Honey of the Heart is the Northern California-based musical duo of Justin Ancheta and Maren Metke, whose original music brings together soulful folk, world music, roots, jazz, and flamenco influences in a distinctive blend of rich vocal harmonies, expressive instrumentation, and globally inspired rhythms.

Since forming in 2014, the duo has cultivated an expansive musical sound, weaving English and Spanish lyrics with intricate guitar work, live looping, and an eclectic range of acoustic and contemporary influences. Equally at home in intimate acoustic settings and full-band productions, their performances move between soulful storytelling, dynamic musicianship, and infectious, rhythm-driven energy.

With seven independent releases and recording projects spanning their musical journey, Honey of the Heart has continually evolved its sound through original songwriting, live recordings, studio productions, and collaborations. Their debut full-length album, Dive Deep (2020), showcases an expansive fusion of folk, soul, roots, and global rhythms, featuring arrangements ranging from intimate acoustic performances to a twelve-piece ensemble. Subsequent releases, including Common Ground (2022) and Live at The Center for the Arts (2022), further explore their collaborative approach and genre-crossing musical identity. Their forthcoming album, Coming Home, continues this evolution with an eclectic instrumental palette and songwriting centered on belonging, growth, and connection.

Honey of the Heart has performed at acclaimed festivals including Oregon Country Fair, SoulPlay Festival, and Firelight Festival, and has shared the stage with an impressive roster of celebrated artists, including Taj Mahal, Joan Baez, Creedence Clearwater Revival, and Rising Appalachia.

Beyond the stage, Justin and Maren are passionate facilitators of creative expression, offering vocal exploration and songwriting workshops that extend their musical practice into community engagement and participatory arts experiences.

Through their dynamic musicianship, cross-cultural influences, and commitment to the transformative power of music, Honey of the Heart continues to create performances that bring people together through rhythm, song, and the universal language of music.

What people are saying: 

“... soulful expression of Joan Osborne and the earthy folk harmonies of Rising Appalachia.”

“We came for the music and left feeling like we belonged to each other.”

“Maren’s voice reached places in me I hadn’t found words for. Justin’s guitar gave them somewhere to move.”

“One moment we were dancing; the next, the whole room was listening so closely you could hear someone breathe.”

“They made singing feel less like something you have to be good at and more like something you’re allowed to enjoy.”

“I brought a friend who knew none of the songs. By the end, we were both singing.”

“There was room for joy without pretending life is easy. That’s what stayed with me.”

“I don’t remember the exact moment the audience became a choir. I just remember looking around and realizing I was part of it.”

“The kind of evening that makes you linger at the door because you’re not quite ready to leave.”