Tag: Folk

Dan Bettridge Releases EP ‘Good People. Bad Habits’

Dan Bettridge Releases EP ‘Good People. Bad Habits’

by Rebecca Llewellyn ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

The most experimental and groundbreaking of his work to date. Dan Bettridge has made a fierce return to music, in the run up to latest EP ‘Good People. Bad Habits.’

Lyrically immersing himself in new depths, whilst musically reaching new heights. Bettridge has boldly tread into unexplored territory, harnessing newfound vocal effects, an array of instruments and an unhindered style of songwriting. All of which cumulate, to produce an EP that is earth-shatteringly good.

Lead single Habitat initially arrived in January, and set the pace for how Bettridge planned to take 2021 by storm. Its explorative, synth infused sound removes any acoustic-shackled-perceptions we had previously associated with Bettridge. Opening our ears to not only a different sound, but to a different side of this intriguing musician. All the while, being completely unsure of which direction he is about to take next.

As cutting lyrics pierce through on second release L.A.F.E. Bettridge pours out a dreamlike jangle of hooks, that meet with haunting harmonies. Looking inwards, pondering life, love and identity in a way that we have never heard before.

Penultimate single Sign soars with emotional empathy. Softer in style than previous releases, L.A.F.E and Habitat. Bettridge revisits his roots, merely in sound alone, as the track provides such a powerful emotive catharsis. Incapable to compare to any prior release. This symbolic step backwards in sound, is a bold step forward for Bettridge. A mirror image reflection, that remains similar, but somehow changed in so many ways.

Closing ‘Good People. Bad Habits’ with who am I? Bettridge nods to a past, present and future self. As acoustic strings lace against lovelorn lyrics, memories evoke and vocals ponder. There is a comforting warmth, yet a brisk biting realisation. As “who am I?” proves itself to be the perfect closing question. Bettridge has embraced a brand new side to his music and ploughed through personal progression on ‘Good People. Bad Habits.’ Yet as human as you and I, Bettridge remains linked to days gone by and fleeting pangs of what has passed. Truly capturing the notion – who am I?

As sweet in sentiment, as it is in sound. Dan Bettridge has delivered an EP that stuns. Steeped in memories but pulled forward by the future. It is surely a catalyst toward the bright beacons that await not only such a talented multi-instrumentalist musician, but a soul-stirring songwriter.

Stream ‘Good People. Bad Habits.’ on all platforms now via Channel Analog Records

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Dan Bettridge Releases Latest Single ‘Sign’ Ahead of EP ‘Good People. Bad Habits.’

Dan Bettridge Releases Latest Single ‘Sign’ Ahead of EP ‘Good People. Bad Habits.’

by Rebecca Llewellyn ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

With just over a month to go until the release of highly anticipated EP ‘Good People. Bad Habits.’ Dan Bettridge has gifted us with another slice of what we can expect, in the form of latest single Sign.

Following a hiatus from releasing music since 2019. The dawn of 2021 saw the appearance of initial ‘Good People. Bad Habits.’ offering, Habitat. The electro style composition was unheard of from Dan Bettridge before now. Yet, layering synths against a cool percussion provided a fresh vibrance, and the ability to add a new genre, into an already impressive repertoire. Alongside EP co-producer Minas, Dan Bettridge is embracing a bold experimental style, and we like it. 

Sign affirms what had been pre-empted from gorgeously emotive April release Love Ain’t For Everyone. Heavy in sentiment and flooded with memories. Dan Bettridge evokes a softer, more sultry sound, that certainly knows how to get pulses racing. 

Placing vocals at the forefront, the emphasis is lyrical, captivated by moody blue vocals. Stirring our senses and brooding nostalgia. With co-lyricists Hannah Grace and Martin Luke Brown at his side, it was clear that Sign was destined to swim with emotional depth. 

