The Wandering Hearts – “Devil”

SXSW 2020 – OEB Score: 7; Popularity Index: 7

Pairs Well With…Dixie Chicks, Roscoe Bandana, Fleetwood Mac

This band might be something of a guilty pleasure listen if you dig guy/girl alternating vocals, pretty harmonies, lots of “oh, ohs” and handclaps in upbeat choruses. The Wandering Hearts find a way to bring these elements to almost every song.  The band mixes folk, Americana, and country but delivered in British accents.  Each member of the foursome is a gifted singer ranging from sweet to gritty. Overall, their upbeat stompers are more fun and engaging than their slower tempo songs, but luckily, the former are more prevalent in their repertoire. The Wandering Hearts have done well on this side of the Pond and claim to be the first U.K. band to debut at the Ryman and the Grand Ole Opry in the same week.  So, if this band ends up on your SXSW guilty pleasure list, you will apparently have a lot of company.  “Devil” gives you a good entree to the power-pop country of this band, which should translate well to their live show. (David Zlotnick)