Brand New Heartache - New Alchemy - Review
NMR - For me this has the distinct Blondie 8o's pop sound, tight guitar sounds, upfront drum rhythms, and a solid groove.
The dual vocal tones work well together, creating depth and harmonies, the guitar licks are catchy, as is the chorus, the track has a fresh feel good vibe, one for your summer playlist .
About - Brand New Heartache
Brand New Heartache, the husband-and-wife duo of Eleese and Matthew Meschery, blend Americana roots with anthemic indie-pop and rich vocal harmonies. Originally formed in Oakland, California, the pair relocated to Madison, Tennessee in 2022, positioning themselves within the heart of the Nashville music scene.
Since the move, the duo have developed a polished and emotionally resonant sound, working with session musicians connected to Chuck Prophet, Counting Crows, and Aimee Mann. Their growing presence in East Nashville is building momentum ahead of a forthcoming release on Mule Kick Records.
Their music centres on themes of love, resilience, and emotional honesty. Songs explore the tension between devotion and doubt, capturing the realities of long-term relationships with depth and authenticity. The result is a sound that feels both intimate and cinematic.
The band name draws inspiration from the classic song made famous by Emmylou Harris and Gram Parsons, whose influence can be heard in the duo’s vocal chemistry and melodic sensibility. Their debut album reflects this heritage while delivering a modern take on Americana and indie songwriting.
The record features a strong lineup of musicians, including Jebin Bruni and Jimmy Wallace (keys), James DePrato, Matthew Szlachetka and Nat Gleason (guitars), Michael Urbano, Darren King and Jim Boggios (drums), and Ted Pecchio, Etienne Franc and Mitchell Cardenas (bass). Backing vocals come from KPHawthorn and Sarah Ailli.
Production and mixing were handled by Michael Patterson, known for work with Beck and The Notorious B.I.G., alongside engineers Ryan Sandlin, Steve Berns, and Michael Rosen, ensuring a high-quality and dynamic sound.
Influenced by artists such as John Prine, Mates of State, The New Pornographers, The Head and The Heart, and Aimee Mann, Brand New Heartache combine elements of indie folk, classic country, soul, and Laurel Canyon-era songwriting.
Their move to Tennessee was a natural evolution following a 2019 show opening for Maggie Rose in Oakland. Rather than reinventing their sound, the transition has deepened their songwriting, giving their music greater warmth, clarity, and emotional impact.