Coal Fired Pizza & Live Music, 10pm-11:30pm Tickets $10. Natalie’s has a special listening room environment so there will be a lot of softer numbers and semi-acoustic play. Next the Woodlands Tavern backyard, 668 Grandview Avenue on November 22 at 9:00 p.m. tickets $10. The Rumba Café on Summit Street near Hudson on December 6 at 8:00 p.m. Tickets $8. And of course don't forget the Lincoln Theatre on December 14. See them. You'll be glad you did.