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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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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In The Spotlight

Stefan Mahendra – “Keep On Movin'”

Raised in South-East London and with Sri Lankan and German roots, this singer, songwriter and musician blends the influence from his varied cultural heritage with the gospel music he discovered in church. Since then he’s toured the world opening for artists like Sting, Melanie C and Olly Murs. In 2019 he reached the quarter finals on The Voice UK. Inspired by Donny Hathaway, Stevie Wonder and John Legend, he debuted his soulful R&B sound on his single “Lovin’ You Is Easy” in 2020.

Singing about celebrating the glory of life itself and reminding the listeners to grab whatever life throws at you with both hands, his new single tries to open your eyes to the good change can bring. Wrapped in an intricate melodic blend of a funky rhythm, warm bass line and crisp, jazzy keys, it’s his velveteen vocals and smooth harmonies that gently stroke your ears. And with the added easy-going horns, this is a soul-infused sonic potpourri of infectious optimism and a silken sound.

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In The Spotlight

MAGNETS – “Speak”

Based in Melbourne/Naarm, Australian singer and songwriter Siobhan McGinnity is a multi-disciplinary artist and advocate. She was trained as a pianist from the age of 7 and grew up moving from town to town. Her musical passion started to bloom after settling in Melbourne. Disabled from MĂ©nière’s disease and Fibromyalgia, she advocates for feminism, hearing disabilities and ecology. Inspired by the dulcet tones of Enya and the rawness of Hole, she released her debut “Fight” in 2016.

Fueled by the climate crisis and the effect fast fashion has on the environment in particular, her new single is actually a call to arms for listeners to take a stand and make the right choices for the planet. She balances the inspirational lyrics with a sparkling late 80s/early 90s pop melody. With a cheery, sun-filled vibe from the sprightly guitars and playful, retro-dipped rhythm, it’s her glistening and heartfelt vocals that add a mesmerizing layer to this authentic and magical delight.

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In The Spotlight

Rosa Mack – “Love You Always”

Based in Brisbane, this Australian powerhouse vocalist and songwriter has been delivering her old-school funk, soul and blues blend since 2020. Backed by a seven-piece blues collective, she’s been captivating audiences wherever they perform. They’ve played local venues, as well as various South-East Queensland festivals and the Woodford Folk Festival. Inspired by Amy Winehouse, Brittany Howard and Nina Simone, she debuted her invigorating retro sound on “When I’m Alone” in 2023.

Capturing the human urge to flee in fearful situations, instead of embracing the fleeting nature of life and chasing a life without regret, her new single is an introspective journey. Written by the band’s guitarist James Pryce-Davies, the song starts with a funky rhythm and a sparkling pop guitar. Enriched with soulful vibes from the horns and futuristic synths, the track blends a plethora of elements. And with her velvety vocals, this mellow groove is filled with lush neo-soul magic.

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In The Spotlight

Duke Keats – “Heavy Heartbreak”

Born and raised in Coventry, this British singer and songwriter grew up in a musical household where he was always surrounded by the varying tastes of his parents, ranging from prog rock to R&B and pop. Since the start of his career he’s supported acts like Her’s and Laetitia Sadier of Stereolab, as well as perform at Godiva Festival and with Sofar Sounds. Inspired by legendary artists such as David Bowie, Prince and Jimi Hendrix, he released his debut single “When You Smile” in 2019.

Both fittingly and ironically released on Valentines Day, his new single focuses on the themes of love and heartbreak. Taken from his upcoming EP “Bornstar”, expected later in the year, this shimmering track is an accomplished amalgam of various musical elements, from rock to pop and electronic to funk. Following a bouncy beat and warm bass plucks, glistening vintage synths fill the bright melody. And with his dreamy vocals, this rich, retro-dipped tune envelops your soul.

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