An eclectic and high-quality repertoire with tens of thousands of monthly listeners already speaks volumes, but this year New Jersey songwriter and artist Dave Vargo takes things to greater heights still, with the release of his beautifully crafted and performed album of heartfelt nostalgia Ghost Towns.
Acoustic
There’s a healing quality to an arrangement like this, and Peter DiMaggio’s politely expressive voice suits that type of ambiance rather beautifully, furthering the satisfaction and appeal that is the light and rather lovely Chasing a Trace.
Something boldly different, by design, intention, timeframe and temperament alike – an avant-garde album noting over 200 original works, and an artistic style grounded by creativity, but otherwise bravely elevated by a fearless sense of eclecticism and refusal to adhere to expectations.
Returning to the raw essentials of heartfelt songwriting, Maypo Deluxe lets the nuance and realism of his voice and lyricism shine naturally, for the acoustic guitar-led fireside charm and radical acceptance of Living Out Loud.
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.
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.