Graphic by Izzie Claudio

By Ana Achata

The Chicago-based band Sharp Pins is releasing their next album, Balloon Balloon Balloon November 21st, and have treated us to a single two months in advance. “I Don’t Have The Heart” is a beautiful throwback to the ‘70s, with a sound similar to that of The Flamin’ Groovies and The Nerves. Singer-songwriter Kai Slater (he/him) has a talent for writing songs that are perfect for jumping around to–this particular track is slightly melancholy, and rings of chilly fall afternoons spent yearning. The song opens with “I don’t have the heart to tell you / I’ve waited so long to be near you / But I don’t have the heart to show how I feel” which is a perfect backing track for a lovestruck individual trailing after their crush. Paired with beautiful harmonizations and vocals, Slater also has a talent for fun guitar riffs that will stay stuck in your head for days. You could listen to this song twenty times in a row and still be glad to hear it again. Every instrument and layer on this track would be a joy to listen to on its own, and they all work together to create a timeless pop sound. If you’re also in the yearning mood this fall, this might be the song for you. Sharp Pins are truly one of a kind and are on the rise in the youth pop scene. Be sure to keep Balloon Balloon Balloon on your radar, and in the meantime, “I Don’t Have The Heart” is here to keep you company while you wait.