head and heart by Hawkns: Review

by Gabe Finch August 13, 2022

August 13, 2022

head and heart by Hawkns: Review

Hawkns is a three-year-old Connecticut band led by singer Hawkins French and brothers Rick, Joe, and Josh Frank. Following in the footsteps of their earlier successes, the band recently released “head and heart,” another catchy indie pop-rock project.

The song’s powerful drums, churning guitars, and head-thumping beat make it clear from the start that it has strong rock influences. There is an adrenaline rush packed into the way the song keeps pushing forward. But it’s Hawkns’s gritty, aggressive vocals that really slay it in the explosive, exuberant chorus. As an autobiographical artwork for the band, the single is about “being crossed between your head and heart in life’s bigger decisions”. Growing up in an abusive environment, the Frank brothers’ 17-year musical journey has been full of ups and downs. Joe, who showed early musical talent but couldn’t afford lessons, had to teach himself to play multiple instruments. Ricky, our bassist, is battling a rare muscle disease that once left him bedridden. When the band first got together, they were on the verge of losing their house. Hawkins, the band’s lead singer, worked tirelessly to overcome his substance abuse problem during this time. I have no doubt they mean every word in this song: “My body’s telling me to let go/But I can’t sooth these aching bones,” as well as the hopeful plea at the end: “Keep on running”.

Overall, “head and heart” is a well-crafted and heartfelt record that I would recommend adding to any playlist. Stream it right now!