by Keisa Reynolds

Contributing writer

Hollows is a band that seems to get by on talent, fun and chance. Originally inspired by ’60s group The Shangri-Las, Hollows started in 2008 after keyboardist and lead songwriter Maria Jenkins posted a Craigslist ad seeking a band to play with upon her move to Chicago.

Bassist Emma Hospelhorn, who had also recently moved to Chicago, responded to the ad, which included the words “’60s,” “girl group,” “the Shangri-Las” and “funeral.” Connections were made from there, and Hollows evolved into a four-fifths female band with members Jenkins, Megan Kasten, Hannah Harris and Jason Davlantes.

The band’s self-titled first album was released in 2009, and almost two years later Hollows was named one of the “11 local bands to watch out for in 2011” by the Chicago Tribune, despite not having a single out at the time. Hollows’ second album, “Vulture,” will be released by the record label Trouble in Mind in April, just in time for fans to add some sweet tunes to spring and summer playlists.

The Chronicle met up with Jenkins to discuss the band’s upcoming album, growing up and being an artist from a small town in Ohio.

The Chronicle: How did you guys choose the name Hollows?

Maria Jenkins: It sounded really good at the time. We thought there wasn’t a band named Hollows, but turns out there’s a Canadian band called The Hollows.

The Chronicle: How did you and your band members make the transition from your original punk sound to your current sound?

MJ: Our band is into the 60s girl group sound, but I don’t think we rely so heavily on that anymore. I’m just a huge fan of pop music. It’s easy to be kitschy, but I like to place an emphasis on songwriting. A couple of band members are also classically trained, and we had some people come on the new album, so you’ll hear some of that influence.

The Chronicle: What inspires you as the band’s lead songwriter?

MJ: The usual stuff—heartbreak, you know, frustration. The tension from when I grew up as a kid and kicking into adulthood. Ending your childhood and going out into the real world. The difference between where I grew up, which was very rural, and living in Chicago for the last six years.

The Chronicle: How has the garnered publicity helped the band?

MJ: When we put out our first album in 2009, we didn’t think anyone was going to listen, so it was a real welcome response when people locally responded to it. It made me want to do better this time around.

The Chronicle: How did you get in touch with the record label Trouble in Mind?

MJ: They’re some of our earlier supporters. I think we sent out an email before our first album came out, trying to get them to play our record release show. They said “We can’t play it, but we like you guys.” And they’ve always been really cool. They’ve come to a couple shows. We don’t have a contract with them, just our good word that we’ll promote the album.

The Chronicle: What are your future goals for the band?

MJ: Right now we’re focused on the album that’s coming out. We’re getting our tour together, trying to book our release show. We’re really focused on the album and making it really good. If some people like our new album, that’s enough for me.

The Chronicle: What about Chicago inspires your band, style and sound?

MJ: The local music scene here. People are very supportive. We’re one foot into the garage scene and one foot into pop.

For more information on Hollows, or to listen to their music, visit their website at HollowsChicago.com.