John Smyths – I’m Dutch
John Smyths is a modern country, Americana artist. Inspired by the raw and rustic elements of roots style music, he creates groovy singalong music. Taken from his latest album is the track, ‘I’m Dutch’. It is gritty, sweet, loud and heartfelt all at the same time. The artist remembers his home country of Netherlands. Goes back to the good old days and draws a really memorable sense of self. There’s a lot of that Alan Jackson, George Strait type influence. Especially with the clear storytelling, familiar melodies and grounded vocal style. The strong melodic songwriting makes the listening experience rich and immersive. John’s vocals fluidly adapt to changing country landscapes within the song. It’s soft and heartfelt within the intimate piano circle. Gains strength and a boldness as the guitar and beats jump into the picture. Bright, joyful and full of life, the song is really engaging.
Grey & Purple Songbook – Fateful Ski Trip
Theatrical and performative, Grey & Purple Songbook is a progressive folk and orchestral pop project. Their latest release is ‘Fateful Ski Trip’, a track that recounts the dramatic Norwegian historical rescue of a young royal heir during a winter storm. The soundscape brings alive a storytelling atmosphere. Almost instantly, the listener is captivated and immersed in the ethos of the song. There are notable Nordic moments with a few strokes of jazz and folk rock. All this to create a fantastic musical spread that you can journey with and be transported by. The strongest stylistic reference within the track is the early-to-mid-1970s progressive folk-rock tradition. Expressive guitar, playful flute and the ever changing sound is a strong throwback to the musical style and philosophies of Jethro Tull. Add to that traditional Nordic folk accents, cinematic production, and strong vocal imagery, and you’ve got yourself a new favorite travel track.
Mt. Kili – Don’t Start A War
Mt. Kili is an intimate alt folk banner that creates a rich underworld of cinematic folklore. ‘Don’t Start A War’ is the latest single from this artist. The song is crafted in a plane that absorbs the complexity of wars. Its tragedies and lamentous characters, alongside the hope and the hope for peace. So the atmosphere that comes floating in is one that is intrinsically divided. As the song progresses, you get to see how the divided styles interact and the mood that is created as a result is quite profound. The track opens off moody and understated, brewing in a dark and moody sphere. With soft moments of light and warmth, the track’s duality comes out. Acoustic-led songwriting, intimate vocals and subtle alternative-rock textures set up a reflective space. Add to that the spaciousness of the soundscape, the airy streams, subtle gradients that draw you in. These are stylistically reminiscent of artists like Bon Iver, Novo Amor and Sufjan Stevens.
Cassy Judy – Orchestra of Death
Cassy Judy, Jewelz Hanssens and Lisa Hanssens have collaborated on this new single, ‘Orchestra of Death’. The track is a pleasing blend of experimental folk, theatrical pop and quirky cabaret. The acoustics and instrumentals form seemingly spontaneously; with the vocals following suit. The artists lean into the eccentric folk and the unconventional sounds to create an atmosphere of comical alienation. We see some vocal experimentation and rhythmic dynamism that really elevates the dry and deadpan tone. The theatrical storytelling and unusual lyrical imagery further add to the appeal of the song. Using instrumental colors intentionally, they round up the theme into the song, in a very wholesome way. It’s immersive as well, especially because once you’re in it, you don’t feel the absurdity standing out of the real world. You’re absorbed by the song, the context of it, the mood and the ideas presented in it. If you enjoy artists like Serge Gainsbourg, The Decemberists, and The Tiger Lillies, you’ll love this one.
Paul Ariss – Don’t Hold Back
Paul Ariss is a folk rock artist and singer-songwriter based in the UK. He is known for his melodic style and immersive storytelling. Presented with his voice, the stories seem to come to life, interspersed with affecting emotion and memorable scenery. His latest release is ‘Don’t Hold Back’. The artist orients instrumentally towards rock guitar traditions and modern singer-songwriter associations. We see a lot of melodic flows. Tethered to a scaling rhythm and uniform chord progressions, it’s like climbing up and down a wave. His vocals are warm and instantly likable. They have the kind of spirit that absorbs immediately into it. It’s easy to tune into its lull and go with it. It’s a great vehicle for the message of the song. He carries you away with his wise courage and hearty actions. Then, somewhere along the rising and falling, you’ll even feel freed and liberated by the simplicity of it all. Listeners of Tom Petty and Ryan Adams are sure to love the singer-songwriter rock style of this artist. Listen Now!
Check out our Spring Folklore List :
Leave a Reply