LA songwriter and artist Simona Shao blends acoustic and contemporary pop qualities through a softly evocative realm, and the results are sublime. Her latest three-track EP Waves presents three parts or chapters of a story, reflecting on the highs and lows of an impactful romance, and balancing calm, poetic imagery and ideas, with personal experiences that feel both relatable and profound.
Songwriter
Acoustic musician and songwriter Summer Redstone leads with a much-welcomed dose of clear authenticity as a modern artist. The sheer feeling and delicate intensity of her two recent singles highlight a sense of talent and purpose in the field, Summer’s voice meandering through long-form melodic musings, backed only by an acoustic guitar, and delivering a fine balance between the familiar and the impressively original.
Deeply moving vocal harmonies and organic keys present a crisp ode to simpler musical eras, as songwriter Tony Stewart delivers a heartfelt and poignant dedication to his late wife. Brilliantly creative from a melodic and structural perspective, Special Day meanders carefully between melancholy and optimism. The set-up has hints of both The Beatles and Queen … Continued
Tropical acoustic pop with summer rhythms and distinct, delicate vocals – Matias Malta captures the colourful calm of oceanside living and serenity, with Canção Pela Paz.
McKay are an act upholding the realness and talent of organic, man-made bands and songwriting, at a time when we need that more than ever. They write youthfully fearless, thoughtful and intelligent lyrics, with fresh melodies and blissfully harmonised performances, and for all of these reasons, they’re a personal favourite act from the past couple of years, and Casino is incredibly special as an original project.
Lush new music from Blue Julius brings a dreamy guitar groove of both acoustic and electric tones. Collaborating once again with Dani Stacy, the band offer a soulful nostalgic performance and rising energy, for the intoxicating You Make Me Feel New.
Just seven years old and already holding a repertoire of over 20 original songs, the young musical prodigy and renowned philanthropist Simba is an altruistic and inspiring soul, whose focus unites heartfelt songwriting, beautiful vocals, and charitable intentions.
Smooth melodies and slick guitar-led arrangements – Carlos Smith Jr. blends storytelling and catchy musicianship, with the five-track Christian rock project Somebody’s Prayin’.
Hazy production and relatable, quietly mixed vocals – an upbeat energy and thoughtful, often romanticised lyrics. UK songwriter and musician Dave Vamfer reflects on love and life with playful creativity, throughout Find The Sound.
JOSH FR3DA holds nothing back with this album release – the opening song alone simply listing a series of poignant topical references. The very sentiment of being Openly Open is boldly explored, through an indie rock style both smooth and energised in equal parts.
The whole album is sensational, in my view. Interesting and engaging, with sublime vocals and performative diversity throughout. Easily one of the most impressively original and genuine projects of the year so far. Listen in full.
The song openly wonders whether good men are typically the rule or the exception, and while the hook resolves in a relatable, accessible way, the verses dive into a more poetic and intimate, personal story, letting the listener really build a connection and understanding with the artist behind them.