Built around acoustic guitars, humble keys and cinematic whistles, the music presents with a mildly cinematic aura, but proceeds to offer characterful vocals both delicate and distinct, as we explore the intricacies and depths of the song’s inspiration.
Folk Pop
Singer and songwriter Donna Brooks keeps the poetry and acoustic honesty of folk music alive and well, with the evocative melodies and cleanly-mixed vocals of her new album It’s Just Rain.
An acoustic folk-pop collaboration guided by catchy melodies and thoughtful lyrical reflections. CEDER & Dorotea contemplate the depths of human emotion and the possibilities that lie within our existence, with their beautiful, self-titled EP.
Self-described as a ‘Third Culture Kid’, Martin was raised in Japan by French and Filipino parents. His unique cultural heritage often pours through in his music, reflecting on a distinct upbringing and mindset, whilst stylistically paying tribute to legendary songwriters like Tracy Chapman, Joni Mitchell, and James Taylor.
Acoustic guitar, quirky by riff but familiar by groove, backs up the intimate folk-pop vocals and contemporary lyrics of Tessa Dalton’s new single Hit the Lights. It’s a humble beginning, rising towards a bright pop single, with a catchy thread of melody and a clear sense of personality at it’s core.
At long last, ’tis the season for good vibes, togetherness, and simple celebration. On that note, original Christmas songs are always something we secretly crave at this time of year, and songwriter Martin Manley has crafted one that’s a natural gem.
May the original and organic songwriters of our time take the lead in the coming months and years, the AI gap is still vast enough to keep realness at the forefront, and hopefully that authentic connection will remain in the hands of creative humans. Listen to all original music from Neil Fergus here.
Multi-instrumentalist, poet, songwriter and singer Jodie Fox unites creativity and classic seasonal warmth, with her brand new EP of Christmas hits that is Songs of Peace and Joy.
We move on towards an extended crescendo, within which multiple layers of keys, bass, synths and guitars collaborate to reinforce this looping sentiment and hook, which perfectly bridges the gap between the vagueness of a stranger’s tale and the mightier sense of humanity that is the shared sentiment of still believing and maintaining a hopeful stance in a chaotic world. It also resounds with the shared nostalgia of longing for the simplicity of childhood to return.
Fellow Mancunian Andrew Batcheler, currently making fresh roots in the US, intertwines a handful of likable qualities, throughout the upbeat folk-pop anthem that is Falling Together.
The rising artist delivers a masterfully established sound with her recent singles, and creates a space that aptly draws the listener in as they ponder these reflections on life and love. Rather than seeking out genre tags or comparisons, the songs themselves are quick to work their magic for connection and escapism, and that’s the stand-out quality of all things Bella Masone right now.
Beautiful music, simple and unpretentious – honest and uplifting. Kyla Jaymes is a master of the songwriting format, in my view, always surprising yet distinct with each new single, and Intrigued is a genuine and humble, enjoyable ode to that quality.