This week’s edition of LITM Singer-Songwriter Picks features soulful music from Mark Montijo, Roy Pitluk, Mark Howard, Ian Roland and Sophia St. Helen.
Mark Montijo - If I Get To Heaven
Mark Montijo is out with his latest album “If I Get To Heaven” and the title track is the second song of the album. “If I Get To Heaven” is a gentle folk melody that slowly unfolds. As it begins, a heavenly guitar progression lays the backing for the vocals. When the vocals start, Mark’s voice glides through as if it’s on a bed of roses. Gradually, different layers are added to the song like the piano notes, the slide guitar and the heavenly soundscape. Mark explores themes of the afterlife, with an optimistic tone in the song.
Roy Pitluk - My Man
Roy Pitluk is out with his latest single “My Man”, a blissful romantic melody which is an ode to love. Like spoken poetry, the lyrics of this song narrates a tale of a wonderful relationship between two people. Roy uses his love and his lover as a muse for his art, weaving stories of their romance. The bluesy melody paints a melancholic soundscape, with vibrant guitar strokes and a blunt tone. The minimalistic canvas paves way for Roy’s dusky vocals, travelling through the chord progression. There’s something remarkably pure and divine in Roy’s writing as he radiates love for his significant other and expresses it through subtle poetry and elegant music.
Mark Howard - My Girl is on Fire
Philip Island-based alt indie musician Mark Howard is out with his latest single “My Girl is on Fire”. It’s a soft alternative rock ballad laden with intriguing guitar lines and a heavenly aura, dedicated to the artist’ wife. In fact, the song celebrates womanhood and the resilience of the female gender, working hard to keep the world spinning. The song maintains a calm soundscape with shimmering guitar licks and a steady beat on which Mark’s elegant voice carries the melody. A combination of alternative rock, blues and a hint of folk, “My Girl is on Fire” is a soothing melody written as a tribute to women all over the world but foremost as a love song to Mark’s wife.
Ian Roland - The Beacon
Ian Roland’s "The Beacon" is a beautiful tribute to nature, inspired by the Adonis Blue Butterfly and the South Downs National Park. The song blends traditional folk with contemporary elements, featuring Roland’s emotive vocals, particularly in the soaring chorus. The lush arrangement includes Mishkin Fitzgerald’s piano, Simon Yapp’s violin, and a solid rhythm section, creating a soothing yet intricate sound. Produced by Jake Skinner and mastered by Bob Macciochi, the track is both timeless and elegant. At its core, "The Beacon" is a heartfelt plea to preserve the natural world, with Roland’s message of environmental preservation resonating deeply through the music.
Sophia St. Helen - Time Has Changed Me
Sophia St. Helen’s "Time Has Changed Me" is a deeply emotive folk rock track that reflects on personal growth and the passage of time. Blending Americana influences with her soulful style, St. Helen’s smooth vocals and introspective lyrics create a warm, intimate atmosphere. The song explores themes of change and letting go, drawing comparisons to classic artists like Fleetwood Mac and Neil Young, while resonating with modern folk acts like Father John Misty. With its tender guitar-driven arrangement, "Time Has Changed Me" highlights St. Helen’s evolving songwriting and her ability to capture life’s impermanence. This track solidifies her place as an exciting artist to watch in the years ahead.
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