HT Heartache CD Review

HT Heartache
Swing Low
Self-released
****
Evocative and moody music for fans of alt-country
If you like your country a bit more alternative and perhaps a little moody, maybe even a bit edgy then you need to check out the debut album by HT Heartache. SWING LOW was recorded over three rainy months in Los Angeles. This album is quite dark, maybe even a bit bleak but above all it is interesting and definitely different. Compared to artists like Cat Power, Jenny Lewis and Neko Case, HT Heartache’s blend of alt-country is soft and most definitely evocative with a touch of folk/rock. The album opens with Arizona, which is a gentle flowing song. The instrumentation matches the vocals, which are almost ghost like in quality. John continues on in a similar vain. Here the vocals are haunting and seem to linger on long after the song has faded away. Obvious comparisons could be drawn between HT Heartache’s music and that of Sarah McLachlan, but this music is different on many levels. HT Heartache builds up an atmosphere through her songs. The music and vocals suggest you are listening to something rather special. Hearts Are Toys is a slightly more modern sounding song, with echoes of folk and rock blended into the haunting mix. Hey, Lee features some stunning vocals that fluctuate in style and tempo perfectly. Hyperion Tavern has a unique sound similar to that of Emmylou Harris on her album WRECKING BALL combined with a touch of Neko Case. A lovely song with some amazing vocals, which sound fractured and raw. Hymnalayan is a delicate piece of music with something of an oriental theme. Tear For The Ages is one of the highlights of the album. The vocals here are organic and really pleasurable to listen to. Turn Back ends the album on a high. This is another excellent song with strong vocals. This song has a life of its own, the instrumentation is dramatic and the overall feel of the piece is quite evocative and moody. This is an amazing album full of stunning music. This album won’t be to everyone’s liking but those who do find themselves listening to it will enjoy the songs as much as they would a good book.