Like The Head and The Heart’s rabid fan base, I gobbled up their debut as if it were Thanksgiving stuffing. But we all know that gravy makes stuffing much better.
The Head and The Heart - Itunes Session (2011) – 7.4 / 10.0
Sub Pop
The Head and The Heart were “hearted” by many listeners before their move to Sub Pop earlier this year. After signing to the label and re-releasing their debut album, their popularity has only soared, even despite negative criticism thrown at their debut recording. Pitchfork called it a thoroughly timid, tentative take on Americana and AV Club shared the same sentiment. While all reviewers must be objective and give their honest opinions on albums, I felt that Pitchfork’s 3.8 rating was a bit vindictive, whereas a score in the 5’s wouldn’t have raised an eyebrow. Now the group has returned with an Itunes Session, performing six songs from their debut album (one added to their re-release) and two new songs.
I never was one of The Head and The Heart’s naysayers. I found their debut to be quite charming. However, I can understand the frustration behind Pitchfork and AV Club’s reviews of the original album, probably believing more deserving bands with a similar sound were being overlooked in favor of THIS group getting the silver spoon from Sub Pop. I felt the same frustration with Mumford & Sons ascent to the top of the alternative music charts, though I admit I don’t hate them either. Who cares that The Head and The Heart isn’t the best band in their genre. Their music is catchy, and it makes me smile. I can still like them without begrudging them for getting more attention than Hurray For The Riff Raff or Brown Bird. So like The Head and The Heart’s rabid fan base, I gobbled up their debut as if it were Thanksgiving stuffing. But we all know that gravy makes stuffing much better.
This Itunes Session is the gravy. “Lost In My Mind” and “Cats and Dogs” are both alternate versions of the originals. The latter song is chiefly different – slowed down vocals, thumping percussion. “I Lost My Mind” isn’t that far off from the version on the debut album other than being peppier. If this constitutes an alternate version, then the other original songs could be considered such as well. They’ve all been amped up to a degree that listeners are hearing the action packed versions, which I’m assuming is what the band brings to their live shows. The instrumentation is energetic and in fine form with Charity Thielen’s violin and Kenny Hensley’s piano still catching attention as they did on the debut. Jon Russell and Josiah Johnson’s tag teamed vocals are clear and infuse the lyrics with emotion. When Thielen’s voice pops in, it adds another bang to an already explosive combo. While some bands could simply “phone in” their performances for a session like this, The Head and The Heart go beyond doing carbon copies of the original songs, adding new life that listeners will enjoy. The two new songs aren’t throwaways either and hint at what’s to come from the band.
While many detractors will argue the same faults still exist in this release, fans should be pleased with what they’re getting. Like or not, no matter how you argue it, The Head and The Heart are an indie folk/Americana act, even if they’re not the most genuine of their company. Still, they are building a better appreciation for this type of music, and that will send listeners seeking other bands that some critics may deem worthier of attention.
Purchase The Head and The Heart - Itunes Session
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