Music to heal the soul – that’s pretty much how Hearts&Mines began. Lead singer Matt Luloff is an Afghanistan veteran. He started to create music as a way to cope with the atrocious war memories. A first album came out in 2011 and in 2012, their EP “Panic” came out. That year, Hearts and Mines were runners-up in the LiVE 88.5 ‘Big Money Shot’ contest, which gave them $40,000 towards music development. They also had the opportunity to work with legendary producer Terry Brown (Rush) on their track “Enough of This”, which was featured on their next EP.
Matt and drummer Jason Watts both chimed in to answer our questions.
How would you describe your sound?
Hearts&Mines is an alternative rock band influenced by the post-grunge period as well as several other genres that we have all grown up with. For instance, Rob is heavily influenced by the melodic lines of Motown, whereas Matt is drawn in by everything from Matthew Good to Phil Collins to Chopin. Mike is classically trained in piano and loves weird Norse metal or whatever that dramatic funny metal is called. Jason is a hard rock fan while Mike loves modern pop punk. For us, it’s about melodies, harmonies and strong vocal hooks. We’re like if Jimmy Eat World had a baby with The Police, but handsomer.
How long have you been playing music, and how has your sound evolved over that time?
Four years ago, we started as a four piece with two guitars, bass and drums. We have added keys, everyone sings and we have matured as writers and as musicians. We have also worked with several people that have shaped our sound, merely by the virtue of spending so much time with them. We certainly have better pop sensibilities now than ever. We are better friends, know each other inside and out and can anticipate each other.
What are you hoping to get out of your Bluesfest performance? Fans, adoration, festival experience etc?
We just love to play music. We are hoping to have a great show, please our existing fan base and win over a few more. We love music and are honoured that someone likes it enough to listen to ours.
Are there any other bands on the bill you’re excited to see?
Certainly! It’s a great line up! BB King, Jimmy Eat World, Matthew Good, She and Him, Joy Formidable among all the other great acts joining us in Ottawa.
Favourite place to stay fresh and cool in Ottawa?
The Rainbow. They are so good to us there. Matt says the Dominion Tavern, because they manage to cram a whole lot of awesome in one small place!
Check out Hearts&Mines official video for the song “Fast Times”.
Hearts&Mines plays the River Stage, Sunday July 7 at 4:30pm.
