The Pine Hearts have done something truly special with Lost Love Songs, an album that keeps classic bluegrass and “newgrass” in a delicate and meaningful balance. From the opening strum to the final note, this record is a celebration of everything that makes roots music so timeless—honest songwriting, tight harmonies, and an undeniable sense of heart.
What stands out most about Lost Love Songs is its authenticity. The Pine Hearts aren’t trying to be anything they’re not, and that’s part of what makes this album so engaging. The title might suggest tales of heartbreak, and while there’s certainly plenty of that, the band approaches these themes with a warmth and sincerity that make even the sadder moments feel comforting. It’s the kind of album that feels like a conversation with an old friend, where the melancholy is balanced by a sense of hope.
The harmonies throughout the album are nothing short of beautiful. In tracks like “Wouldn’t You Know” and “Oceans and Limousines,” the vocal blend between Joey Capoccia, Derek McSwain, and Dean Shakked is seamless, weaving together layers of emotion that add depth to every song. You can hear the influence of classic bluegrass and old-time music, but The Pine Hearts manage to keep things fresh with their own modern twist. There’s a lightness to their harmonies that reminds me of bands like The Avett Brothers or Mandolin Orange, but with a distinct character all their own.
Instrumentally, The Pine Hearts shine as well. From the rhythmic drive of the mandolin to the steady foundation of upright bass, there’s a sense of cohesion and purpose behind every note. One of the standout tracks, “Bones of the Vineyard,” perfectly encapsulates this synergy, with the interplay between the fiddle and guitar creating a rich, textured sound that pulls you right in. It’s the kind of musicianship that feels fluid and energetic featuring guitar, bass, fiddle, mandolin, and banjo. This is a sound that has been made in this part of the world for nearly two centuries; it’s nice to hear it’s alive and well.
But what truly sets Lost Love Songs apart is the songwriting. There’s a simplicity in the lyrics that belies their emotional weight. Songs like “Losing You” and “Unrequited Days” deal with the complexities of relationships, but The Pine Hearts deliver these messages with a gentleness that feels refreshing. They don’t overcomplicate things; instead, they trust the listener to feel the weight of the words on their own. It’s a level of maturity in songwriting that’s rare, even in a genre so focused on storytelling.
At its core, Lost Love Songs is an album about connection—whether it’s love lost, love found, or the relationships that sustain us through hard times. The Pine Hearts have created a collection of songs that feels timeless, grounded in tradition but with enough modern sensibility to feel current. There’s an ease to their music that invites you in and makes you want to stay awhile, and that’s a gift in itself.
If you’re a fan of heartfelt Americana, bluegrass, or folk, Lost Love Songs is an album that will resonate deeply. It’s the kind of record that feels equally at home in your living room or on a long drive through the countryside—full of warmth, heart, and songs you’ll want to play again and again.
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