Metal Bubble Trio • Cucumber • 2024

www.metalbubbletrio.com

Discussing the “Cucumber” single, Dost notes, "I knew the album would be called ‘Cucumber’ and that there would be a title track long before I knew what that meant. It just felt right - Cucumber. It kept percolating in my head, lyrics gradually formed, and I worked with Chris Hatfield to help bring it to life. The song kind of brings the themes of the album full-circle. It’s about the bits of information that get lost when people die, get divorced, or otherwise lose touch. The recipe only your grandma could make, that’s impossible to replicate. The breakfast spot you went to in Brooklyn that you don’t want to trouble an ex to ask about.

The Routes • Surfin’ Pleasures • 2024

The unstoppable surf-rock innovators The Routes return with their latest release, Surfin’ Pleasures, out on November 8th via Topsy-Turvy Records. Known for their "beat-you-to-death surf music" (as described by Iggy Pop), the band takes a bold new direction by reimagining the iconic music of Joy Division.

Following their successful surf interpretations of Kraftwerk and Buzzcocks, Surfin’ Pleasures is not a typical tribute album. Instead of straightforward cover versions, The Routes have carefully deconstructed 12 of Joy Division’s classic tracks—drawing subtle inspiration from the original melodies and rhythms to craft something wholly unique. The result? A head-spinning collection of 60s surf guitar instrumentals that pay homage to the post-punk legends while transforming their songs into a sonic wave of reverb-drenched, retro surf rock.

Fans can expect beloved Joy Division tracks like "A Means to an End" and "Ice Age" to get a full-on 60s drag race soundtrack treatment, while "Transmission" channels The Astronauts’ timeless sound, and "Digital" morphs into a beach party anthem. Whether you’re a surf rock aficionado or a die-hard Joy Division fan, Surfin’ Pleasures offers something fresh and exciting for all music lovers.

The album cover is a standout in itself, featuring a reimagined design from British design icons Peter Saville and Malcolm Garrett. A playful take on Saville’s iconic Unknown Pleasures artwork, the pulsar lines are reworked into the sound wave of a reverb tank, echoing the album’s retro surf vibe with a nod to Bridget Riley-inspired op art.

Is this project blasphemy or musical alchemy? You decide. One thing is certain—The Routes have delivered another future cult classic that will either delight or disturb for years to come.

https://theroutesjp.bandcamp.com/

The Bluetones • Drive Thru EP • 2024

The Bluetones, the legendary British indie rock band hailing from West London, have officially announced the release of their highly anticipated new EP, marking their first new music since 2010. This fresh release, which also inaugurates the band's very own label, Brainhole Records, is the first of a trilogy set to roll out over the next 6-8 months.

Formed in 1993, The Bluetones quickly established themselves as a force in the UK music scene with thirteen Top 40 singles and three Top 10 albums. Although the band first rose to prominence during the Britpop era, their influence and artistry have never wavered. After years of successful tours and revisiting their iconic back catalogue, the band is ready to share their next chapter with the world.

“For the first time since we formed the music isn’t driven by an outside agenda, or a need to fill somebody else’s schedule. It feels like the purest thing we’ve done since we were a signed band” says frontman Mark Morriss.

 

ifitbeyourwill S04E10 • Celina of Future Star

Celina from Future Star shares her fascinating journey from a childhood filled with music to her career as a successful artist. Growing up with a piano teacher for a mother and a musician father, Celina’s life was enriched with musical experiences that fuelled her passion. From a humorous anecdote involving Sarah McLachlan's manager to the communal joy of choir singing, she reflects on how these moments shaped her artistic path. The conversation underscores the deep connection and cultural significance of shared musical experiences, sparking thoughts on the rarity and beauty of communal singing in today's world.

