Since today is National Chowder Day I Had to go with this one:

Lord Hobo’s New England Chowder IPA  brings a playful and creative twist to the style, blending the signature characteristics of a NEIPA with a unique homage to classic New England flavors.  It’s part of the “Collab Series” with Lobster Proper and brewed with Westminster Bakers Co. Oyster Crackers. 

From the moment you crack open the can you get a whiff of citrusy hops, a hint of fresh herbs, and subtle brininess. The pour is a gorgeous hazy gold with a creamy, frothy head that sticks around.

On the palate, this IPA boasts a silky mouthfeel, likely thanks to the oats and lactose. It  perfectly balances hop-forward citrus and tropical notes with a smooth, savory undertone. The moderate bitterness is expertly restrained, making each sip more inviting than the last. This brew really evokes a vibe of coastal New England. I wish I had a couple of boiled lobsters because this would be a perfect beverage to cut rich flavors from the melted butter and crustacean meat.  

The Sonic Pairing: With all the chowder, lobster and beach vibes I have to go with the album “That’s That” from Cape Cod’s The Incredible Casuals.  Anyone who witnessed their weekly Sunday matinee shows at The Beachcomber in Wellfleet knows they could drive a crowd of day drinkers insane with their tight, punchy pop rock songs and wild live performances that sometimes became drunken chaos.  “That’s That” is filled with that kind of energy.  Rock solid rhythms paired with super catchy hooks and Jan And Dean like harmonies.  Tracks like “Crazy Girl”, “I got To Move” and “Think About Me” will have you dancing like a possessed Baptist or at least spastically tapping your foot.  “Long As You Have Somebody Else” will bring a warm, sunny, Summer breeze even during the grayest New England Winter day.