MUSIC FOR YOUR EARS | REVIEW Head to Heart By Rusty Reid

Rusty Reid’s Head to Heart (Remix) is a powerful reimagining of a track that originally
appeared on his 2019 album, Head to Heart: A Revolutionary Manifesto in Song. With
this remix, Reid, a seasoned singer-songwriter from Seattle, revisits one of his most
pivotal works, breathing new life into it while staying true to its core message.
From the outset, Head to Heart (Remix) draws listeners into its warm, acoustic embrace.
The song opens with a soothing blend of acoustic guitar and rhythmic drums, setting a
contemplative tone that is both inviting and profound. Reid’s vocals are the centrepiece
here, imbued with a raw, emotional depth that makes the song’s narrative of spiritual
and personal growth feel intimate and relatable. His voice carries a rich expressiveness,
effortlessly conveying the song’s themes of love, sacrifice, and self-discovery.
Lyrically, Head to Heart is a masterclass in introspection. Reid explores the journey
from intellectual understanding to emotional wisdom, a process he poetically describes
as ‘the longest journey from Head to Heart.’ The lyrics are poignant and reflective,
touching on the challenges of life — what Reid calls the ‘bumps and bruises’ — and
how these experiences lead to a deeper awareness of love as the ultimate truth. This
theme is especially relevant in today’s world, where many are searching for meaning
and connection in increasingly complex times.
The remix itself is a clear reflection of Reid’s growth as an artist. The production is
polished yet retains the organic feel of the original, enhancing the song’s emotional
impact without overshadowing its essence. The acoustic guitars, played by Ronan
Dempsey, harmonise flawlessly with the electric guitar and piano, creating a lush,
melodic backdrop that perfectly complements Reid’s vocals. Brandon Davis’ drumming
adds a steady, driving rhythm that propels the song forward, providing a solid
foundation for the intricate instrumental layers.
One of the most striking moments in the remix is the bridge, where the instrumental
break allows the music to take centre stage. The guitars shimmer and twang, creating a
space for the listener to fully absorb the song’s message. This moment of musical
introspection is a beautiful counterpoint to the lyrical content, reinforcing the idea that
the journey from head to heart is not just intellectual but also deeply emotional.
The song’s structure is both elegant and effective, with the verses building up to the
chorus in a way that feels natural and satisfying. The chorus, in particular, is
memorable, with its sunny optimism and melodic catchiness. It’s a moment of catharsis
in the song, where the themes of love and spiritual awakening come to the forefront,
leaving a lasting impression on the listener.
Reid’s storytelling is at its best in this remix. He weaves a narrative that is both personal
and universal, making Head to Heart a song that connects deeply on various levels. His
lyrics are not just about his own experiences but also about the collective human
journey toward understanding and love. This is what makes the song so powerful — it

speaks to the listener on a deeply personal level while also addressing broader, more
universal themes.
In the broader context of Reid’s discography, Head to Heart (Remix) emerges as a
significant piece. It demonstrates his ability for combining thoughtful, introspective
lyrics with a compelling musical arrangement, creating a song engages both the mind
and the emotions. The remix also highlights Reid’s skill as a producer, as he has
managed to refine and polish the original track without losing its heart and soul.
For both long-time fans of Rusty Reid and new listeners, Head to Heart (Remix) is an
essential listen. It’s a song that offers a fresh perspective on themes of love, growth, and
spiritual awakening, wrapped in a musical package that is both timeless and
contemporary. Reid’s skill in fusing indie folk, country, and rock into a cohesive sound
is on full display here, making this remix a worthy addition to his body of work.
All in all, Head to Heart (Remix) is more than just a song — it’s a journey. Rusty Reid
has taken a track that was already profound and elevated it to new heights, offering a
listening experience that is both deeply moving and musically satisfying. This remix is a
shining example of how revisiting and refining past work can lead to new artistic
heights, and it solidifies Reid’s place as a thoughtful and qualified songwriter in the
modern music landscape.