Celina reveals her transition from a DIY musician to working with Men Records. We discuss the support and structure this brings, allowing her to focus more on the craft while maintaining her musical essence. Wrapping up with admiration for Celina's artistic achievements, we offer encouragement for her future endeavours and reflect on the imaginative journey through her unique lens. Filled with anticipation, we look forward to the continued evolution of her music and the shared moments that await.

futurestar.rocks

While dreaming about houses that have been torn down and shows that happened in venues that don't exist anymore, Future Star explores the space between now and then with their upcoming album It's About Time!. A retrospective on seven years of songwriting, It's About Time! reminds us that a moment can go on infinitely, a memory can be shared, and something might have changed when you weren't looking.

Willie Nelson • Do You Realize?? • 2024

https://willienelson.com/

Willie Nelson is now in his 7th decade as a songwriter, performer and recording artist, but one of his most underrated talents is song interpretation. Over his career he has tackled songs from across the world of music, making each his own. Now for his 76th solo studio album and 153rd album overall as he celebrates his 91st year, Willie turns his gaze to a collection of songs by rock legends, idiosyncratic singer songwriters, altrock heroes and indie folk artists.

 

The second single from the album is Willie’s take on “Do You Realize??” One of The Flaming Lips’ most enduring songs is an existentialist masterpiece well-suited to the tao of Willie. From their perspective, the Lips loved it. “He’s just such a unique singer,” lead singer Wayne Coyne says. “You hear one second of his voice, and you go, that’s him.” Fellow bandmember and song co-writer Steven Drozd says his only regret is that his late father won’t get to hear it: “I wish he was still alive to see this happening, that Willie Nelson is doing a Flaming Lips song I had a part in co-writing. He’d be very proud.”

Porridge Radio • God Of Everything Else • 2024

“More sprawling and subdued than their raw breakthrough LP, 2020’s Every Bad, Clouds finds frontperson Dana Margolin parsing creative exhaustion and crumbling relationships with ragged vulnerability.”

– Pitchfork, The 36 Most Anticipated Albums of Fall 2024

“The cathartic lyricism of the [songs] we’ve heard so far really stands out, as does their intensity, and that has our hopes for this album high.”

– Brooklyn Vegan, 43 Albums We're Anticipating for Fall 2024

“Where the previous single ‘Sick Of The Blues’ has the band’s main songwriter Dana Margolin seeing the light at the end of the tunnel, ‘A Hole In The Ground’ finds us right in the middle of the heartbreak, as Margolin’s voice breaks with unremitting sorrow and ache.” 

– The Needle Drop

Instagram

HotKid • Downtown • 2024

 https://hotkid.ca/

HotKid is the creative vision of Canadian producer, songwriter, and guitarist Shiloh Harrison. For over a decade, Harrison's soothing vocal delivery and knack for writing enduring pop songs have helped HotKid cultivate a cult following around the globe. With four full-length albums and multiple EPs and singles to their name, HotKid’s sound ranges from guitar-driven rock anthems to dreamy, melancholic pop ballads.

Dutch Mustard • Thank You • 2024

“A rousing, triumphant ode to individuality and empowerment” NOTION

“Dutch Mustard make listeners feel hope for the future of rock” The Grammys

"Accomplished" – Iggy Pop - BBC 6 Music | “totally infectious" Jack Saunders - BBC Radio 1

“ethereal thumper” DORK | “Dreamy alt-rock” The Line of Best Fit | “lush and beautiful” CLASH

Snowgoose • Better Listen • 2024

https://www.snowgoose.me.uk/

In the creative pastures of Glasgow’s music scene, Snowgoose stands as a beacon, helmed by the nuanced artistry of Jim McCulloch and Anna Sheard. McCulloch, with his illustrious stints with The Soup Dragons, Isobel Campbell and BMX Bandits, alongside Sheard’s compelling vocal palette, carve out a niche that feels both warmly retrospective and boldly new. Snowgoose gear up for the release of their third album, "Descendant” where they invite us into a place where the complexities of human emotion are laid bare against a backdrop of melodic beauty.