Having awakened a new era within his music. Dan Bettridge stands unapologetic and unafraid. Brave and bold. Words can barely emphasise the evolution we have witnessed from this musician. 

Whether it is a period of growth, or a period of reflection. Old stirring emotions or a contemporary change. What remains, is that Dan Bettridge has the ability to tap into our most inner emotions. Capturing fleeting moments of his life in sheer beauty through the medium of music. 

We await ‘Good People. Bad Habits.’ with bated breath.

Stream ‘Sign’ on all platforms now via Channel Analog Records

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Rona Mac Releases Latest Single Weapon

Rona Mac Releases Latest Single Weapon

by Rebecca Llewellyn ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Rona Mac is a musical enigma nestled in the heart of Pembrokeshire, West Wales. Wind swept by the sea, and mysteriously combed by the countryside. Debut album Sheelah was nothing shy of mesmerising. Aching with earnest acoustics, laced against licks of fierce, raw lyrical honesty. Rona Mac set our souls alight with an untamed DIY approach, that resulted in the most confessional, heartfelt body of work. 

Often so bold as to go where no lyricist has gone before, Rona Mac’s charm exudes from her unwavering realness. Writing, performing, mixing and mastering initial indie-folk tracks alone. Rona relished in clattering makeshift instruments together to create song. Curating her debut in the cosy corner of a caravan. Carefully extracting each passing thought, each pang of a memory, each pestering desire to scream out how she truly felt. To capture songs that played out like snapshots of her life, in the hope of awakening and inspiring others. 

Returning in 2021 with latest single ‘Weapon’. Rona Mac is out to make her mark on the music industry, and make an impact she certainly does. Breaking boundaries, Rona soars with a newfound untamed sound, as ‘Weapon’ quickly engulfs each and every one of its listeners. Brooding over the bark of a heavy bass guitar, before bursting into the addictive fizz of an indie-pop anthem. Gone are the pots and pans as makeshift drums, and welcomed are the grazes from electric guitar strings. This meaner, moodier style adds an unexpected but gorgeous grit. Allowing Rona Mac to delve even deeper into her intoxicating lyrical honesty.

Expansive and undeniably different, ‘Weapon’ is musically miles away from debut DIY album Sheelah. Yet this intriguing switch of styles shows clear progression for Rona Mac, and will leave listeners desperately needing to hear more. 

A standout symbol for queer identity, a blazing feminist icon, bundled up in dog-eared folk tenderness. Rona Mac is the glorious hippie muse we all yearn to be, and will certainly yearn to listen to. 

Stream ‘Weapon’ on all platforms now via Rose Parade Recording Co.

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Feature: Get To Know Folk Musician Alcie Bela and Latest Single ‘Forest’

Feature: Get To Know Folk Musician Alcie Bela and Latest Single ‘Forest’

by Rebecca Llewellyn ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

A fresh face in South Wales’ indie music scene, singer-songwriter Alcie Bela is mystifying. Perfectly pairing dark witted lyrics, to a delicate acoustic folk sound. The musician is currently recording her upcoming EP at a studio deep within the heart of Welsh woodland. Ensuring the seeds of her kindled earthy spirit are sown. As debut single ‘Don’t Leave Me Hanging’ arrived in August of 2020. We gazed in awe, upon music that was refreshingly different. Without doubt leaving many of us eager to hear more. 

Vocals sharp to the tongue, Alcie Bela is able to pierce through any softened music backdrop. Usually comprising a flurry of acoustic strums and the patter of drums. Allowing us to envisage Bela as the burning flames themselves, rather than those who gather around the campfire. A musician that draws influence from the powerfully soft Aldous Harding, Daughter and Sia, entwined with poetic notions from Tom Waits and Leonard Cohen. Bela swiftly meanders between melancholy musings and a gorgeously rousing rage. Exuding a sound so rich and vibrant, yet fascinatingly thought-provoking.

