Crossover celebrates the Maine band’s return and a song that has become part of Hearts matchday tradition
PORTLAND, Maine — Two unmistakably Maine traditions are coming together this week as Portland Hearts of Pine and The Ghost of Paul Revere unveil a limited-edition merchandise collaboration celebrating the band’s return to Ghostland.
The collection, featuring a sweatshirt, T-shirt and hat, arrives as The Ghost of Paul Revere reunites after a four-year hiatus and returns to the stage in Portland for its long-awaited Ghostland weekend. The limited-edition Hearts x Ghost collection will debut Saturday at Allagash Brewing Company, a Hearts partner that is also marking the band’s return with the release of Ghostland Lager.
For Hearts supporters, the connection between the club and Ghost runs deeper than a shared hometown.
Before kickoff at every Hearts home match, “Ballad of the 20th Maine” fills Fitzpatrick Stadium as supporters raise their scarves and sing along, including the now-familiar line about being “steadfast as Katahdin.” The song has become one of the signature moments of a Hearts matchday and a powerful expression of the club’s connection to Maine.
“It’s already an honor to have the Ballad of the 20th be represented at each match, and now we get to rep our club even more with our new merchandise collaboration, designed by our very own Griffin William Sherry,” said Sean McCarthy, bass and vocals for The Ghost of Paul Revere.
The collection was designed by Ghost of Paul Revere guitarist and vocalist Griffin William Sherry, adding another layer to a collaboration rooted in music, art, soccer and Maine identity.
“When I think of Maine, I think of honesty, community, and wherewithal. It’s something we tried to tap into with the music of The Ghost of Paul Revere, and something I’m proud to watch the Hearts pick up the ball and run with. It’s hard to describe that feeling I get hearing the Zoo scream along to our song every time the boys take the pitch. But it’s even wilder to know that that song has grown beyond us and has become something my fellow Mainers are proud of, just like the Hearts. I was happy to lend my hand, both musically and artistically, to their community and their story. Up the Hearts,” said Griffin William Sherry.
The Ghost of Paul Revere built a devoted following with its distinctive blend of folk, bluegrass and rock before stepping away four years ago. The band’s return to Ghostland marks a long-awaited reunion and a celebration of the music and community that have surrounded the group throughout its career.
The Hearts collaboration is part of a weekend filled with uniquely Maine connections surrounding the reunion.
On Saturday, Allagash Brewing Company will host a free Ghostland beer release and merchandise event. Attendees will get the first opportunity to purchase the Hearts x Ghost collection alongside Ghostland merchandise, including shirts, trucker hats and knit caps.
Members of The Ghost of Paul Revere will also be on hand to sign merchandise from 1:30-2:30 p.m.
Following Saturday’s event, the Hearts x Ghost collection will be available Sunday at Portland Hearts of Pine’s home match against Westchester and at Ghostland at Thompson’s Point.
After the weekend, remaining merchandise will be available at the Hearts of Pine Club Shop at 127 Marginal Way in Portland.
For a club whose matchday traditions have been built around Maine music, culture and community, the collaboration brings together two groups that have each found their own way to represent the state.
HEARTS x GHOST MERCHANDISE AVAILABILITY
Saturday: First availability at the free Ghostland event at Allagash Brewing Company
1:30-2:30 p.m. Band merchandise signing with members of The Ghost of Paul Revere
Sunday: Available at Hearts of Pine vs. Westchester and Ghostland at Thompson’s Point
Following Ghostland: Available at the Hearts of Pine Club Shop, 127 Marginal Way, Portland, while supplies last