Sister Act: Touring indie trio, the Hottman Sisters, stops in Lewiston

By Tyler Horner

For Inland 360

Omaha, Neb., is known for its massive corn production. Maybe one day it will also be known for producing the Hottman Sisters, an indie pop/rock trio led by two sisters.

Jessica and Heather Hottman share vocals in the trio. Jessica plays guitar and writes the songs, and Heather plays the synthesizer. Drummer Ed Getzlaff completes the band. The group released its EP “Louder,” featuring the single “Fire” last week.

Inland 360 talked to Jessica Hottman before the band plays Sunday at the 3rd Wheel in Lewiston.

What was the first album you bought with your own money?

A lot of my early music was in the form of burned CDs from friends or from my mom, who would purchase a CD for my sisters and I to share. I believe the first album I bought with my own money was “When Everything Falls,” by Haste the Day. The music was loud and shocking, and I loved everything about it.

What band or artist changed your view of music?

In middle school, I discovered Imogen Heap on a bus ride. A friend sitting next to me put an earbud into my ear and I was mind-blown at what I heard. I had immediate chills and kept asking her to play that song again. The track was “Hide and Seek,” which has lots of layered vocals, moments of silence and basically no instrumentation. This song helped me realize that I could write music that is outside of the box. This song didn’t need big instrumentation to be moving, it was simple and powerful. As an adult, I am still inspired by the rawness and emotion in the production of her music and how relevant that music is to this day. Her work has definitely impacted how I approach my own songwriting.

What artist are you really into right now?

I am really into Lykke Li right now. I love her new record “So Sad So Sexy” and how she leaves lots of open space in the mix for her voice to stand out. I was fortunate enough to see her perform live this year and that really brought her music full circle for me. She incorporates lots of lyrical-type dancing with her set, and it’s magnetic to watch.

What song could you live without?

I think it would be any repetitive song. For example, “99 Bottles of Beer,” or “The Wheels on The Bus,” or really anything that gets stuck in your head and just won’t get out.

What musical act, dead or alive, would you love to see in concert?

I would have said the National, but I finally got to see them live this year. That was amazing. I would love to see Justin Timberlake in concert. I have been a fan since the NSYNC days, and I think he is an incredible live performer, musician and dancer.

IF YOU GO
WHAT: The Hottman Sisters

WHEN: 6:30 p.m., Sunday, Oct. 7

WHERE: 3rd Wheel, 1634 Main St., Lewiston

COST: $10 in advance, $15 at the door