Anna describes the album: "Descendant explores the delicate interplay between the joys of love and the inevitability of loss. Each song navigates the complex emotions that connect these experiences, serving as a reflection on the beauty and pain of impermanence."

Snowgoose have consistently garnered praise for their musical depth and emotive songwriting. Uncut Magazine described their earlier work as "spellbinding," while The Scotsman praised Anna's vocals for invoking "the spirit of Sandy Denny, a soothing instrument no matter what sorrow she is imparting."

"Descendant" is crafted with their exquisite blend of folk and psych. Featuring the guitar of Raymond McGinley (Teenage Fanclub) the keys of Chris Geddes (Belle and Sebastian), the bass of Stevie Jones (Arab Strap), the pedal steel of Tim Davidson (Tracyanne & Danny), and the drums of Stuart Kidd (BMX Bandits) and Adam Stearns (Trembling Bells), this album is a testament to the collaborative spirit of Scottish indie royalty.

ifitbeyourwill S04E09 • Gary Olson of The Ladybug Transistor

Gary Olson from The Ladybug Transistor takes us on a nostalgic journey back to his first encounters with the magic of radio, which ignited his passion for music. Imagine the excitement of flipping through radio dials as a child, stumbling upon the hidden gems of college stations that would ultimately shape a lifelong musical path. Gary reveals how his unconventional songwriting methods, which rely on layering sounds with a four-track recorder rather than traditional chord progressions, have been key in the formation of The Ladybug Transistor. As he shares his unique creative process, we get a glimpse into the collaborative spirit that drives his artistic endeavors, offering insight into how it all comes together to create the band's signature sound.

Gary opens up about the benefits of recording vocals solo in the studio and how working with an engineer can bring a fresh, objective perspective to the mix. We reminisce about the creation of their album "Albemarle Sound," recalling the creative energy that flowed from living together as a band. With the upcoming 25th-anniversary reissue on the horizon, Gary discusses the thrill of unearthing rare demos and b-sides that breathe new life into the album for a new audience. Tune in to explore the artistic choices and collaborations that have defined Ladybug Transistor's enduring legacy.

Titles

ifitbeyourwill • Gary Olson of Ladybug Transistor

Gary Olson Unveils the Secrets Behind the Music

Reviving the Melody Gary Olson's Way

The Creative Tapestry of Ladybug Transistor

Gary Olson's Unique Path in Song craft

Overall, this podcast episode offers a profound exploration of Gary Olson's musical journey, the creative processes behind The Ladybug Transistor, and the band's enduring impact on the indie music scene. The episode is a must-listen for music enthusiasts, offering a blend of nostalgia, innovation, and artistic insight.

https://www.instagram.com/theladybugtransistor/

Windmill • Investments • 2024

matthewthomasdillon.com

Abbey Cone • this little lighter of mine • 2024

“‘this little lighter of mine’ is a title I brought into a write with Josh Lovell and Hank Compton,” shares Cone. “I wanted to put an edgy, cheeky twist on the traditional children's hymn, ‘This Little Light of Mine.’ Ultimately, this song is about vices. We’ve all got 'em and need something to take the edge off every now and then, because life is hard sometimes.” 

Website

ifitbeyourwill S04E08 • Mary Water & Pat Maley of Guidon Bear

Join us on a fascinating musical exploration with Mary Water and Pat Maley from Guidon Bear as they reveal the heart and soul behind their new record, "Internal Systems." Discover how their 25-year collaboration began in the 90s when Pat, captivated by Mary's performances, brought her onto the Yo-Yo Recordings label. With roots in church bands and experimental Philly sounds, their journey highlights music as a therapeutic force that helps them maintain emotional balance and connection, much like a deeply personal therapy session.

Curious about how creativity thrives amidst imperfections? Mary and Pat share their insights into the unblocking of the creative mind, a process akin to embracing spontaneity in live performances. As they unfold the secrets of their dynamic partnership, listeners will gain an understanding of authentic artistic expression, far removed from the polished facades often seen on social media. Adrian Lenker's songwriting class on this very topic provides a backdrop to their unique approach to music-making.

