Ten original songs weave together this story of the Mystic Code, and while there’s plenty to unpack and explore conceptually, which rewards and provides insight and reflection, the music is also – and importantly – an impressive and enjoyable place to escape into for a while.
Blues
Nostalgia gifted a breath of fresh air – a stunning voice, lyrical appreciation, a strong groove both familiar and timeless. MADNIK performs with soulful charm and precision, for his wonderfully expressive take on the classic These are the days.
From the mellow to the outright untraceable in pace and presence, Joe’s guitar-work shines with natural charm throughout this seductive gem of a blues-folk track. The voice and guitar feel born to perform together in this way, and underneath we get a simple, nostalgic blues groove, a meandering bassline and beat combination, with some modest keys and synths adding a sleepy gospel vibe to an already alluring fusion of traits.
Beautifully captured acoustic guitar and harmonica, an organic set-up with a bluesy undertone – Ben Gage masters the songwriting and production space for real-time folk music, with the wonderful single Corner.
Soul and funk acoustic songwriter and vocalist Ged Wilson captures a smoky jazz vibe, smoothly blending nostalgia and the clarity of modern times. Regular Man is a catchy and relatable groove and song, built around a funky guitar and keys combination, and short lines that confidently reflect upon the scenes and implications of being a Regular Man.
Purposeful art, conceptual exploration that refuses to let history fade away. Zooloo and The Seaweeds collaborate for an immense musical project designed to pay tribute to the terrifying deportation and enslavement of black people.
Shar’s honouring of Chapman resounds beautifully, no doubt impressing all the more so in the live setting, and this is easily one of the more respectful and well-imitated covers to hit the scene in quite some time. Shar ignites the natural fluidity and warmth of the song with confidence and skill, and the results work their magic with ease.
Songs of hope, connection and communion, guided by darker fragments of subject matter and story, elevated by the warmth of soulful vocal depth and organic musical arrangements. Acoustic creative Patrick Ames never fails to entertain and connect with his original songs, and the brand new album Slow Dip Ahead is far from the exception.
The UK’s own Tim Howarth pierces through the chaos of the industry, with a divinely personal, poetic and poignant ode to authentic artistry.
Based out of Guatemala, fourpiece Folk and Americana project Choca Blues let their joy and musicianship fly freely as a band – celebrating the escapism and wonder of creative expression in a way that’s clear and impactful for those seeking a similar sense of comfort.
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.
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.