Latest single ‘Forest’ strengthens Bela further again. First to be released from her forthcoming EP, the track delves into a soundscape even more expansive than her previous debut ‘Can’t Leave Me Hanging’. We feel the singer take on an up-tempo, almost cool country approach to her style. Shaking off any past preconceptions of “soft” and presenting a confident musician, firmly comfortable in her own footsteps. Bela struts through her sophomore single, as waves of empowerment and fierce feminism shine from her music. While bold and unconstrained lyrics call for something more meaningful, than a string of bad one-night stands. 

We ponder whether Alcie Bela looks inward for her bitter-sweet vocal vengeance, or if her words are instead outspoken projections towards society at large? One thing is for certain, this fiery and captivating musician is surely expected to set the music scene alight. As fractious yet gentle folk music fuels the fires of her enigmatic creativity. 

Stream ‘Forest’ on all platforms now:

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Rebecca Hurn Releases Single ‘Love Like This’

Rebecca Hurn Releases Single ‘Love Like This’

by Rebecca Llewellyn ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

With a voice so soothing and tranquil, we find ourselves transported by the breathtaking beauty exuding from Welsh singer-songwriter Rebecca Hurn. Latest single ‘Love Like This’ pairs long, sweeping vocal pitches with an elegant cradle of instruments. Kept strikingly tender, through a subtle and soft musical composure. It is delicate yet daring, hereby its lyrical content. 

A thrilling love story, the track proves to be a captivating listen. The tale of two star-crossed lovers, and a seemingly doomed fate. Yet their adoration for one another outshines all odds. ‘Love Like This’ is a whirlwind fairytale romance, embodied though music. Both enchanting and cathartic, the track swells with emotion and a loving grace.

Placing itself gently among the realms of indie-pop. The track straddles elegantly between a cool twinkling pop sound, and an immersion within the growing indie-folk/alternative scene. Echoing vocals reminiscent of both pop sensation Maisie Peters, and folk-queen Laura Marling. Rebecca Hurn’s capability of softly blending these two genres in such a gorgeous way, surely stems the roots for unrivalled future success. 

Already making an impact, Rebecca Hurn received an award for earlier single ‘Waves’ at the Independent Music Awards in New York City, and was again nominated upon the release of ‘Homesick’. Making her the only Welsh artist to ever receive the prize, throughout the ceremonies 18 year history, and the only unsigned UK artist to be nominated in the same category consecutively.

Latest single ‘Love Like This’ was released as a result of Rebecca Hurn being one of twenty artists selected for the Re_Balance Programme; a pioneering initiative providing studio and recording space for emerging female musicians. At Old Castle Studios in Leeds, Rebecca Hurn teamed up with award-winning producer and sound engineer Rhiannon Mair, along with studio assistant Laura Williams. It was here, that her own original song ‘Love Like This’, was then recorded and mastered over five days.

A passionate and driven individual, Rebecca Hurn’s music is soothing and comforting, but also incredibly inspiring. With a global reach firmly in her sights. We wait with bated breath, to marvel as to where her voice will take her next.

Purchase ‘Love Like This’ via the link below:

https://smarturl.it/iw3qmz

Stream on all platforms now

Catch Rebecca Hurn performing at the Isle of Wight Festival in 2021

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FEATURE: Introducing Mojo JNR and Latest Single ‘Peach Out’

FEATURE: Introducing Mojo JNR and Latest Single ‘Peach Out’

by Rebecca Llewellyn ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Mojo JNR is the alias of South Wales Musician Josh David-Read. Pairing the dreamiest of summer soundscapes, with husky vocal musings. His canvas of creativity spans far and wide, crafting music that will surely delight any listener. With a deep and unique approach to indie-pop, composed from the world around him. Josh harnesses a brave expression of his own thoughts, feelings and emotions. Utilising a vibrant spectrum of personal experience, to share his colourful musical universe with us. Friends and those he meets along the way may play a helping hand in what finally culminates as Mojo JNR. Yet the driving force, evoking and breathing life into the project, truly is Josh himself.

