In The Spotlight

AUGUSTA – “Little Birds”

Hailing from Toronto, this Canadian 7-piece alternative rock band was formed in 2022. Led by Joe Dent (formerly of A Fellow Ship), August Jones (touring member of The Reklaws) and Zach Stuckey (touring member of Dani Doucette), they’ve been described as “sparking ferocious dance parties wherever they go”. They’ve performed at Kingston’s YGK Craft Beer Fest and Toronto’s Lee’s Palace.

The titular birds maybe little, but the full-bodied, colossal instrumentation on their debut single is anything but. Though having an indie-rock foundation, this track is so much more. Adding an insatiable booming bass and some furious horns gives it an extra layer of sheer funkiness. And with the captivating, slightly distorted, vocals, this powerful jam takes your ears on an unexpected sonic trip.

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In The Spotlight

Nnoa – “On & On”

Born as Christina Kerchner in Vienna, this Austrian singer and songwriter has been playing piano since childhood, writing songs since she was 16 and been singing all of her life. She traveled the world as part of the bands DelaDap and the Bruckner Big Band. Inspired by Amber Mark, Billie Eilish and Doja Cat, she launched her solo project and debuted her soul-pop sound on her single “Lazy” in 2021.

Creating a slightly different kind of love song, in which she sings about the love she has for her piano, her new single is a deliciously light and soulful bop. With a bouncy beat, a touch of warm brass and, of course, the crisp piano center stage, it’s a retro-dipped blend of 90s R&B and rich soul. And with her captivating vocal skills stroking your eardrums, this extraordinary homage sounds stunning.

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In The Spotlight

Hannah Rosa – “Whiplash”

Hailing from Brisbane, this award-winning Australian singer and songwriter has been impressing audiences with goosebump-worthy performances for the past 9 years. She has opened for artists such as Mosquito Coast and Kyle Lionhart and performed at festivals like Brisbane Festival and Teneriffe Festival. Inspired by Lorde, Kimbra and Julia Stone, she debuted with “Never Got Over You” in 2013.

Dealing with the endless ‘what ifs’ which bulldoze your mind all day after a breakup, her new single is an intricate, emotion-laden slice of indie-pop goodness. Mainly driven by an imposing ascending percussion, guiding your ears through her sentimental soundscape, it’s the acoustic piano and her hypnotic, velveteen vocal skills that turns this rich, impressive tune into an extraordinary sonic gem.

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In The Spotlight

Zach Day – “If It Kills Me”

Having grown up in the backwoods of Kentucky, this folk-pop singer/songwriter regularly skipped school to teach himself to play guitar. In 2020 he appeared in season 18 of The Voice, as part of John Legend’s team and reached the battles. His technical, soul-bearing voice has impressed the likes of Meghan Trainor and Brandi Carlile, while icons such as Carole King reposted his covers to their socials.

Lyrically telling a relatable story about the struggle to let go of a relationship, his debut single is doused in classic soulful vibes. Using rich, acoustic instruments, it’s the insatiable rhythm and crisp keys that create a vintage 50s feel, while a contemporary production anchors it firmly in the here-and-now. And with his exhilarating, powerhouse vocals, this jam is a retro-dipped, soul-filled experience.

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In The Spotlight

Kim Tibbs – “Walk To The Light”

Having accumulated over 30 years of musical experience, this multi-talented singer, songwriter, organist, producer and even fashion designer is a force to be reckoned with. She’s worked with Billy Ray Cyrus, shared the stage with Denise LaSalle and toured with Percy Sledge to name but a few. Inspired by Al Green and Aretha Franklin she debuted her own soul sound on her single “Completely…” in 2016.

Recorded on Al Green’s original microphone for an authentic 70s soul sound, her new single is about achieving personal empowerment. Taken from her album “The Science Of Completion, Vol.1”, the song starts with a retro rhythm and classic violins and unfolds with her warm Hammond organ and wah wah guitars. And with her powerful, soul-dripping vocals, this is a musical treat.

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In The Spotlight

Jake Whiskin – “Long Way Home”

Born in Leeds, this British singer and songwriter started playing Sunday League football as a child, but traded it in for going through his dad’s record collection. He taught himself how to play guitar and began writing relatable, melancholic songs. Inspired by the Smashing Pumpkins and Nirvana, as well as the Americana of Neil Young and Tom Petty, he released his debut single “Dark Days” in 2019.

Trying to find the balance between extremes such as religion on the one hand and smoking too much weed on the other, his new single is a lyrical rollercoaster. Taken from his self-titled debut album, expected on November 4th, it’s the singing electric guitar and folky rhythm that effortlessly blends a 70s sound with modern production. And with his shimmering vocals, this tune feels like home.

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