British singer-songwriter Tommy Arch continues to carve out his own place between soul, blues, folk, and country with his new double A-side, “Lovehearts” and “The Cold Side of the Bed.” Both tracks feel rooted in an older tradition of storytelling and live musicianship, with each one approaching love from very different angles, showing the range in Arch’s writing as he moves from romantic uncertainty to outright heartbreak.
“Lovehearts” takes its cues from classic country and soul duets, featuring Newcastle singer-songwriter Hels Pattison. Lyrically, the song navigates the complications of a casual connection becoming emotionally less straightforward. There is a distinct warmth to their vocal pairing that complements the track’s old-school country influence. Arch notes that he wanted the song to evoke the spirit of classic Ray Charles country duets, leading to a spontaneous and successful recording session with Pattison in the live room.
In contrast, “The Cold Side of the Bed” finds the songwriter heading into heavier territory. It unfolds as a dramatic 6/8 blues song, centered on the raw aftermath of losing a partner. The track is defined by Arch’s emotion-fuelled vocals, which carry the weight of the narrative with palpable sincerity.
Both songs were built from a stripped-back recording process that prioritizes analogue warmth and simplicity. By drawing from his own experiences, personal heartbreak, and literary influences, Tommy Arch has developed a sound that values authentic storytelling over production artifice. As he continues to refine his craft, these latest offerings solidify his reputation as a compelling voice in the modern folk and blues landscape.