Thee Heart Tones
Forever & Ever
Big Crown Records [2024]
Album Overview: Thee Heart Tones are a youthful band from Hawthorne, California, dedicated to advancing Chicano Soul. Led by vocalist Jazmine Alvarado, who is the eldest at 19, the group also includes Ricky Cerezo on keys and organ, Jorge Rodriguez on drums, Jeffrey Romero on bass, Peter Chagolla on lead guitar, and Walter Morales on rhythm guitar. Formed through a mutual love for music and a fortuitous collaboration, they quickly captured the attention of Big Crown Records, where they recorded their debut album. Forever & Ever presents a blend of new and classic sounds that pay homage to the Chicano Soul genre. The record consists of 14 tracks recorded in just five days, bringing together their youthful energy and seasoned production to craft a work that speaks to both tradition and modernity. Forever & Ever serves as a solid debut for Thee Heart Tones, a band that channels the rich legacy of Chicano Soul while introducing a fresh perspective to the genre. The album is a seamless blend of original compositions and thoughtfully selected covers, all recorded with a sense of urgency and passion that belies the group’s youth. Thee Heart Tones strike a balance between paying homage to their cultural and musical roots and exploring new sonic territory, resulting in a collection that feels both timeless and contemporary. Jazmine Alvarado’s vocals, in particular, stand out for their maturity and emotional resonance, anchoring the album with a soulful depth that complements the band’s instrumental prowess. The result is a debut that not only introduces Thee Heart Tones as a significant new voice in the Chicano Soul revival but also establishes them as artists with the potential to make a lasting impact on the genre.
Musical Style: The album showcases a mix of slow ballads and upbeat tracks, rooted in Chicano Soul with hints of Northern Soul, classic covers, and contemporary influences. Their sound is characterized by smooth vocals, steady rhythms, and a nostalgic yet fresh approach to soul music.
Evolution of Sound: Forever & Ever reflects Thee Heart Tones’ growth from a newly-formed band to artists with a distinct voice, balancing respect for their musical roots with innovative twists. Their journey from middle school connections to a polished debut reveals their commitment to blending past and present influences.
Artists with Similar Fire: Listeners may find similarities to groups like Brainstory, Pale Jay, Los Yesterdays, The Altons, and Thee Lakesiders, who also blend retro soul with modern interpretations.
Pivotal Tracks: Key songs on the album include the title track “Forever & Ever,” which sets the tone with its lively rhythm, “Don’t Take Me as a Fool,” has killer impactful vocals, and “No Longer Mine,” which stands out for its rhythmic intensity. Their covers of “Sabor A Mi” and “Somebody Please” further highlight their versatility and reverence for classic soul.
Lyrical Strength: The lyrics on Forever & Ever draw from themes of love, heartache, and identity, connecting generational experiences and cultural heritage. They resonate with a wide audience by incorporating both universal sentiments and personal narratives, emphasizing emotional depth and cultural pride.
THEE HEART TONES LINKS
Instagram | Facebook | Bandcamp | Big Crown Records
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