Explore the reality of life on tour with the compelling track "Ride Into the Beast," inspired by the challenges and discoveries encountered on the road. Pat's cultural insights and musical versatility shine through, transforming simple arpeggiations into resonant soundscapes that echo shared experiences. In a world where connections are increasingly sought through screens, this episode prompts reflection on the nature of empathy and the narratives we construct to make sense of our own lives.

https://www.instagram.com/guidonbear

https://downwardlymobilesteelaccelerator.com/

"all the invention and heart we’ve come to expect from Guidon Bear, capturing the experience of real life with a unique sound" - Various Small Flames

"infused with tremendous energy and an authentic approach...exudes a warm, homemade atmosphere." - Start Track

"glistening and cheery melodies and harmonies, perfectly soundtracking lyrics from the real world and lived experiences, reflective and occasionally noir in nature. The result is all-original and

catchy compositions that have that undeniable ear-worm quality." - Aldora Britain Records

"I adore the sense here that feels seeded from 60's bohemian folk, 70's busker punk and maybe from new artists that fueled retro adorations of revisionist indie sounds" - American Pancake

TW Walsh • Wilderness • 2024

Dean & Britta & Sonic Boom • "Pretty Paper” • 2024

https://found.ee/apeaceofus

Cracker • Sick of Goodbyes • Alternative History Version • 2024

https://crackerband.lnk.to/alternative_historyPR

To the uninitiated Cracker might seem to be just another '90s alternative rock band. However, fans recognize that the band is much more than that, having skillfully explored a wide array of styles over nearly 35 years. Regrettably, when newcomers hear a Cracker song and wish to learn more about the band, they often start with algorithmic streaming playlists. These playlists are typically limited to the dozen or so tracks with the most streams. As a result, these playlists are dominated by a few albums from the early 1990s, the heyday of alternative rock radio. There are also a few “greatest hits” compilations for Cracker available, but these, at best, cover only the first third of the band’s 35-year career. Both of these sources overlook some of the band’s most critically acclaimed and fan-favorite work.

Nap Eyes • Dark Mystery Enigma Bird • 2024

Nap Eyes’ songwriter Nigel Chapman says:

"As you’ll see in the video, Dr. Cool’s imagination is intensely vivid and, perhaps it’s all right to say, mind-blowing. We are very lucky for this chance to collaborate with him, and grateful for the huge determination and patience it must have taken to create this powerful story from out of nothing, and fuse it to the ‘Enigma Bird’ song. For us it’s beautiful and moving to participate in this creation.”

“Dark Mystery Enigma Bird” is the final pre-release single from Nap Eyes' much anticipated forthcoming fifth album, The Neon Gate set for release on October 18, 2024. This disjunctive avian fable told through a stream-of-consciousness narrative provides, with its sun-dappled surreality, perhaps the most immediate earworm melodies and arrangements on the record. Unlike most vocals on The Neon Gate, which were recorded live with the band, songwriter Nigel Chapman recorded his vocals for “Enigma Bird” in a blanket-draped children’s cardboard castle in his parents’ basement.

https://www.napeyes.com/

COOL HEAT • Little Romance • 2024

linktr.ee/coolheat

Pickle Darling • The Milkman of Human Kindness • 2024

Pickle Darling lends an uplifting cover of Billy Bragg's poignant classic, "The Milkman of Human Kindness.” Lukas Mayo, the creative force behind Pickle Darling, wields the song’s socially conscious message with a delicate plucking metronome through a terrain of synths, guitar and snappy drum machine.

