July 27th, 2012 by Julija
pop // soul 
Miriam Bryant’s debut single “Finders, Keepers” (2012) might label her as a potential Sweden’s answer to the British soul invasion. However, while vocal comparisons to the critically acclaimed Adele are definitely due, Miriam’s songwriting is more in line with Paloma Faith’s jazz glamour with an added touch of Amanda Jenssen‘s sing-along soul-pop. “Finders, Keepers” is a truly emotive ballad that evolves around dramatic piano and strings, and Miriam’s powerful vocals. She’s one songstress I’ll be keeping a keen eye on in the future.
Strong, emotive songwriting.
Miriam Bryant- Finders, Keepers
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July 5th, 2012 by Julija
french vocal // soft soul 
Quebec native Amylie first caught our attention (and stole our hearts) with her debut album Jusqu’aux Oreilles back in 2008. Four years later, Amylie is back with a new album, Le Royaume (2012), and its first single “Les Filles“. Le Royaume is a colourful mix of retro pop and soul, soulful vocal harmonies and truly refreshing melodies. The new album ranges from delicate to playful uptempo melodies with ocasional electro touches, bringing to mind Feist, Jessica Fichot and the Parisian avant-pop of Camille. As of now, I’m certain Amylie’s Le Royaume will end up among my most listened albums of the summer.
Strong, irresistible melodies.
Amylie – Les Filles
Amylie – Tais Ta Tête
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June 1st, 2012 by Kyle
electronic // downtempo
Supple beats marry shimmering coral chords in seaside bliss amid warming, caressing petals of sky to rendezvous your senses and massage on contact. Transposed emotions from Melbourne form piano flute cloudscapes, dazzling luminous sunsets, and curious blips washed in reverb flowing uptempo or downbeat. Jack Vanzet’s Voyages blossom into euphoric rewards for your ears, and his Unfinished Business is a 19-minute dopamine symphony of calming awe.
Dreamy audio estuary.
Thrupence – Synchronous Bloom
Thrupence – Folds
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May 7th, 2012 by Sjoerd
Jazz // Pop
An intriguing personality shows in the words and music from Bev Lee Harling. Songs about expectations, modern life & love are matched by a diverse production which is sometimes tongue in cheek, but always spot on in presenting the song eloquently. Don’t be fooled by the sweetness of her voice; she conceals a dark twist and wickedness underneath her cute appearance. “Private Life of a Puppet” sees a fine balance between innocent & dark, while “Barefoot in Your Kitchen” has you guessing whether it is a smart analogy or just a loving tribute.
Jazz pop with an intriguing twist.
Bev Lee Harling – Private Life of a Puppet (acoustic)
Bev Lee Harling – Barefoot in Your Kitchen
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April 29th, 2012 by Julija
dream-folk // scottish singer-songwriter 
Rachel Sermanni’s EP Black Currents (2012) may only offer 4 tracks, but it certainly earns the Scottish songstress a spot among the most promising talents of the year. Rachel’s ethereal, some times husky Sarah Blasko-like vocals ride the delicate guitar, breezy strings and subtle piano arrangements of her debut EP. The lead track “The Fog” showcases Rachel’s rich vocal range from delicate to haunting dark tones. Don’t let this gem slip under your radar.
Heartfelt, refreshing debut.
Rachel Sermanni – The Fog
Rachel Sermanni – Breathe Easy
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