The Head And The Heart

The Head and the Heart: Crafting Soulful Indie Folk Introduction to The Head and the Heart The Head and the Heart, an indie folk band known for their rich harmonies and evocative lyrics, have become a significant presence in contemporary music since their formation in 2009. Hailing from Seattle, Washington, the band blends Americana, folk, and rock influences to create a sound that resonates deeply with listeners. Formation and Early Success The band was formed by Jonathan Russell and Josiah Johnson, who initially came together to perform at local open-mic nights. Their chemistry and shared musical vision quickly attracted attention, leading to the addition of Charity Rose Thielen, Matt Gervais, and Kenny Hensley to the lineup. Their self-titled debut album, released in 2011, was met with critical acclaim and commercial success. The album’s blend of heartfelt lyrics and lush instrumentation, showcased in tracks like “Lost in My Mind” and “Rivers and Roads,” established The Head and the Heart as a compelling new voice in indie folk. Growth and Evolution Tears and a Song In 2013, the band released their second album, Let’s Be Still. This album further solidified their reputation, featuring a more polished sound while retaining the raw emotion of their debut. Songs like “Shake” and “Another Story” explored themes of introspection and personal growth, expanding their musical range and lyrical depth. However, the band experienced internal challenges during the recording of their third album. Josiah Johnson’s struggles with substance abuse and the departure of founding member Matt Gervais left the group facing uncertainty. Despite these hurdles, they released Signs of Light in 2016, which marked a departure from their earlier, more introspective sound towards a more mainstream, upbeat style. Tracks like “All We Ever Knew” and “Rhythm & Blues” showcased a more polished production while maintaining their signature lyrical storytelling. Recent Work and Continued Evolution Living and Growing The Head and the Heart’s fourth studio album, Living Mirage (2019), continued their evolution. The album, produced by Jay Joyce, featured a more streamlined and radio-friendly sound, blending their folk roots with elements of pop and rock. Songs like “Missed Connection” and “Honeybee” highlighted their ability to adapt to changing musical landscapes while staying true to their core emotional resonance. Live Performances The band’s live performances are known for their energetic and engaging nature. They have played at major festivals like Bonnaroo, Lollapalooza, and Coachella, showcasing their ability to captivate large audiences with their vibrant stage presence and dynamic sound. Notable Shows and Highlights Newport Folk Festival, July 29, 2018 One of their notable performances took place at the Newport Folk Festival in 2018. The festival, renowned for its celebration of folk music and its historic significance, provided a fitting stage for The Head and the Heart to deliver a memorable set. Their performance was a testament to their growth as a band and their ability to connect with audiences through both their new and classic material. Recent Tours The Head and the Heart’s tours often feature a mix of intimate venues and large-scale festivals. Their ability to adapt their performance style to different settings highlights their versatility and commitment to engaging with their audience. The Head and the Heart’s journey from their humble beginnings to their current status as a prominent indie folk band reflects their dedication to their craft and their ability to evolve. With a discography that spans introspective folk to more mainstream sounds, the band continues to captivate audiences with their heartfelt lyrics, rich harmonies, and dynamic live performances. Their story is one of growth, resilience, and a deep connection with their fans, ensuring their place in the contemporary music landscape.