Introducing a sensational indie pop-rock single, with refreshingly original lyrics, reflective of a unique and hopeful perspective, Lia Marie Johnson’s You Are Whole is an unmistakable gem of an indie track this year, and it releases at perhaps the most perfect time of all.
Songwriter
Ehson Hashemian creates with freedom and precision combined, writing stories that feel laid back but interesting, intentional, and Life Of The Party is perhaps his most mainstream-pop-inspired take on that characterful approach.
Having shaken the foundations of both his repertoire and the modern alternative music realm alike, with the launch of his politically outspoken single Paradigm $H!T, the unmistakable creative force that is Jakob The Liar goes on to release his anticipated EP Wake up Mr. Kupferberg, and the six-track project is as unpredictable and artistically free … Continued
Two creative formats carefully intertwined – author and musician Mo Fanning delivers a full-length album, crafted to accompany and compliment his brand new book release Rainbows and Lollipops. Featuring ambient electronic arrangements and uplifting, often nostalgic hooks, Just Stopped By welcomes an array of session musicians, adding diversity and dynamic to a thoughtful and occasionally … Continued
Norwegian artist and songwriter dePresno impresses again, capturing a new moment in time, with lush vocals and an organic instrumental build-up united, to ultimately present a powerful set of lyrics that are piercingly original and loaded with soulful realism.
I’ll Be Your Dog is a rather simple but stunning folk-country single, something like Micah P Hinson, but perhaps more joyful – a mellow groove, a colourful vibe, and a beautifully interesting voice. The single is self-defined as an ode to Bob Dylan’s Pat Garrett & Billy The Kid, and welcomes an Americana set-up that quickly transports you to the centre of the live performance.
Huge pop anthems of a live-band aura and catchy, evocative songwriting – MatteoM’s long-anticipated album What Is It All About? delivers an extensive exploration of the vagaries of love and the difficulties they present. It begins with the hugely vibrant pop-rock anthem Change Of Heart.
Poetic songwriting is key, finding a new way of framing a somewhat familiar sentiment or introspection, and then building a story and song around that central idea. The Architect encapsulates the value of that approach, quite literally in fact, and while the style is nothing ground-breaking, it doesn’t need to be.
Spellbinding acoustic folk, a familiar style with divinely intimate vocals, reflecting on a subject matter with poignant vulnerability. Wren Arkose unite poetic short lines with a deeply introspective account of a life lived amidst the struggle of anorexia, for the powerful and gripping single Bones.
Currently 75 years young and vocally distinct in an effortless and enchanting fashion, Cousti writes with a heartfelt and catchy approach, songs like Turn Around and Survive instantly appealing for both their sense of live-band warmth and the naturally inspiring sentiments and loving references of their lyrics. The melodies are simple but satisfying, and that voice carries things along in a way that feels genuinely fresh.
Fellow Mancunian Ben Heyworth highlights the very best of the talent, contemplation and magic of the city’s indie musicians, with his latest solo endeavour that is the beautifully organic folk EP Creatures.
Crisp acoustic guitar and boldly distinct, deep vocals, blending spoken and sung performance, throughout a heartfelt song that proudly celebrates the life-changing moment you meet your first child. Australian artist Simon Orton captures a sound both unique and classic, with The Next Me.