You Kill Me – Katie Nicholas ft. Robert Vincent

The title of Katie Nicholas’ new single has become hauntingly relevant. The story of ‘You Kill Me’ is about forbidden love but it takes on a more sinister meaning in the context of its release. It almost didn’t see the light of day this week due to a technical error, exposing the dark side toContinue reading “You Kill Me – Katie Nicholas ft. Robert Vincent”

Mikki Evans & Gary Quinn – Mr Right Now

Mikki Evans has been blessed with a crack team of UK Country’s finest on ‘Mr Right Now’. Not only has Tim Prottey-Jones had a hand in its production, but Gary Quinn joins her as both co-writer and performer. The song is a lovely duet featuring soft and subtle vocals that sparkle around a light andContinue reading “Mikki Evans & Gary Quinn – Mr Right Now”

Nia Nicholls – Goldilocks

In ‘Goldilocks’, the new single from Nia Nicholls, three bears are the least of her worries. Instead, taking the dialectical tension at the heart of the well-known fairytale, and subverting it in the context of a relationship, she highlights a man as the cause of her troubles. Using her inimitable style of light-hearted country-pop, sheContinue reading “Nia Nicholls – Goldilocks”

Socially Anxious and Single: A Lesson in Facing the Storm

“I think you only truly discover who you actually are, and what you actually like, once you’re alone” – Catherine Gray I don’t normally listen to the Word for Today podcast unless I’m away at something like this. It is the first time in two years that I’ve travelled up to Blackpool for the BritishContinue reading “Socially Anxious and Single: A Lesson in Facing the Storm”

Jeorgia Rose – Blooming

Jeorgia Rose’s debut album is one of the most eagerly anticipated releases of 2024, and it doesn’t disappoint. Clearly influenced by some of the foremost females in contemporary Country Music, ‘Blooming’ combines elements from across the spectrum to create an iridescent garden of sweet-smelling songs. The surprise of the opening title track is in itsContinue reading “Jeorgia Rose – Blooming”

April Moon @ The Arts Bar, Liverpool

There is a lovely ambience for April Moon’s show at the Arts Bar in Liverpool. After a mountainous climb up the stairs to reach Studio 3, my anxious mind is put at ease by mixed seating – a choice of table or row – in a space that exudes friendly and welcoming. Their support act,Continue reading “April Moon @ The Arts Bar, Liverpool”

See Emily Play – Yoko Ono was Seven Years Older Than John

There is nothing like a solo trip across the Deep South to reignite a passion for music. Emily Ireland’s fire had seemingly died due her experiences of sexism and misogyny in the industry. But now she’s back with a blaze of alt-country swagger, starting with new single ‘Yoko One is Seven Years Older Than John’.Continue reading “See Emily Play – Yoko Ono was Seven Years Older Than John”

Katy Hurt – Oh Girl

Every single that Katy Hurt puts out simply heightens the anticipation for her album. ‘Oh Girl’ is no different even as it invites reflection. There is a calmness to its delivery and a softness to its touch. It treads carefully, gently probing feelings and emotions to unearth an unnamed experience. It’s ambiguous insomuch as itsContinue reading “Katy Hurt – Oh Girl”

Maya Lane – Diary of an Overthinker

Maya Lane’s EP ‘Diary of an Overthinker’ delves deep into introspection and vulnerability, with wisdom, understanding, and acknowledgement of human experiences. Through original perspectives and powerful musical arrangements, the songs explore themes of heartbreak, self-acceptance, and uncertainty, culminating in a poignant and relatable journey. This EP stands out for its unashamed exploration of humanity, making it a notable release in 2024.

Black Deer Live @ Strawberry Fields

Walking into Strawberry Fields and hearing Motel Sundown sing about Memories, Dreams and Reflections felt a bit like a sign. I had been regrettably late up to that point, thanks to Sunday afternoon traffic and cancelled trains. But then to catch such a chorus floating on the breeze as I ventured into the place madeContinue reading “Black Deer Live @ Strawberry Fields”