Ha Ha Tonka

Call it a case of Show-Me State pride, but plenty of St. Louisans have wondered why the boys in Ha Ha Tonka, from Springfield haven't broken into the stratosphere. We're lucky enough to be a second home for this spirited folk-rock band, and as such we've watched them grow into a can't-miss live act and an increasingly nuanced studio band. This year's Death of a Decade spawned the almost-hit "Usual Suspects," a mandolin-driven stomper that showcases the band's boundless heartland energy alongside its trademark four-part harmonies.

He's With the Band: Off Broadway's esteemed sound man Ryan Adams recently spent a few weeks on the road working sound and acting as tour manager for Ha Ha Tonka.