A great song deserves to have an equally great story behind it, and this latest track from rising singer/songwriter Sophia Alexa does just that. We all have our own burdens to bear, our own emotional baggage to carry. All the doubts and fears, insecurities and regrets, that drag us down like stones in our pockets. Sophia’s uplifting new single ‘Stones’ was born from an interaction with her father that provided a fresh perspective. A moment when she was given a stone and told that it represents the love that others have for her, and that it’s the only stone she need carry. A beautiful exchange, whose sentiment is now immortalised in song. I adore how the frail, delicate folk of ‘Stones’ opening moments gives way to a subtle swell of guitars, Sophia’s most strong and assured melodies, and a propulsive driving drum beat. That surge in energy truly captures the sensation of a weight being lifted, of a helping hand lifting you out of the darkness and pushing you forward towards a brighter tomorrow.