As the coronavirus pandemic continued this month in the UK and all over the world, this month’s photo was something I stumbled upon near where I live, giving thanks for all the NHS and key workers. This month’s lyric comes from my all-time favourite pop queen Avril Lavigne, from a B-side track Take It released in 2004. I can’t believe it’s taken until April for me to finally confess my love/obsession with Avril, but ‘Shocking headline surpise’ seemed like the appropriate caption as we continue to delve further into uncertainty and confusion in these unprecedented times.
Continue scrolling to see what else I’ve been loving this month.
Grace Davies – Addicted To Blue
I haven’t watched X Factor properly in many years, but we all see the odd audition now and then on social media, and this was how I discovered Grace Davies, who was in the contest in 2017, finishing second. It was only recently, when I remembered how much I loved the tone of her voice and the emotion in her performances, that I stumbled upon her again, almost by accident, but by no mistake. Davies is slowly releasing new material in preparation for an EP coming soon, and Addicted To Blue is one of my faves this month. While the song talks almost of masochism, revelling in the struggles of a relationship, there’s something very endearing and honest about Davies’ lyrics, and her distinct vocal quality all go together to leave me very excited for the upcoming EP.
Sam Fender – Saturday
One of my favourite upcoming new artists last year was without a doubt British singer-songwriter Sam Fender, whose debut LP Hypersonic Missiles went to the top of the UK charts in September 2019. I have been a huge fan of the album ever since, and finally got round to picking up the vinyl this month. As a result, Saturday has been on repeat in April and has become a new favourite from the album. It’s all about the stresses of weekday life, and praying for the weekend when one can let off some steam, all told through Fender’s conversely poetic yet down to earth lyrics and alternative sound.
Larkins – TV Dream
Up next with the anthemic indie pop tune TV Dream is Manchester band Larkins. This is a song you need to play loud, as the heavy guitar infused with a synthpop element, all combined with frontman Josh Noble’s unique vocals make this the perfect song to rock out to in lockdown. Released last year, you can be sure to hear plenty more from this up and coming band in the near future.
Yoste – You Can’t Fix Me
I’ve been a huge fan of Australian artist Yoste since he first came onto the scene in 2016 and I have been undoubtedly enjoying his new releases this year. So much so in fact, he has not one but TWO tracks in my April playlist, both from his upcoming EP A Few Brief Moments. Yoste beautifully blends ambient and chill vibes in his music, and ties it all together with his luscious silky voice. And if you listen to the lyrics, you’ll see there’s a real narrative too. Thank you Yoste for ticking lots of my boxes and providing some lovely new tracks for us this year.
Of Monsters and Men – Wild Roses
You’ll most likely know Icelandic group Of Monsters and Men from their hit single Little Talks released at the end of 2011. I have followed them on-and-off ever since but was late to the party in listening to their newest album FEVER DREAM which came out last year. Better late than never though, as Wild Roses is my final add in this month’s playlist. The group have matured and developed and really found their lane since their debut release, while still keeping their quintessential sound and always mystical, magical lyrics.
*Special Mention – LARWOOD & KOH*
Taking a slight detour from the usual alternative route, we arrive at up and coming rap/hip hop duo LARWOOD & KOH with their debut song Wrong. I’ll be the first to admit that rap music isn’t always my cup of tea, but LARWOOD & KOH show a talent as a new act that is ridiculous to deny and impossible not be impressed by. The very speed at which he can hit every word with such precision, all while providing a very interesting and informed world view, leaves you wanting to play it again and again to try and catch every word. The duo will be releasing their first EP later this year, so be sure to keep an eye out! (photo Harry Elletson)
Head to the top of page to listen to the playlist in full and follow on Spotify!