The Artwork for Peach Out created by Mojo JNR and Ci Gofod

Sophomore single Peach Out is a clever play on words. Written about holistic methods of coping with anxiety. The idea for the track was originally derived from a text sent by Josh, with Peace Out, having been auto-corrected to Peach Out. This little quirk looped around in Josh’s mind, and together with a bit of research, he stumbled upon a crystal called peach aventurine. Discovering its benefits to soothing stress and worry, the concept behind Peach Out was born.

Josh explains how “Peach Out is essentially a light-hearted bedroom-pop track, focusing on how difficult it is to relax, even when you are doing nothing.” With swirling thoughts around anxiety, coupled with lockdown. Josh found himself determined to write the lyrics for the track, record, and self-release it by the end of July. Achieving that and more, Josh has proven himself to be a complex and motivated musician. It is truly awe-inspiring to behold his creative flow, from start to finish.

Peach Out pairs husky soulful vocals with simmering instruments and synths. With lead vocals from Josh harmonising exquisitely with backing vocals of fellow-musician Ci Gofod (Jack Thomas Davies) who features on the track. As the two vocals gently brush off one another, their overall warmth combined with keeping the pitch fairly low, results in a sultry summer-time track. Peach Out will perfectly resonate with fans of folk-rock singer Paolo Nutini, as well as the power-pop musings of an 80s Bowie.

Instruments are not overbearing, but instead infuse with the gorgeous vocal musk concocted, to create a soft yet rousing track. Without being raucous or loud, Peach Out is a woozy exploration of self-expression, evoking imagery of moody sunset blues.

Peach Out swiftly follows Mojo JNR’s debut offering Miles Away, which was released back in May. A brooding and slower guitar-fuelled love song, Miles Away stirs our senses, bringing to the forefront that one person we all need to move on from. With a smooth ability to easily transcribe a breadth of emotions, into lyrics. Josh is a remarkably keen songwriter, and it is clear to hear this talent reflected through his music. Miles Away is a marriage of music to lyrics, and a strikingly beautiful debut.

Mojo JNR is certainly one to watch, and amongst many others, I find myself incredibly excited to behold what the future has in store for this musical muse.

Peach Out and Miles Away are available to stream on Spotify

Follow Josh on Social Media

https://www.facebook.com/MojoJNR/

https://www.instagram.com/itsmojojnr/

https://twitter.com/joshdavid_read

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This Is The Kit Announce New Album ‘Off Off On’

This Is The Kit Announce New Album ‘Off Off On’

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Since the acclaimed success of  Moonshine Freeze in 2017. A further album from mesmerising folk band This Is The Kit has been highly anticipated. Having teased fans with new songs during shows for over a year now. Today, our first real glimpse into This Is The Kit’s 6th studio album Off Off On was given. Exclusively through BBC6Music, the band debuted the upcoming albums lead single This Is What You Did. 

Unmistakably folk music at its best, the single bursts to life with gorgeous banjo playing, before the sweet vocals of Kate Stables weave through. A song embodying entrancing thoughts and excess time to ponder. Lyrics depict being trapped within yourself and the deprecating thoughts that accompany those feelings of isolation. Swirling rumination, paranoia and a cycle that repeats itself, in a saga of sleepless nights and endless days. More prominent now than ever for many of us. 

Described by Kate Stables herself as a panic attack within a song. The message and lyrics are both incredibly emotive. Yet, the song is just so beautifully delivered, you can’t help but reach for that play button over and over again. 

A stunning introduction to what is set to be an incredibly beautiful album. I am so eagerly excited for any future releases to come. 

Off Off On is scheduled to be released on 23rd October 2020 via Rough Trade Records 

Pre Order via the link below

https://www.musicglue.com/this-is-the-kit/?ffm=FFM_a4f3ef918d777d16df8b067dbc640776