The Head and the Heart

reviewed by Steve Thorngate in the March 22, 2011 issue

This new band's sound has roots in the indie-folk scene, with its moody treatments of simple chord progressions and Americana rhythms. But the larger thread here is classic pop, and Seattle's The Head and the Heart offers the complete feel-good package: polished songwriting, ambitious style changes and especially tight harmonies—the three singers, unmemorable by themselves, blend their voices expertly and joyfully.

The band shows some instrumental chops as well, particularly Kenny Hensley. It's always great to hear a young band with a piano player who isn't just a guitarist who dabbles. Hensley's tasty playing drives a lot of the band's earthy-yet-breezy sound. As the days get warmer, this could be the record you can't stop playing.

This review appears in the March 22, 2011 issue.

Steve Thorngate

The Century managing editor is also a church musician and songwriter.

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