Open Road Folk Music – “Sunny Days”-I can’t quite put my finger on who this lead vocal reminds me of, but it’s someone like Gregory Alan Isakov. It’s rich, deep and abiding, causing the listener to lean in and really listen. The acoustic …
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Three new alt country and Americana tracks with just enough jangle to put a smile on your face
The Fisherman Three – “The Last Time”-If you’re a sucker for a good stand-up bass (and I am), then this song is an instant “yes!” The lead vocal does a great job of carrying that narrative folk song, which tells a story that …
Three brand new folk pop tracks, including the latest from genre legends Johnnyswim
Lauren Mian – “Undertow”-I don’t always think of heavy percussive energy when it comes to folk pop, but it really works here well in this new track from Mian. The vocal is outstanding, which allows the listener to connect with every detail of …
Three tracks that will put some pep in your step this midweek – danceable indie pop! Let’s GO!
Sound Estate – “Talk It Out”-I don’t approve a lot of dance pop, so when I do it’s because it’s SO GOOD I couldn’t say no. This track from Sound Estate has some amazing soundscapes that intersect well with an intense beat. The …
Three downtempo folk tunes that will tug at your heartstrings and remind you why you love music
Jon Fazal – “New Moon”-This is a love song, but not in the sense of romance so much as it is about existence. It’s a lovely folk narrative with piano and guitar work that soothes, but ultimately it’s a love song for the …
Three wonderful tracks at the intersection of indie pop and experimental rock music
Alexander Wolfe – “Talk”-Wolfe wrote one of the most important songs I covered several years ago called “The Mock Turtle’s Lament” and, frankly, I’ve been a fan ever since. The production of this song “Talk” is massive, with swells and energy that show …
Three new tracks that bring out the best in contemporary folk styling
Lo Stone – “Toward the Sun”-There’s a delightful simplicity to the composition style here. The keys, the guitar, the percussion, and a pure vocal keep the track moving along nicely. There’s a clarity in the production mix for the vocal that makes it …
Three breathtaking new singer songwriters, including a “song of the year” candidate
Gal Musette – “Broken Clock”-Stop what you’re doing and really listen to this song. It’s such a wonderful bit of songwriting and Musette’s vocal is stunning here. The harmonies on the chorus are absolutely outstanding, winning me over again and again with each …
Three tracks in the Americana space that overflow with authenticity
SJ Hill – “Tonight”-If you’re a fan of bluesy rock music, there’s a lot to like about this track from SJ Hill. I adore the way the organ creates a sense of depth right from the start, but it’s the vocal that wins …
Three outstanding new folk pop tunes that will have you pickin’ and grinnin’
Something About Bears – “Honey”-Maybe it’s the lifelong Pooh Bear fan in me, but I couldn’t help but smile when I saw a song by a group of bears called “Honey.” A smackerel, as they say. I know if you read their PR …
