Three new folk singer songwriters who write with imagery that pulls the listener into the song

Riley Pearce – “Headstone”
-There’s a calm acoustic energy to this track that creates just enough space to make the listener lean in for more. The phrasing feels like listening to an old friend share a story in a coffeeshop. The chorus lyric, “carve it into my headstone when I die, I never once took this for granted, not once in my life.” What a legacy! Imagine being known for being so fully present, so grateful, so glowing with authenticity and appreciation that people remember you for it forever. I like the song but I love the sentiment at the heart of the concept. This is what good art should do; while it comforts my ears and makes me feel good to hear the harmonies, it’s ultimately the message that makes me want to live a better life. That’s what this journey is all about. I owe Riley Pearce a high five for this one.

Sarah Thompson – “coldwater canyon”
-If you’re a fan of storytelling that will put a smile on your face, definitely click play on this song. I know the soundscape will have some drawing comps to big names like Taylor Swift (especially Folklore), but for me it’s the sincerity in the delivery that makes the song a true connection. From the guy in the opening scene to the scenic drive in the chorus, the whole song feels like it was meant to convey visuals along with the engaging musicality. I’ve never heard a song that had such vivid cinematic style that wasn’t actually meant for film; this track conveys a ton of emotion and is sure to resonate with a lot of fans of songwriters that we feature here.

Dan Pallotta – “24 Kenmore Road”
-I can’t think of a better time to share this track than coming up on the holidays. There’s a delightful nostalgia to the sound that’s well worth your exploration. Pallotta is a songwriter I’ve featured a few times before and its easy to hear why I continue to say yes. There’s a plaintive sincerity to the lyrical delivery that’s a bit between throwback folksters of the 60s and the contemporary style of someone like Jeffrey Martin. It’s that “space between” style that really feels familiar and accessible. The phrasing of the lead phrase, “24 Kenmore Road” feels like it could be where I grew up, where you grew up, or somewhere we’ve all been… even if we’ve never actually been there. I appreciate the endearing style, the unhurried delivery, and the timeless character of the song.