In The Spotlight

Abbie Callahan – “Simon Says”

Born in Iowa City, this singer and songwriter started singing aged 10 when she performed in her elementary school talent show and never looked back. Although she did take guitar lessons, she’s never had vocal training. She entered The Voice in 2017, but was eliminated after her audition. In 2019 she auditioned for American Idol, earning herself a golden ticket to Hollywood Week. Inspired by Linda Ronstadt, Sierra Ferrell and Leon Bridges, she debuted with “Where I’ve Been” in 2022.

Framing heartbreak as a long game of Simon Says, her new single takes a sad diary entry and elevates it with sprightly country-folk vibes that are slightly enriched with touch of pop. Building up the melody around a jaunty banjo, the song ascends with a driving rhythm and a perky slide guitar. Taking her relatable lyrics and immersing them in a playful tune, forges an irresistible brew. And with her honest, rootsy vocals, this slice of spellbinding Americana is filled with authentic warmth.

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In The Spotlight

Car287 – “Ain’t Nothin’ Now”

Formed in a Winnipeg basement in 2014, this Canadian rock band started as a trio consisting of Jay Yarmey, Travis Wog and Terry Ferguson. They were joined in 2023 by drummer Ryan Olenick. Blending the spirit of 70s rock and the indie rock vibes of the 00s, they created their own sound. Since then they’ve played various venues and festivals such as Dauphin Countryfest and the Norseman Festival. Inspired by The Killers and The Tragically Hip, they debuted with their self-titled EP in 2022.

Deeply dipped in nostalgia for the days of yore, their new single combines heartfelt lyrics with a virulent retro rock edge. Taken from their recently released album “Looking Through The Lens”, it’s the rip-roaring electric guitars that instantly draw us in. Through the 80s-tinged guitar riffs and electrifying percussion they forge an vigorous rawness to the melody. And with energetic vocals dancing around the rousing hooks, this blistering groove is a retrospective tour de force.

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In The Spotlight

Melissa Bonny – “Snow On Mars”

Born in Montreux and based in Denmark, this Swiss singer/songwriter has been on the music scene since 2012. Known for being a heavy metal singer, she started her career with the band Evenmore, followed by Rage Of Light. In 2018 she formed Ad Infinitum and in 2021 she co-founded The Dark Side Of The Moon. Along with many collaborations, she shared the stage with Alice Cooper in 2020. Inspired by Kamelot, Nightwish and Demi Lovato, she debuted solo with “Gravitate” in 2024.

Recognising a world in decline and evoking a desire to escape its destiny, her new single dreams of finding a hideaway in the infinity of the universe. Taken from her upcoming album “Cherry Red Apocalypse”, expected on January 23, 2026, the song is a power ballad which blends organic instrumentation with reflective lyrics. Starting in an ethereal dream world, the melody erupts with a cinematic sonic flair. And with her powerful vocals, this anthemic tune is a mesmerizing treasure.

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In The Spotlight

Yellow Days – “Sharon”

Born in Manchester as George van den Broek, this British singer and songwriter’s musical journey began after receiving his first guitar for Christmas at the age of 11. As a teen he built a studio in a garden shed and started recording original songs, creating his own fusion of funk, soul and jazz. He’s excited audiences at various festivals such as Mad Cool Festival and Coachella. Inspired by Ray Charles, Mac DeMarco and Curtis Mayfield, he debuted with his EP “Harmless Melodies” in 2016.

Conjuring up the late-night conversations in a smoky bar, confiding in a female friend topics of self-destructive tendencies and friendship, his new single shines a light on helping a friend through a tough time. Taken from his upcoming album “Rock And A Hard Place”, expected on February 13, 2026, the song instantly takes hold with a brass-heavy soul-funk vibe. With a peppy rhythm, frisky keys and the raw passion of his vocals, this breezy groove sounds as nostalgic as it does fresh.

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In The Spotlight

Jaclyn Reinhart – “Hero Call”

Hailing from Saint John, New Brunswick, this Canadian singer and songwriter has lived a turbulent life. She had to give up music for many years due to an abusive relationship, co-dependant friendships and self-sabotage. In 2021 she returned to the music scene with her single “Rearview”. She’s played varied festivals such as Living Roots, Rising Tide and Larlee Creek Hullabaloo. Inspired by artists like Grace Potter, Tom Petty and Sheryl Crow, she debuted with “Favorite Mistakes” in 2011.

Celebrating taking chances, embracing risk and stepping into your own power, her new single inspires us to choose how we want to play the hand we’re dealt. Taken from her upcoming album “Heroes”, expected in 2026, this raw melody blends roots-rock with a touch of Americana. With steady drums and glowing guitars forging an inviting warmth, the tune ascends with an infectious rock passion. And with her sincere vocals, this anthemic groove is brimming with resilience and courage.

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In The Spotlight

Taylor Williams – “Dreaming”

Based in Greensboro, NC, this soulful singer and songwriter first got enamoured with making music thanks to Guitar Hero 3 he played with his brother. Although he earned a business degree at UNCG, he kept playing guitar for various bands and is also proficient on organ and vibraphone. He first cut his teeth on the music scene with the garage-funk collective Black Haüs. Inspired by artists such as Minnie Riperton, Isaac Hayes and Marvin Gaye, he just debuted solo on Colemine Records.

Smooth as sonic silk and dipped in late 60s/early 70s buttery soul, his debut single is a breezy old-school ballad. Telling a tale of dreaming about a lost love, hoping she might return, the song is a wistful escape into wishful thinking. Instantly enchanting with a mellow percussion and velvety guitars, it’s the delicate sleekness of the melody that feels comforting. And with his hypnotic falsetto touching your heart, this nostalgic smooth groove helps you to get lost in a satiny dreamworld.

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