The latest single from California based singer/songwriter Kris Angelis is the perfect example of a gold standard acoustic pop hit. The bright energy and infectious melodies make ‘Heartbreak is Contagious’ the kind of warm and inviting song that is difficult to resist. The title track of her upcoming EP, out 2nd June, it deals with the idea that seeing someone’s pain and heartache can start a chain reaction and result in the cracks starting to show, and bring about fresh heartbreak in someone else. To create so much joyful spirit from such a dark topic is no mean feat, but Kris pulls it off. It won’t take long until this song wins you over and has you singing along. In fact, it’s the kind of track that will have you shamelessly singing for weeks to come!
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Top Tracks: LAOISE – Halfway
The latest single from upcoming Irish electropop artist LAOISE is a track that seeps its way into the inner workings of your mind. ‘Halfway’ draws you in with its breathy vocals, subtle mystical vibes and bewitching melodies. It’s a song that refuses to be ignored, pulling you in deeper like some siren luring you towards the shore. It’s ethereal atmosphere, somewhere between Halsey and Stevie Nicks, suddenly shifts towards the end of the track into seductive R&B territory, with soulful organ soundscapes and understated funky bass lines. Both of the distinct styles that ‘Halfway’ explores are superbly executed and perfectly matched to produce one of the most gorgeous and engaging singles of the year. If this track is anything to go by, then we can expect great things from this immensely talented Galway girl in the near future.
Top Tracks: Hidden Cabins – Bet It All On You
New Jersey duo Craig Cirinelli and Brian Hofgesang have released their new single, the slow-burning epic ‘Bet It All On You’. Over the course of ten minutes the tension within the track builds from broody folk intro, through to its thrilling cathartic climax. It’s like the soundtrack of some desperate last stand, resolute as the end slowly approaches and storm clouds gather. The song’s dark atmosphere and emotive guitar tones show hints of classic Nick Cave and the powerful vocals towards the end of the track are reminiscent of Maynard James Keenan. Hidden Cabins have managed to build a powerful epic from the simplest of arrangements, which is a feat in itself. The track grows and takes you on a journey, but never outstays it’s welcome.
Spotlight!: Scott Lloyd
There are many different subtle shades that are all covered by the “singer/songwriter” label. No matter which nuanced little subcategory may take your fancy, Manchester based artist Scott Lloyd is sure to deliver what you’re looking for with his new EP. ‘In The Garden’, with its fleshed-out indie sound, hints of harmonica and nostalgia driven lyrics, is reminiscent of Billy Bragg and comes across as quintessentially British. The irresistible melody of ‘Four Cities’ is textbook Billy Joel, the bright, heartwarming ‘Lavender’ brings to mind John Denver with its rich lyrical imagery, and ‘Wild Flower’ sees Scott stepping into darker, alternative territory. It’s on ‘Cornish Coast’ however where everything comes together and we see Scott at his very best. It’s the kind of song that could equally be the soundtrack of a bright new dawn, eagerly ushering in whatever adventure awaits on the horizon, or of a forlorn longing for summers long since passed. Scott’s honest and uncompromising songwriting has exceeded my expectations and his music is sure to be a rewarding listen for indie folk fans.
Scott Lloyd’s latest EP In The Garden is out 9th March for fans of Jake Bugg, Dry The River and Tom Odell
Top Tracks: Mount Song – Halo
The new single from this Swedish singer/songwriter is an understated affair. Jacob Johansson, under his moniker Mount Song, has released the haunting ‘Halo’ from his upcoming album released 7th May. ‘Halo’ is a brief but bittersweet track that deals with those times when the weight of the world, and the demons within, just become too much to bear. Built around a simple acoustic melody, it adds some lovely harmonies and subtle psychedelica to give a real dreamlike feel. It’s the perfect track for those late nights where your swirling thoughts keep you from drifting to sleep; it captures the sensation better than any other song I know. There is plenty of beauty to be found in sadness, and Mount Song has found just the right balance with this single.
Album Review: Ed Sheeran – Divide
Ed Sheeran – DivideAlbum Review: The Desert Line – You and the Earth, You and the Sea
The Desert Line – You and the Earth, You and the Sea
Indie Rock | Americana | Art Rock
68%
Interview: Haunt The Woods
With their debut EP The Line, Cornish quartet Haunt The Woods made it immediately apparent that they are one of the most exciting new acts in the country. Combining rustic folk, imposing prog proficiency, and the raw, unbridled passion of artists such as Jeff Buckley, I’d struggle to conceive of a better combination of sounds if I tried! With a panache for pastoral vibes, an ear for detail, and a simply spine-tingling delivery, naturally I just had to chat with them about their new release: Continue reading
Top Tracks: Something Mechanical – Gunn
Canadian rockers Something Mechanical are back with their first new music since their eponymous 2015 debut album. Taken from their upcoming EP Less Than Human, released 17th March, their latest single ‘Gunn’ is a no-nonsense, hard-hitting rock anthem, firing shots at disloyal friends from days gone by. The gritty vocals, driving rhythm and furious guitar work is sure to appeal to fans of the classic grunge sound, as well as of modern hard rock heroes such as Shinedown and Alter Bridge. Focussed and finely tuned, the new track from the Edmonton quartet is a sure sign that their upcoming EP is going to be a real force to be reckoned with. If you’re looking for some straightforward, in-your-face rock then look no further.
Live Review: Billy Bibby & The Wry Smiles, The Leopard Doncaster, 25th Feb 2017
Belwood Music has found plenty of new favourites over the past couple of years. One act that has certainly earned a place in our hall of fame is former Bottleman Billy Bibby and his new band The Wry Smiles. Post-Catfish he has maintained his high standard of songwriting and has made an assured and promising start to his solo career. Billy was our first ever interviewee and his track ‘Are You Ready?’ found its way into our top ten songs of the year. All that has been missing was the chance to see the lads in action up on stage. I caught up with them at The Leopard to see if they could keep up their high standard for the eager Yorkshire crowd. Continue reading
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