Instagram

Christopher Lee Lewis • My, oh, My (Summer of ’94) • 2024

Lewis’ ability to pair biting lyrics with unexpected warmth is on full display in ‘They Still Haven’t Figured Out What’s Wrong With Me.’ It’s a record that feels deeply personal yet universally relatable, capturing the messiness of life in all its complexity. psychMag

Christopher Lee Lewis returns with the follow-up to his July release, They Haven’t Figured Out What’s Wrong With Me, both on Sweet Cheetah Records. This second installment delves even deeper into Lewis’ battles and unfiltered narratives that resonate with authenticity and vulnerability. Go ahead--call it a part two, if you'd like. 

ifitbeyourwill S04E07 • Max Bergé of Castle Frank

Can one night change your entire life? Join us as we reconnect with Max from Castle Frank, reflecting on a turbulent yet transformative period following his record launch back in June 2023. Despite the album's acclaim, including a rave review from Exclaim, Max faced a personal crisis on the night of his release show, where excessive drinking led to a subpar performance. This wake-up call sparked his decision to quit alcohol entirely, driving a year of profound personal growth and resilience. Max’s candid recounting of his journey provides invaluable lessons on overcoming both artistic and personal challenges.

But that's not where Max's story ends. In a thrilling new chapter, Max transitions from artist to producer, teaming up with Elliot Isaac on a groundbreaking album blending acoustic, electronic, and hip-hop elements. We'll explore the intricate creative process behind building captivating soundscapes and the unique hurdles and triumphs of remote collaboration. With the first single set to drop in February, this episode offers a sneak peek into the innovative sounds and heartfelt collaborations that will soon grace our ears. Get ready for an inspiring exploration of redemption, creativity, and the relentless pursuit of musical excellence.

 

The wisdom contained within In Your Blood seems preternatural, too great for its bounds. Bergé began work on the album at 19, after arriving in Toronto from the West Coast. The young songwriter wrote the album's nine tracks so as to synthesize his experiences in his new home city. Produced by Nixon Boyd (of now-defunct Hollerado) and Matt Lederman (who's produced and mixed for the Rural Alberta Advantage), the album contains a weather-beaten wisdom, the kind of bravery that a person so young ought not to have shored up, at least not yet. That Bergé possesses the knowledge shared through In Your Blood is part and parcel of the album's gift.  Exclaim!

https://www.castlefrankmusic.com/

Run Remedy • Disciple • 2024

"[Like They Were] is really a beautiful song" - Guy Garvey, BBC 6 Music

 

"Genre bending brilliance" - BBC Radio Manchester

 

"Candid and cool, raw and tender" - The Autumn Roses

 

"[Like They Were] is one of the most beautifully sincere pieces of music of the year." 

- When the Horn Blows

Instagram

Run Remedy, the musical project of New Jersey-born, Manchester-based artist Robin Koob, has released a striking new single titled ‘Disciple’. Known for her genre-defying sound that blends elements of singer-songwriter intimacy, experimental rock dynamics, and psychedelic folk experimentation, Run Remedy's latest track delivers a potent mix of candour, confrontation, and catharsis.

ifitbeyourwill S04E06 • John Andrew Frederick of The Black Watch

Can relentless creativity be a double-edged sword? In our latest episode, we sit down with John Andrew Frederick of The Black Watch, a band boasting an extraordinary catalog of 24 records. Hear John's inspiring journey from a childhood accident to his academic ventures in English literature, revealing how these experiences shaped his prolific musical career. We chat about the band's humble beginnings, including one of their first gigs with Toad the Wet Sprocket.

The transformative role of producers and engineers, the influence of bands like The Beatles and The Cure, and the impact of different band members—John covers it all. Explore how The Black Watch's sound has evolved over decades. Finally, reflect on the changing landscape of the music industry since their first record in 1988, offering valuable insights for both emerging and seasoned musicians navigating today's digital age.

