The Head and the Heart

While browsing for new music with the remainder of my birthday money, what instantly captured my attention when I came upon this unique and unfamiliar band was their strange album artwork. On a simply put, “what the hell” moment, I found myself purchasing the Head and the Heart’s self-titled CD, and despite their unknown name and sound, I truly do not believe I have ever been more in love with a band at first listen.

Originating from Seattle, Washington, the Head and the Heart were formed in 2009; slightly justifying my lack of familiarity with the group prior to buying the album. Although fronted by Josiah Johnson and Jonathan Russell, the two male vocalists, an exceptional element of the band’s indie-folk sound is due to female vocalist, Charity Rose Thielen. Her voice, as well as her violin prowess, affixes yet another inimitable and essential component to their overall fundamental oddity. Of course, substantial credit must also be attributed to their amazing pianist, Kenny Hensley, bassist Chris Zasche, and drummer, Tyler Williams.

In addition to the undeniable passion emitted in every song, the poetic lyricism speaks for itself. The entire album’s frequent fluctuation in tones and melodies makes it truly impossible not to find at least one song to soothe a variety of wounds. Commonly associated with opening for bands such as Iron & Wine, Vampire Weekend, and Death Cab for Cutie, it is a mystery to me why more people are not listening to these young and talented musicians. Check them out above performing, “Rivers and Roads,” one of their slower and more heartfelt songs that can be found on their inspiring and artistic self-titled album that I can personally guarantee you will not regret buying.