Rock Hearts Alex MacLeod

·25 min·2 clips

Rock Hearts, formed in 2013 by five New England musicians, just released their third album Unfinished Bridges in October 2024.

The episode begins with host Greg Tutwiler introducing Rock Hearts, a bluegrass band formed in 2013 by five musicians from southern New England. Alex MacLeod, a founding member, joins to discuss the band's origins and their new album Unfinished Bridges, released in early October 2024. MacLeod explains the band's current lineup, including members like Rick Brodsky, Austin Skelzo, Joe Dietz, and Billy Thibodeau, noting changes since their formation. He describes Rock Hearts as traditionalists in bluegrass, drawing inspiration from artists like Jimmy Martin and Flatt and Scruggs, contrasting with more contemporary styles. MacLeod reveals he was selected as one of ten showcasing songwriters at the International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) World of Bluegrass for his song Wanderlust, which reflects his childhood as a military kid moving every three years. He connects this to his work as a high school counselor, emphasizing how he brings songwriting insights back to students. The conversation covers the band's progression, including being an IBMA official showcase band in 2021. MacLeod details the new album's release, mentioning singles like Unfinished Bridges and Let Me Be the Best Bible, and guest artist Danny Paisley, the IBMA Male Vocalist of the Year. He shares that the album was recorded with producer Scott Vestal in four days, highlighting the band's growth from previous recordings. MacLeod also discusses the supportive bluegrass community, citing collaborations with songwriters like Brink Brinkman. The episode concludes with information on how to find the band's music and contact details, wrapping up with well-wishes for the album's success.

As heard by us

A relaxed bluegrass conversation where Rock Hearts' new album connects with Alex McLeod's work in education and songwriting.

Rock Hearts comes through as a lived-in bluegrass story, rooted in southern New England and in the steady work of five musicians who formed the band in 2013.

Read the full review in PlayNext →

Why you'd press play

You want bluegrass roots with a real-life detour into school counseling, songwriting, and Rock Hearts' third album, Unfinished Bridges.

Read the full recommendation in PlayNext →

Listen to the show on

Apple Podcasts Spotify

Play clips from this episode More from Americana Music Profiles