Madisyn Gifford – “Seventeen”
-“Purgatory; I didn’t think that was what was waiting for me. But then I kissed you in my dream and woke up sorry to be alive every day the same old story.” That’s the opening lyric on this song and, frankly, I’m not sure I can say much to highlight what is already a fantastic line. I would say do not assume that just because a song is about being seventeen that it somehow lacks maturity or depth. There’s a lot to explore with this song and, if you open your heart to it, you’ll find there’s a real specialness to the emotional depth it carries. The instrumentation is a beautiful blend of poppy folk elements (guitars and banjo, especially) along with this delightful color balance in the production. It wouldn’t be out of place on a playlist alongside Taylor Swift, but importantly it doesn’t feel like a derivative. Gifford stands on her own and this is meaningful art that I’m happy to support.
Jess Irvine – “Grow”
-The song is titled “Grow” but it could have just as easily been called “Glow” because that’s what it does; this song absolutely shines from the opening line onward. The acoustic guitar has this big, full sound that provides a good basis for the outstanding vocal. Lyrically, the song explains what it’s like to observe your own growth. “I’ve grown and it shows.” It’s the sweetest, most peaceful song about seeing your own maturity. I appreciate the meditative energy of the song that blends nicely with light hearted pop elements. I could see this one being on an indie pop playlist alongside similar types of inspiring, bright acoustic pop perfect for a summery playlist.
Tyler Forrest – “Love Showed Me the Way”
-There’s a colorful energy to this song that’s recognizable from the first guitar notes. The texture of the tune is light, but the minor chord elements give it a coolness that’s definitely endearing from first listen. The lead vocal is exceptional and the harmony highlights give it a real nice depth. It’s unconventional in terms of genre, but we love how all of the parts fit together. It reminds me of a bit of a crunchy Brooklyn style of folk music. Even the lyrical theme about falling in love in unique ways feels like that sort of urban northeastern vibe of folk music. It resonates, that’s for sure.
Image courtesy: Madisyn Gifford IG
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