Indie band performs in Portland

On Nov. 4 at the Arleen Schnitzer Concert Hall in downtown Portland, The Head and the Heart, an Indie band, performed for the release of their newest album, “Signs of Light.” And with the atmosphere, music, and bits of banter from the band members, the show was a success overall.

The concert started with an opening performance by Declan Mckenna, an Indie English singer best known for winning the Gladstonbury Festival’s Emerging Talent Competition last year. Even though his live music was a little loud and hard to hear, for some of the lyrics, there is plenty of depth in his songs, such as in “Paracetamol” and “Brazil.” He is on SoundCloud, YouTube, iTunes, and also has a small, four-song album titled “Liar.”

After intermission, and a chance to reset the mics and equipment, the magic happened. The Head and the Heart started off the night with “All We Ever Knew,” the first song on their new album, followed by “City of Angels,” also on the new album. They also covered music from their other two albums, such as “Ghosts” and “Sounds Like Hallelujah,” from “The Head and the Heart” along with “Let’s be Still” and “Shake,” from “Let’s Be Still.”

A few highlights of the night included lead singer Jonathan Russell preforming an off-album song on piano, which was dedicated to his best friend and his friend’s brother. Though untitled, it touched on both the struggles and memories of youth and looking back on it all, later on in life. Another high point was just some of the banter between the band members, specifically between Russell and Josiah Johnson, second singer and guitarist still recovering from drug addiction (it was rather impressive that he came, at all).

During a small break between songs when Russell was getting a drink, Johnso asked what was in the “sippy cup.”

“Water,” replied Russell.

“That’s some strong water,” responded Johnson. It got a good laugh out of the audience, along with the band as well.

I would rate the concert a 4.5 out of 5 bowler hats (which appear in some of the band’s music videos). The music was great, and at the end Russell thanked the sound and tech crew for getting everything set up and sounding great. Even though Russell covered for most of Johnson’s lines due to the latter’s condition, and the fact violinist and singer Charity Rose Thielen was a little stronger on vocals than in their recorded albums, their energy and enthusiasm made the night unforgettable.

For those curious to see them perform, or head back for more, The Head and the Heart return to Portland on Dec. 13 at the McMenamin’s Crystal Ballroom.

Ticket information can be found on the band’s website: www.theheadandtheheart.com.