In The Spotlight

James McCarthy – “Let Me Go”

Based in Boston, this singer and songwriter starting writing music after graduating from UMass Amherst in 2014. While he was there he met producer and drummer Evan Hill and together they formed a group with three other musicians, namely Billy Thompson, Tony Irons and Jarrod Stein. They started playing shows at Boston venues like Hard Rock CafĂ© and Middle East Downstairs. Inspired by John Mayer, Kacey Musgraves and Hozier, he debuted with his EP “Inside Sunrise” in 2016.

Telling the relatable story about the difficulty letting go after a relationship comes to an end, his new single deals with the feeling of guilt thinking you didn’t do enough to save it. Taken from his 2024 debut album “Love Then Heartbreak”, the soft, emotive melody wraps around an intricate piano. Joined by a mellow percussion and smooth electric guitars, it’s his mesmerizing silken vocals, filled with tender sentiment, that fuses the poignant lyrics with sensitive instrumentals.

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Music History

Thelma Houston – “Don’t Leave Me This Way”

From her album “Any Way You Like It” (1975):

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New Music

Jalen Ngonda – “Illusions”

Serving a generous slice of delicious classic soul, this is the new single by soulster Jalen Ngonda:

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In The Spotlight

Mia Dyson – “Dare”

Born in Daylesford and raised in Torquay, Victoria, this Australian singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist grew up listening to the blues and roots music her parents played. Since starting her career she’s toured extensively, playing various festivals, such as the Winnipeg Folk Festival and Edinburgh Festival, as well as opening for Eric Clapton and Stevie Nicks. Inspired by Bonnie Raitt, Neil Young and Ry Cooder, she debuted her raw blues-rock sound on her album “Cold Water” in 2003.

Returning six years after her most recent release with a deeply personal album, chronicling the journey she’s been on after a heart arrhythmia caused a near-death experience, her new single shows a genuine vulnerability. Written before the experience occurred, the lyrics seemed to be prophetic. Taken from the album “Tender Heart”, it’s the mellow vibe from the electric guitar, driving beat and the slight grit of her imposing vocals that make this bluesy tune sound extraordinary.

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Music History

Duke Special – “Sweet Sweet Kisses”

From his album “I Never Thought This Day Would Come” (2009):

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New Music

Kiesza – “Dancing And Crying”

From her upcoming EP “Dancing And Crying Vol.1”, to be released on 24 May 2024:

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