From Amsterband to Ha Ha Tonka

Why did we change the name, you ask?

There are a few reasons for us changing the name... none of which have anything to do with our style, members, label signing, etc. We are the same band moving in the same direction, only now with a new name. The foremost reason is because of two existing bands - "Amsterdam" (Based out of the UK) and "The New Amsterdams" (Kansas City, MO). Both bands are quite a bit higher on the "ladder-o-rock" at this point, so out of respect for them and some fear of confusion in the Amsterworld we decided it best to put some new letters in front of what we're doing. It had also came to our attention many times that "Amsterband" could and has backed us into the same corner as the "hippie jam band" world. That's a great world, but a far cry from what we're doing, so we couldn't help but feel a bit uneasy about that instant label... especially with the national release coming up, and the hope of some new and vast exposure. Please keep in mind, this was a daunting task for us. Ever since SXSW we've been battling with name after name to figure out what best suits us. The more we battled the more we realized that whatever name we picked we were pretty much going to have to grow into it rather than just instantly "be" that name. We've been "Amsterband" for so long now... how could we just put on a new outfit and not have people think it's strange? So after more than a month of tossing out names, laughing, crying, fighting and keeping all of this a secret, we have decided to go with a name completely original to the Ozarks. So without further ado…our new name is Ha Ha Tonka. All of you old fans, take it in. Say it to yourself a few times. Let it roll off the tongue. : ) Here's a little background from whence the new name is derived - http://www.mostateparks.com/hahatonka.htm

We ask that you please update and change all of your myspace and facebook stuff that says "Amsterband"... and just ride it. It'll grow on you. It has us. We love you guys for accepting us for who we are, name change or not, and we'll continue to do what we do…footstomp and be crazy. Ha Ha Tonka it is!