 

“Most of the music comes with a slightly dreamy quality, a perfect match for Fredrick’s lyrics. Some touches of the Cure peak through, but the Black Watch sounds more drawn toward New Zealand or Australia (The Go-Betweens make a reliable reference point)” - Dusted Magazine - dustedmagazine.tumblr.com

Tom Russell • Who's Gonna Build Your Wall • 2022

Nilüfer Yanya • Just A Western • 2024

Speaking about “Method Actor” Nilüfer describes how the concept for the song came together, “I was researching method acting - and from what I read, it’s based on finding this one memory in your life, a life-altering, life-changing memory. The reason why some people find method acting traumatic and maybe not safe mentally, is because you're always going back to that moment. It can be good or bad but you're always feeding off the energy, something that's defined you - and that's what helps you become the character. It’s a bit like being a musician. When you’re performing, you’re still trying to invoke the energy and emotion of when you first wrote it, in that moment. It definitely feels like you're having to recreate or step into that headspace.”

Stars • Set Yourself On Fire (20th Anniversary Edition) • 2024

https://starsband.bandcamp.com/album/set-yourself-on-fire-20th-anniversary-edition

Artists of effortlessly accessible complication, on Set Yourself On Fire, Stars took our worst fears - both personal and global - and slayed the anxieties with their perfect pop music. Widely lauded as amongst their most ambitious, accomplished, and affecting works of their storied existence, Stars Set Yourself On Fire (20th Anniversary Edition) carries the torch of the magical songs that has set so many hearts alight. Vinyl limited to 2000 copies.

The Ladybug Transistor • The Albemarle Sound (25th Anniversary Expanded Edition) • 2024

For the 25th anniversary of The Albemarle Sound, the record has been lovingly reissued on silver vinyl by Happy Happy Birthday to Me Records. The CD includes 12 bonus tracks which break open the year-long recording process with the inclusion of rare B-sides, four-track demos, instrumentals and alternate mixes, further highlighting the band’s mastery of songcraft while teasing out the intricate worlds those songs contain, making a case, as fans of The Ladybug Transistor have known for decades now, that The Albemarle Sound is as infinitely rewarding to return to as it is to visit for the first time.

linktr.ee/theladybugtransistor

p:ano • ba ba ba • 2024

 

‘ba ba ba’ is made out of unwieldy observations about these kinds of changes - impressions about being alive with friends and family and loved ones from the vantage of a very different time, and filtering it all with a sense of bewilderment and gratitude for the here and now. All in its own funny way, and most notably, all for love. 

https://mintrecs.com/pano

Ben Lee • Positive Energy • 2024

https://www.ben-lee.com/

ifitbeyourwill S04E05 • Julia-Sophie

What happens when music becomes both a lifeline and a battleground? Julia-Sophie opens up about her late introduction to music within her French family, where singing was a cherished form of personal expression. She candidly shares her journey starting from learning guitar at 16 and writing her first song to honor her grandfather, to the thrill and hard knocks of busking and forming a pop band at 17. The excitement of being noticed by a Sony representative quickly turned bittersweet, leading her band to disband. Julia reflects on those early days filled with fun, naivety, and a sense of camaraderie that shaped her identity as a musician.

Navigating the transition from band life to a solo career, Julia discusses the challenges and rewards of staying true to herself amid tempting but conflicting opportunities, such as turning down a tobacco advert. She provides a unique perspective on the creative process, contrasting the collaborative energy of a band with the solitary freedom and responsibility of solo work. Julia also offers a peek into her latest album, "Forgive Too Slow," where emotions and traditional songwriting structures play a pivotal role.

Finally, Julia takes us through the tumultuous emotional landscape of releasing music independently. From the self-doubt and isolation of working without a record label to the near-abandonment of her album, her story is one of resilience. The unexpected lifeline from Ba Da Bing Records revitalized her confidence and provided a sense of redemption. Julia shares intimate details about facing rejection and public scrutiny. Yet, through it all, she found validation and connection with listeners worldwide, proving that perseverance in the music industry can lead to profound personal and professional fulfillment.

