These days it seems like a rare experience to stumble upon a song that feels as if it were written during a time when there was not a shallow thirst for fame driving the creative process. Songs that feel timeless, authentic and heart-warming in a manner that’s unique to the listener, are few and far between.
Americana
Following the release of his iconic new single and video American Made, we caught up with lifelong musician and songwriter Sebastian James, to find out more about the song, his journey so far as an artist, the upcoming album, and plenty more. Here’s how it went.
Country, Folk and Americana all soulfully united with stories that relate and reflect – Banner Johnson returns, with a full length album of heartfelt gems and outright anthems alike.
Massive blues-rock vibes and a striking long-form riff are quick to appeal – the classic stomp of a rhythm and subsequent soulful vocal of Sleepwalker’s latest single Burn connect beautifully.
Created in direct response to the consistent rise of conflict and hate in the USA, Big Bus Dream releases the evocative protest single AMERICAN – an organic soft-rock arrangement and song reflecting on times past and the subsequent downward spiral of division and violence.
It’s a bittersweet contemplation, and the song has been crafted quite perfectly – a catchy hit that calls out with passion and power on behalf of the dreams we fail to achieve; and those we can still go after. Somewhat brave but respectable in its unadulterated honesty – No Mo Money is an absolute hit, and faultlessly delivered.
Build upon a simple backdrop of hand-drums and stylish acoustic guitar, Troubled highlights the natural nuances and passionate tones of Jo Potter’s voice in a beautifully pure and evocative way.
Country rock straight from the relatable depths of Liverpool – The UK’s own Liam Doherty masters the sound and style of the genre, and pairs that with brilliantly uplifting, catchy songwriting.
Singer and songwriter Michael Marquart returns under the creative moniker A Bad Think. The project’s 12th studio album Cottonwood intrigues in both title and artwork, and the storytelling plus the engaging fusion of Folk, Americana and Rock consistently maintains that appeal.
This release does indeed promise to deliver a soaring and satisfying hour-plus of Rock’n’Roll For The Soul. Not purely distortion and energy, but warmth, skilled musicianship, thoughtful and heartfelt lyrics – everything the soul craves from audio escapism and human connection.
Lifting the mood of the room with their organic country musicianship and catchy, relatable songwriting, The Cow Cats kick off their latest album of originals, with the quirky and memorable song Thirsty University.
Scott Kirby has always impressed, always been worthy of a pause – stand back and enjoy the music in every case. With So Many Ways, it appears that those qualities, and all we’ve come to love about the authenticity and heart of his music, reaches intense new heights.