Sometimes the songs hidden between the singles on an album are the best ones. Maybe they weren’t front and center, but they play an integral part of the narrative. “Heart Of Gold” by Beauty School Dropout is a shining example of this notion. Not a primary focus of their sophomore album, READY TO EAT, but perhaps the last piece of the puzzle that when you step back, makes the effort complete.
Arguably a song with one of the strongest melodies on the album, the band takes a staccato approach to the verses with lead singer, Colie Hutzler singing: “Trouble when I was a kid / You can blame it on the television / Seven words you won’t forget / ‘You’ll never make it out of here.'” This in juxtaposition to the smooth, glossy falsettos in the pre-chorus makes for immediate ear candy. You never get board of where the structure takes you. The experience guides you in perfect timing from moment to moment before the payoff of the chorus.
“So I’ll carry on / When the sunshine faces the dusk / You can take all that you wanted / But you’ll never get my heart / When the sun is gone and the vultures break my bones / You can take all that you wanted / But you’ll never get my heart of gold.”
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“Heart Of Gold” on the first listen is a groovy, upbeat tune. The drums force you to bob your head and tap your feet, but if you listen closely, there is a blanket of sadness. Lyrically, the song is a painful reflection of self-worth and means of potential. However, the hook leaves room for hope and a “chin-up” mentality. We all long to have this sense of perseverance in overcoming our own doubts.
Beauty School Dropout drives these emotions home more than ever in their live performance of “Heart Of Gold” here at the idobi studio. Sit back and enjoy this sensational tune.
