Glenn Thomas – “Pencil lines”
-There’s an almost magical quality to the opening acoustic guitar riff on this track. It reminds me of something you might have found in the mid 60s from the folk revival bands. But at the same time, something about this song also feels quite contemporary. There’s an energy to it that pulled me in right away. The production balance on the vocal is excellent, allowing the harmonies to emerge with a really nice sense of symmetry. This is a feel good piece of songwriting that could be called a lot of things genre wise, but we’re happy to include it with indie pop here.
Ashley Woods – “Rainbow tattoo”
-This is a remarkable atmospheric song with some captivating lyrical content. Woods writes with a sense of forward momentum. The song captures sentiments that have been very close to me in the recent past where looking back and looking forward both seem strangely numbing. The blend of synths and the chilled vocal works really well. The whole mood of the track is contemplative and meaningful. It’s not jump out of your seat pop, but it’s the kind of alt pop that feels comfortable sonically while the lyrics make you engage with richer, deeper emotions. It’s incredibly well done and unlike anything we’ve ever heard before. What a treat.
Lexie Carroll – “if I built my home from paper”
-I shared this song with my friends and when I did I said “for fans of Dodie Clark.” I think that’s probably a fair comparison of Carroll’s songwriting style. The piano is contemplative and interesting, but it’s really the heartfelt lyrical work that makes Carroll’s sound stand out. The chord changes have the same sense of theatricality that Clark brings as well. From the first time I heard this song, I knew I’d like it. But every time I’ve listened to it since I’ve said, “it’s just SO good” over and over. The fairy tale imagery combined with genuine encouragement and hope is… how do I put this? …perfect for the dystopia that many of us are feeling here in the 21st century. To say “thank you” to Lexie Carroll feels insufficient. This is such an important song and piece of art.
