This week’s edition of LITM Singer-Songwriter Picks features pieces from Tobias Arbo and more!
Tobias Arbo - “Yellow Woods”
Swedish songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Tobias Arbo blends folk and pop influences to create introspective, emotionally charged music — often drawing comparisons to artists like Bon Iver, he presents his first full length album, from which, the title track, “Yellow Woods”, comes off as a hypnotic, powerful ballad that’s supported by beautiful pads in the background, clean, emotive vocals nad deep, layered harmonies. There’s plenty of life and articulation in the mix, hitting power points and preserving the delicate energy balance of this track with much aplomb. The synths peppered throughout the track make for a relaxing experience, while the song moves in a groove that’s an instant charmer. Take a listen to the track here!
James Keen - “Crossover”
London-based songwriter James Keen blends pop, rock, R&B, and folk with evocative storytelling, drawing on diverse cultural influences and almost two decades of musical exploration, culminating in his latest track, “Crossover” — a warm ballad with acoustic guitars and a driving rhythm to keep things uptempo from start to finish, the percussion choices in this track play beautifully with James’ soulful singing and the melodies presented by the guitars. The basses keep things groovy and full of life, while the subtle brasses infuse the mix with charm and warmth. All in all, a winner of a track, this! Check the song out here:
Linda Sussman - “Remember Dorothy”
Linda Sussman is a NY-based, award-winning alt-folk and blues artist known for her heartfelt vocals, strong guitar work — and on her latest single, “Remember Dorothy”, she skilfully blends a sound of alternative ballad writing, tinging it with her timeless blues — while her strong, powerful vocals present the lyrics in a fashion very eloquent and direct. The song serves as a reminder of the courage that exists in every one of us. Linda hopes this song resonates with anyone who feels they have sat too long on the sidelines and is about coming about from the shadows. Her raw singing still retains just the right amount of polish through the song as the finger-picked slide guitar gently keeps pulse to the music. All in all, a winner! Take a listen to the track here!
Josh Jensen - “Birdhouse”
Josh Jensen, a Washington-based singer-songwriter, blends his roots in classic country with influences from pop-punk, grunge, and folk, crafting a sound that’s an amalgamation of his various inspirations — and on his latest single, “Birdhouse”, he presents an uptempo pop ballad that, with its gentle, easygoing nature, charms its way to the repeat button in a flash. The basses keep the track groovy, while the banjos and acoustic guitars pick together gentle melodic lines that lend a charm to the song. The vocals are worth a note, too, with the optimistic, happy singing bringing this track full circle. Take a listen to the track here!
Tessa Lee - “Mountains”
Tessa Lee is a songwriter known for her warm, melodic indie pop infused with bluesy folk roots and introspective lyrics, shining through on her latest single, “Mountains” — when it comes to charisma, this track hits high numbers from the very start, with vocals that groove and engage the listener with much ease. Tessa’s vocals are the star of the show here, with her humorous, expressive singing that’s an instant show-winner. The gentle guitars keep the sound rich and lush, with the drumming bringing things together — the groovy chops and the guitar solo in the middle of the song just adding to the magic already woven. All in all, a winner! Take a listen to the track here:
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