On Valentine’s Day, it’s easy to get swept up in the allure of romance and grand gestures, but in truth, love is more often a marathon through unpredictable terrain. Americana duo Goldpine (real-life married couple Kassie and Ben Wilson) have made it their mission to remind us of this essential truth. Their latest single, “Lean Into The Turns,” is a poignant and beautifully composed anthem for couples navigating the unpredictable path of love and life. The song’s message is both simple and profound: long-term love is rife with unforeseen challenges, but by choosing to “hold on and lean into the turns,” you emerge stronger together. Kassie’s vocals pierce through the mix with brightness and clarity, while duet partner (and Texas songwriting legend) Radney Foster’s vocals serve as a husky, world-worn counterpoint; it’s as though they serve as the voices of optimism and experience having a conversation with each other, and when they harmonize the sum is even more beautiful than the individual parts. The musical arrangement is equally impressive, with a lead guitar line that cleverly reflects the theme of the song. It opts for a dissonant resolution, mirroring an unexpected swerve in the road, while the rest of the band trots steadily behind, embodying the passage of time. This dynamic is subtle but incredibly effective, underscoring the idea that, no matter how rough the ride, life keeps moving forward. In a world where love is often idealized as a fairytale, “Lean Into The Turns” offers a grounded reminder that true love is shaped by the resilience to navigate life’s bumps and bends together.
