The Head and the Heart – Let’s Be Still (Album review)

The Head and the Heart’s new album Let’s Be Still was released October 5th 2013.  Although this marks their second album and also the second time teaming up with producer Shawn Simmons, it is the first written with the full lineup, showcasing every member’s influence and impression.

The six piece band began through open mic nights at a pub in Seattle, WA and consists of Josiah Johnson (vocals, guitar, percussion), Jonathan Russell (vocals, guitar, percussion), Charity Rose Thielen (violin, vocals), Chris Zasche (bass), Kenny Hensley (piano), and Tyler Williams (drums). Their sound is commonly classified as folk rock, though they outshine the often perceived simplicity of the genre.   With a unique style and musicianship they captivated audiences and soon started selling self burned copies  at live shows and local record stores, of what would become their debut album. The CD’s sold so well that the stores could not keep them in stock and they soon caught the attention of several labels, which culminated in their signing to Sub Pop.

While Let’s Be Still may not have the immediate pull of its predecessor, its slow burn has staying power. It is almost as if the earnestness of their self-titled debut caused them to need a moment of pause, making the title all the more fitting.  The first two songs, “Homecoming Heroes” and “Another Story” do not veer too far off the band’s familiar song formula, but the subject matter is a departure from the usual of love and self reflection. ‘Homecoming Heroes’ is a nod to returning soldiers and “Another Story” was inspired by the horrific Sandy Hook Elementary shooting in Newtown, CT. In the latter a chorus wonders in a lovely falsetto, “Can we go on like it once was?”

With the interlude “Springtime” leading into Charity Thielen’s first lead vocal contribution on “Summertime”, listeners may be in for a surprise. With compelling percussion and synth-charged drive, Thielen channels Karen O with her yelps and attitude. Though unexpected, the song works and is a fun groove of a listen.

“Shake”, which is the first single, stomps and claps its way into the listener’s head. Russell tells us, “The memories we’ve made will never be lost/The look on your face, we both knew the cost/But the wind, yes the wind keeps howling”, then infectiously howls right along with it.

Arguably, the quiet standout is “Cruel”.  It has the feel of a slow country waltz, with lush vocals eliciting yearning desperation. Russell and Johnson switch off on lead vocal here, which always adds an extra element to their songs.  However, the title track may be the pinnacle of Let’s Be Still with lyrics which evoke a sweet melancholy vibe and Zasche’s memorable bass playing a highlight.  “Gone” is the last song of the album, starting slow and quiet. It picks up throughout it’s six plus minute run-time, as the percussion and vocals grow louder. They close it out with a bit of self reference in one of the final lyrics, “It’s in your head and your heart/And you’re too damn scared to start”

With this album The Head and the Heart stay true to what their fans love about them, while expanding their sound and inventiveness. They have the wonderful ability to make the simplest of lyrics resonate deeply, due to their dazzling vocal harmonies and thoughtful delivery. When you factor in their instrumental prowess, you begin to understand why their following is quickly growing.  Let’s Be Still is an impressive effort for a sophomore album – or any album, for that matter. Crypticrock gives it 4.5 out of 5 stars.