A nostalgic and relatable collection

HAERTS, the German indie-pop band, is out with their new album, Dream Nation. HEARTS consists of two members, Nini Fabi and Benny Gerbert. While only being a two-person band, their music manages to connect with many across the world. Their newest album has a similar effect, as it is a beautiful collection of songs in which they share their hearts and personal thoughts over dream-like production. 

The second track on the album, “It’s Too Late,” is a nostalgic escape. The song begins with a melodic piano solo that floats over the other instruments. The vocals come in, explaining the struggle of it being “too late” in a relationship to fix the past. The lyrics are filled with similes comparing the relationship to nature, creating relaxing images. The lyrics in the chorus repeat the line “too late,” which is backed with harmonies. The harmonies create a nostalgic feeling showcasing how the members of HAERTS feel about the past relationship. In the end, the instruments fade out, and a bold piano chord finishes the song. 

“Drift Away,” the fifth track on the album, is a slow emotional song with stripped-back production. The duo sings about someone drifting away from them, and there is nothing they can do to stop it. The melancholy track is filled with instrumentals that sound similar to the message of the lyrics. For example, the chorus describes someone drifting away, and the chorus guitars sound like the clouds slowly drifting across the sky. The vocals float over the instrumentals, and the gentle lead guitar that accompanies the vocals creates a melancholic sound that perfectly matches the lyrics. While the song is heartbreaking, the feelings communicated are sure to connect with many as the experience they sing about is relatable and perfectly articulated. 

The sixth track, “Why Only You,” starts with a beautiful piano and gentle drums. Then, they are joined by a synthesizer and heavier drums creating a more energetic, dance beat track. While the song may sound more optimistic and lively, the lyrics are emotional and heartbreaking. They sing about seeing a future with a person they are no longer with, and they know this person is moving on with someone new. This song takes the listeners on a journey, as it will leave them wanting to dance while simultaneously feeling heartbroken.

Lastly, the final track of the album, “No Shame,” is a comforting ballad. It begins with a gentle melodic piano and simple vocals. They attempt to comfort someone who is feeling defeated. The inspirational ballad understands the listener’s pain while simultaneously making the listener want to get back up and try again. The melody is comforting and tranquil, while the lyrics are inspiring. As the song fades out, simple vocals float over the soft piano and fade into the relaxing sounds of nature. The listener is left feeling calm and understood. 

HAERTS’s new album, Dream Nation, takes the listener on an emotional journey and leaves the listener feeling understood and content.