Instagram

MAITA • I used to feel different • 2024

https://www.maitamusic.com/

The Japanese-American singer-songwriter applies that same approach to her band, MAITA; she only writes songs she intends to finish. She only makes cuts in service of the whole. And once the debris has been blown away, the melodies remain — vibrant, sharp, and often heartbreaking. Fluff

My Morning Jacket • Aren’t We One? • 2024

MYMORNINGJACKET.COM

“Music is the invisible architecture holding up the entire universe,” says Jim James.. Music is the great reminder that life, despite its challenges, still brims with so much beauty. Music connects us back to the source -- the heartbeat of existence, the force of love that binds us all, that boundless ocean of cosmic energy.

“In these times of great confusion and shifting energies, let us remember love, equality, and unity. Let us move past the divide-and-conquer mentality holding us back and come together to uplift one another and heal our planet. A rainbow is the greatest example we have of this in life, where all of the diverse colors come together to form something much greater than they ever could have done on their own. No matter what walk of life one may stroll- who doesn’t enjoy the majesty of a rainbow out in nature?! We are all part of that great ever-changing living rainbow called life. 

Let us act with compassion and listen to the heartbeat of the universe, the voice of conscience within our souls, guiding us towards peace, reminding us that we are all one… all part of the same love. 

“Please help support organizations like @doctorswithoutborders, @amnesty, @glbctzn, and others fighting for a better world.

“Most importantly, register to VOTE and exercise your right to choose. Your voice matters. Every vote counts. Don't let your voice go unheard. In the upcoming election we believe in the leadership of @kamalaharris and @timwallz, who are working tirelessly to create a world of fairness, equality, and peace. Visit @headcountorg for information on registering to vote or voting in your area.”

ifitbeyourwill S04E04 • James Smith of Good Good Blood

Can music heal a broken heart? Join us for an emotional and inspiring conversation with James Smith of Good Good Blood as he returns to the podcast, revealing the profound transformations in his life and music since we last spoke in January 2023. James opens up about the deeply personal loss of his baby girl, Poppy, and how this tragedy shaped his latest album, "Forever Scars," allowing him to channel his grief and creativity into something beautiful and raw.

James's journey is not just about crafting songs but about coping with unimaginable pain and finding solace in the process. He shares poignant insights into how Poppy's short life touched many, from family members to medical staff, and how songwriting has been his lifeline through this difficult period. This episode captures the essence of James's transformation—how he's evolved from a "pre-Poppy" to a "post-Poppy" version of himself, with his music reflecting this profound shift. Listen to a heart-wrenching live performance of "Little Sparrow," a testament to the raw vulnerability and authenticity that now define his work.

The conversation also delves into the collaborative efforts that have breathed new life into James's music. Hear about his unique approach to achieving a lo-fi sound using second-hand instruments and the invaluable partnership with his friend Paul, who brings a meticulous touch to James's spontaneous creativity. Discover how older tracks like "Forever Scars" and "Flowers Bloom" have been reimagined with deeper emotional layers, and get a glimpse into the creation of new songs that push the boundaries of his artistic expression. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking inspiration, resilience, and the healing power of music.

this collection of songs are dedicated to our baby daughter Poppy who unfortunately passed away in December 2023 at just a couple of days old.

the grief of losing a child has really taken its toll - the only real thing I have had to cling onto is making music.

I started tentatively making some new songs before Poppy was born but had to put all that on hold when she arrived.

after she died and we’d had her funeral, I returned to the nebulous versions I had made and was totally overwhelmed by how they resonated with what had happened.

the vibe and words were so on point it was crazy, like the songs knew what was coming.

so I kept at them and finished them and here they are.

i hope you find something in there to enjoy.

thank you x

Avery Lynch • somebody new • 2024

Website

With its delicate piano melody and Avery’s soothing vocals, “somebody new” draws listeners in with its raw, unfiltered honesty. The song is a poignant reflection on a love so profound that it transcends personal desires. “It’s about loving someone so deeply that you wish them happiness, even if it means they find it with someone else,” Avery shares. The song’s beauty lies in its simplicity, making it both deeply touching and profoundly resonant.