For a band with a name that conjures up images of a fabled pied piper leading rats and children zombie-like away from their homes, the Mobile natives Hamelin are remarkably well-adjusted. With a youthful drive and a sharp sound, the four-piece seem to be drawing crowds away from their homes at every show.

Hamelin formed in the mid-2000’s, with frontman Ross Newell penning poignant rock lyrics and delivering them with a unique sound that instantly drew the attention of local radio stations. Soon the guys were winning local talent shows and jockeying for a spot on a small indie label.

The guys put together “Paintings on the Wall” in 2004, an album that draws much of its inspiration from ‘90s stars like Counting Crows and Pearl Jam, the group has sought to out-do itself. The album was a local hit and the group spent time playing local clubs and hand-selling 1,600 copies of the album.

Since their early success, the group has gone on to open for national acts and to play numerous large scale festivals, like Mobile’s annual BayFest. Recently the group has been added to the Pandora music project.

Their new album, “What You Make of It,” is far more singer/songwriter oriented, with the underlying sense of gained maturity. The group has cited Bob Dylan and Ryan Adams as current influences, both of which can be heard in their most recent numbers.

Hamelin will be performing at Opelika’s Eighth & Rail this Friday, Aug. 20th. For more info, tunes and dates check out myspace.com/hamelin.