You have to hear it to know how it feels – words can’t really convey. This song has the alt-folk beauty and pop warmth of some of history’s classic, unpredictable hits. Something like Ben Howard’s Keep Your Head Up, an alt-folk legend lifting the mood; this time somehow both catchy and not. Calling For Change is soulful, to repeat that truth again. It’s yearning, mellow then emotionally desperate in its outcry, and the set-up furthers this, with modest guitar solo moments and a huge crescendo at the end.
Folk Pop
Great songwriting and lush vocals meet with an electric guitar groove and stripped-back performative realness, as Harry Lines rather masterfully delivers his catchy and romantic single Waiting For June.
An instantly distinct melody captures attention from the outset, as British-born composer and musician Peter Dulborough introduces the refreshingly recognisable, unique nuance and journey of William.
An acoustic guitar-led number with a gorgeous chord pattern and relatable, intimate and honest vocals, Rainbows in the Sky features a classic folk-ballad set-up, with a modest performative charm that seems genuinely connected to these reflections on love and unrivalled unity.
To coincide with the release of her latest single Better Hands, and following a huge year of EP and single releases, and massive increases in organic plays, we caught an interview with the incredibly talented folk-country singer, songwriter and guitarist Annika Catharina. We talk about the experience of fast-growth as an independent artist, as well … Continued
Live acoustic Christian music blends organic Cajon and keys for a catchy, upbeat and honest ode to Faith. E.Art.h are a unique and genuine musical duo, whose single Blessed Be The Man is both memorable and refreshingly real.
Conceptual focus and organic instrumental precision, a carefully built series of soundscapes and songs, with honest vocals and stories that feel poetic and poignant amidst impassioned melodies and builds. Stewart Kenny masters the craft with purpose and depth, for the powerful new album Blood on the Wall.
Everything is subtle but effective – the production and vocal shifts, the central contrast from one section to the next. It’s modesty and artistry intertwined, and it speaks volumes on behalf of the intentions and values of Aaron Lerer and 1526 Records.
UK acoustic vibes blending long riffs and summertime world-music rhythms with conceptual depth. Akiva Zneimer takes us back to the lightness of the warmer seasons, with a song fusing rap and melody to that alt-folk bounce of a style once made underground famous by the likes of Will and the People.
Inspired by his love for the children of his close friends, Follow You highlights the heartfelt nice-guy style of J.C. Maru as a songwriter and performer. The natural acoustic ambiance is inviting, softly paired vocals bringing a kind of warmth and depth that’s immersive, and the melodies and lyrics remind us of the beauty and wonder of connection and learning.
Multi-instrumentalist Olly Davidson leads us with evocative and unique, classically inspired piano, into an ambient, reverb-soaked realm of quiet contemplation, and contrastingly uplifting indie gems, for the beautiful new album Up and Awake.
An absolute jam, in my own reactive terms – Michael P O’S captures an instant earworm and groove, with the infectious energy and reggae vibes of Words.