Maybe I just read too much into things, but sometimes you find an artist beyond their years, reflected in their songs. Sometimes you hear a voice that sounds as though it has regaled a thousand stories down the years, sharing words that show the wisdom of one who has an intimate knowledge of the world, and it simply doesn’t match up with the artist in question. With his debut EP Maze, Berkshire born singer/songwriter Lorne sounds as though he’s been releasing music all his life. The striking ‘Bread Alone’ shares a message of seizing the day and living life to the fullest, and feels like a ray of sunlight parting the clouds. The subtle electronics on ‘Cocoon’ supplement the elegant piano beautifully, recalling acts ranging from Benjamin Clementine to Bastille. ‘Oil and Water’ and ‘Navigate’ move closer into pop territory, but still maintain the mature and refined vibe that makes Lorne stand out from the crowd. Drawing inspiration from such artists as Peter Gabriel and Damien Rice, this classically trained pianist combines airy atmospheres and pop sensibilities, with his own elegant and sophisticated artistry.
Fans of Birdy, Five For Fighting, Bon Iver and Tom Odell should check out his debut EP Maze
Contrary to the old adage “don’t judge a book by its cover”, I often find album artworks can make a very important first impression. With even just a passing glance at the cover of their new EP Circles, you can’t help but be drawn to Lightscape’s latest work. An entire world in miniature standing over you, imposing and awe-inspiring, is the perfect metaphor for the music contained within. With fierce riffs, emphatic drum work, and even faint little electronic flourishes, all crowned by Will Overton’s towering melodic vocals, this alt rock quintet from Norwich have crafted an impressive sound. The slow build of ‘By Design’ kicks off the EP in fantastic form, while the anthemic ‘More To Life’ searches for a greater meaning and purpose as it winds its way through some of the record’s heaviest moments. The hard-hitting break-up track ‘Press Rewind’ delivers some passionate vocals, the relatively stripped back slow burner ‘Haven’t Got The Time’ makes a nice change of pace, while the epic ‘Live In Fear’ ends the EP on a high, showing great light and shade and standing out as Lightscape’s best work yet. These lads are on fine form, showing the rest of the country’s alternative scene how it’s done and leaving you wanting more.
The Eskies – And Don’t Spare The Horses
It’s that time again, where we like to promote some of our favourite fellow blogs and find out some of their current favourite music. This month it’s the turn of the lovely Abby from US blog Indientry, based in Columbus, Ohio. I consider myself well versed in music, but even I feel lost amongst all that’s offered on Indientry. The site is like a lucky dip, even if there’s no names that immediately jump out at you, you can be sure that you can dive in anywhere and expect to find something new and exciting. There are few sites so diverse when it comes to genre. Anything you can imagine, and some things that I doubt I ever could, can be found within. If I’ve caught your interest then here’s a taste of what you can find over at Indientry. 
The Rigs – World On Fire
Belwood Music 