Raw acoustic realism and stories that are easy to connect with – Jack O’Handley captures the fireside warmth and energy of live acoustic folk and storytelling, with the honest and unfiltered Get in the Van.
Acoustic
Back to basics, when the programmed devices continue to take over – an essential underground movement that’s thriving, impassioned and impressive. Amos Zimmerman delivers one of the most clever and enjoyable human folk songs of the season, with the brilliant lyrical intrigue and fingerpicked warmth of Lost My Groove.
The slow-burning realism of an acoustic and live performance, a man and his guitar, quietly setting that fireside vibe. Firecamino presents an enjoyable listen to begin with, inoffensive and honest, unfiltered and real. However, the true power of Jerusalem emerges during the song’s immense and mighty second half.
Australian singer and artist Simon Orton turns his thoughts and feelings towards a classic from Sting and The Police, presenting one of the most mellow and intimate acoustic takes yet, for Every Breath You Take.
Four incredible songs, not a bad moment, nor one that’s less than great, in my view.
A great profile of original songs, real vocals and lyrics, real stories from a life lived with passion, presence, and self-awareness. Something different but timeless, poetry and music naturally performed, and with lots of wild and wonderful moments to appreciate.
Authenticity is key, this kind of raw recording style, the live guitar sound and the natural voice – something like Eva Cassidy meets Laura Marling – it’s interesting, unpredictable, but comforting in its humility and introspection.
Raised in apartheid in South Africa, songs were the lifeblood of liberation for Marisa Handler and her community, and this heritage, this connection to music and the freedom it can bring, is precisely what inspired the anthemic celebration of We Are Rising.
Real human connection in musical form – an intimate capture, acoustic and thoughtful, honest and unedited. Gibishki introduces a sublime and interesting new album, with the rising passion and distinct identity of 7 Wonders.
Introducing a creative duo whose songs are the sort to make long-time music writers instantly excited about their work again. Wisconsin alt-folk artists Leiting & Van Kammen blend organic, acoustic folk musicianship, with honest, alluring vocal charm, rising intensity, and haunting, reflective stories.
When faced with injustice, separation and scorn, art and music consistently step forward – to capture the moment, inspire kindness and belief in brighter tomorrows, and on a more personal level; to escape from the noise and weight of the outside world. Another aspiring songwriter gifted lashings of opportunity from modern production tools, De Nosaj … Continued
Born and raised in Queensland, Australia, Simon Orton has been hard at work on new releases since 2025, and his storytelling and guitar playing meet with a recognisable, enjoyably imperfect vocal integrity – qualities that shine with modesty and warmth throughout the lovely new single A Little Light.