British singer-songwriter Tommy Arch continues to carve out his own place between soul, blues, folk, and country with his compelling new double A-side, “Lovehearts” and “The Cold Side of the Bed.” By masterfully navigating the spectrum of human emotion, Arch delivers two sides of heartbreak that resonate with authenticity and raw, live-recorded energy.
Both tracks feel deeply rooted in an older tradition of storytelling and musicianship. Each song approaches the complexities of love from distinct angles, showcasing the impressive range in Arch’s songwriting as he transitions from the uncertainty of new romance to the profound weight of personal loss.
“Lovehearts” draws inspiration from classic country and soul duets, featuring a standout collaboration with Newcastle singer-songwriter Hels Pattison. The track lyrically navigates the delicate complications that arise when a casual connection begins to feel emotionally significant. There is a palpable warmth to their vocal pairing that perfectly complements the track’s vintage country influence.
Reflecting on the recording process, Arch shared, “I wanted ‘Lovehearts’ to sound like one of those old Ray Charles country duets like ‘Here We Go Again’ so [producer Alex Blamire] suggested Hels Pattison and I sing the song together in the live room. We’d only sung the song together once before at a show, and I think we did three takes in the morning, and the second was the one, so kudos to Hels…”
In contrast, “The Cold Side of the Bed” finds the songwriter venturing into heavier territory. The track unfolds as a dramatic 6/8 blues composition, centered on the visceral aftermath of losing someone. Arch’s emotion-fueled vocals carry the weight of the narrative, grounding the song in a stark, honest reality.
Both songs were crafted through a stripped-back recording process that prioritizes analogue warmth and simplicity. By drawing from his own life experiences, personal heartbreak, and literary influences, Tommy Arch has developed a signature style that values genuine expression over artifice.