An iconic summer jam hits the scene in 2026 – an acoustic folk-pop beauty gifting acoustic guitar rhythms and gorgeously harmonised male and female vocals. A complex story of push and pull in love and lasting connection, Together is a timeless indie single, from newly collaborative artists Al Sam and Natasha Liard.
Acoustic
Nostalgic folk pop with a calming summertime arrangement of organic guitars, bass and rhythms – m4rs Home leads with breathy and breezy vocals, as we’re led through a timeless and hopeful melodic progression.
UK songwriter and artist Thomas Carter delivers a fearlessly unique alt-folk sound and song, with the fragility and passion of Sympathy.
Taking the time to be still, to listen and let the music and the space surrounding it connect with humanity and heart. Northampton-based singer and songwriter Sali Clinton captures the essence of a moment, with the vulnerability and soulful, intimate waves of So Long.
Romantically minded as ever, Fly Me To The Moon suits the nuance and tone of Simon’s quietly expressive voice, the song a comforting whisper of confidence and fantasy united, with less of the big-band bravado that first made it recognisable – more of a heartfelt plea under Simon’s guidance.
Beautiful songwriting, humble musicianship – piano and a clapped rhythm, raspy vocals and short lines reflecting on war and the painful repeats of history. Patrick McMenamin leads with a voice and writing style that feel evocative, honest, and powerful, for the timeless and passionate folk single The More Things Change.
There’s something about this group of lifelong musicians untied in their passion for evocative songwriting, their humility and heart, their timeless harmonies, melodies, and the sheer passion and modesty combined that intoxicates in a soft, subtle but striking way.
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.
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.