Three gifted folk singer songwriters that will bring some light to your midweek

Belle Shea – “Gift”
-I try not to lead reviews with simple emotional responses, but honestly… I love this song. In the first line, I got chills (both when I processed and then when I sat down for coverage). I did two things before I started writing; I sent the song to my daughter and then I put it on the “song of the year candidates” list. SO… with all of that said, let’s address the actual song. Belle Shea has an incredibly moving voice that conveys emotion really well. The layered instrumentation in the background creates a truly unique mood, allowing the listener to feel a genuine connection with the lyrics. It’s a sad, romantic song about a relationship that didn’t work out. The cathartic acoustic guitar sets such an incredible mood; I think I could listen to this song as an instrumental as well. This is one of the most heartfelt, moving, genuine songs I’ve heard all year. Did I mention that I love it?

Cole Swensen and Aiden Ross – “Fix You”
-If you’ve been around my writing for the past few years, you know Cole Swensen’s name. He’s an outstanding singer songwriter. Even when he does covers, like this one, he reimagines the tune so much that it really becomes its own piece. Aiden Ross is another talented, young, rising star in the same vein as Swensen. I’m not at all surprised to hear that they are working together. This track captures two incredible, tender vocal performances. Without even reading the credits I can tell this was produced by Swensen. His mother’s cello work along with his unique, unhurried performance style has become a bit of a calling card. It’s a wonderful piece of art, urging listeners to slow down and listen carefully. You might think you know this song already, but it’s well worth experiencing this reimagination to feel it deep in your soul, maybe for the first time.

Yuri Shin – “new shoes”
-There’s a gentle energy to this song that I appreciate. It’s not rushed or aggressive; it takes its time and tells the story. I love the image of the “pain” of new shoes. Ultimately we know that new shoes are a gift and will be better in the long run, but that pain can be difficult to endure. The line here “you break me again and again” actually supports the metaphor nicely. This is such a vulnerable and well-written piece of contemporary folk music. Fans of thoughtful folk in the vein of Dodie Clark will find a lot to like in this sound from Yuri Shin.