LOST HEARTS - FIRST AND FOREMOST
Madison Imlay - @madison_imlay
Lost hearts is a 4 member band residing in Nashville, TN: Max Frye, Victor Adriel, Jt Shea, and Mitch Arnholt have been taking strides in making their mark on the current music world. There's no doubt that rock music has been on the rise again recently and these guys have definitely helped with that.
From artists like KISS whom they look up to, onto artists they've covered like Blue Oyster Cult, Billy Idol, Blondie, Aerosmith; these guys have a wide range of music tastes which often is evident in the way they release songs.
With their first single having released only a little over a year ago, they have worked diligently, it seems, to keep their passion alive. Last week, their first official EP was released, having three older singles and two completely new songs too. This project definitely is a testament to their talent and the ability they have to give a variety. I had the honor of listening to it and being able to break down my thoughts.
HATE YOURSELF
This was the first single from the band, which set the tone for the future. I think it was a very wise choice as it really draws attention from those who are looking for a modern day band to brighten their love of rock; with the heavy vocals and guitar parts it ignites that feeling of excitement. Not only is the instrumental great, but the lyrics are also very relatable. It talks about a feeling we all know of, heartbreak; yet instead of a sad or melancholy vibe, it takes the opposite side. It speaks of the recovery afterwards, and the feelings that come when you realize the person who left will one day regret their decision. This is shown through these lyrics
"Do you hate yourself for loving me? as much as I loved you?"
MAYBE I'D WANT YOU
When speaking of the uniqueness from this band, this song is a prime example. It shows their ability to bring a pop aspect into their music; pivoting more from the grittiness into a heavier rhythm section with more percussion and bass showing up. It, also, differs in that instead of leading up to a crescendo, it just reaches that peak almost immediately. This is the type of song that you hear at parties, or scream to while cruising with your windows down; the upbeat vibe leaves a boost of serotonin that just makes you want to dance. However, while it has a fun beat, the theme again centers around what could be considered a serious topic. Based on the lyrics, it seems to speak of a relationship between two people that aren't sure what they want; again, gaining brownie points in the relatability category. While it seems to be a toxic situation, it still allows the listener to connect on some level since it is a topic that most people deal with all the time.
"Maybe I want you, maybe I don't. Maybe I'll love you, maybe I won't"
ADAM & EVE
Out of the previous songs, this one fully branches into the pop category. The two before still had a rock aspect blended in, but this one seems to be a fully pop vibe. That is evident in the smoother, softer vocals, and the heavier tracks; It has more of a flow to it which seems to make it memorable. Like most pop songs, toward the end it goes into a low tone bridge; this allows for the listener to have a chance to really listen to what is being said but also leads efficiently into the crescendo of the song. Not only is it catchy, but this one has the deepest dive for the lyrics too; having a metaphorical comparison with the story of Adam and Eve. It really helps the listener to understand on another level by having a guideline of a story to compare to the real-world situation it mirrors. I really like that aspect of it overall.
"Take a bite of the apple, set your sinner free. Might not make it to heaven but i'll make you believe"
1024
Being the first of the new additions for this project, I was not sure what to expect from this song. As I've said before, this band has done very well at making songs that all fit into very different categories; however if I had to group it, it would go with Adam & Eve. It has that same pop aspect, that is very upbeat and elicits feelings of joy; what makes this song unique though is the focus on heavier guitar riffs and vocal effects. I think adding the echo effect to the vocals adds an element that blends in perfectly with the composition of the song.
THING CALLED LOVE
Out of all the songs, this one is my favorite by far: lyrically, instrumentally, vocally. It has the same gritty, rough vocals and heavy guitar as Hate Yourself. This one, in my opinion, leans more into an alternative-rock vibe than anything else; with the deeper tones, the heavier instrumental and the rasp in the vocals. It rounds out the EP quite well as it brings the listeners mind back to the rock roots of the band yet also shows their wide range in ability to write. Lyrically, it also makes a full circle moment; in the first songs, the main topic is heartbreak and working through it, which gets resolved in the end, when it seems there's a realization that real love isn't as easy to find. It gives a very "revenge" type of feeling, which while that may not be the intention, is what it seems like to me; on the other hand, it also proves that you can choose yourself and know that you deserve better.
"Tired of trying, yea I'm tired of buying time. I've been waiting for my soul to re-align. been working hard to get my fill."
Overall, this project was very entertaining to listen to; if it's only their first, I cannot wait to see what comes in the future. This truly is a prime example of the passion, hard work and determination artists can have to create. It holds an overall theme, yet each song is uniquely its own. I encourage you to give it a listen as well, and if you like it please be sure to check out all future endeavors.
