First of all, thanks to all of you for supporting and sharing the first Stereo Spotlight feature last month. Remember, this is a place to promote and support music from exciting new artists that deserve more recognition. If you or someone you know fits this bill, you can recommend a song to be featured in a future article, by clicking the button at the top of the page. You can also listen to/follow the playlist of all the tracks on Spotify by using the playlist link on the right. Thanks for all your requests this month, here a few of my faves!
Joe Hurst – Don’t Go
Aged just 16, Carlisle musician and multi-instrumentalist Joe Hurst released his latest track Don’t Go last month. Playing guitar, ukulele, bass, mandolin AND keys, Joe cites legends such as Bob Dylan and Lou Reed as inspirations, showing that he, as he should, is dreaming big. The vibe of Don’t Go, a song all about needing to keep someone close, definitely in-keeps with this style, with guitars and drums driving the song throughout. In the coming months, Joe is due back in the studio to record more music – I for one will be keeping an ear out for this exciting new talent.
AFREINE – Clare St.
Up next is new artist AFREINE, who is bursting onto the scene with her beautiful debut single Clare St. A moving and powerful song in honour of all those who suffer and have survived domestic abuse, AFREINE shows a talent of creating important and captivating lyrics, all the while allowing the raw and honest vocals to drive the song forward. Inspired by a wide range of artists, from Raleigh Ritchie to Etta James, AFREINE is currently working on her next single, but says it will have a different sound to Clare St. “That’s the joy of music – there are no rules!” she told Steve’s Stereo. “I’m just really enjoying working with different writers and producers to create work that’s influenced from lots of different but great minds!”
Hokum – Blind Searcher
Reading-based rock band Hokum dropped their first single in 2019, but this month they returned with the follow-up Blind Searcher. Inspired by greats such as Pink Floyd and Black Sabbath as well as the likes of Arctic Monkeys and an early Tame Impala, Hokum find a clear niche in their sound, combining classic rock n roll with post-modern grooves and psychedelic elements. Blind Searcher addresses themes of loss, loneliness and longing, something I’m sure we can all relate to in these times. It’s a well-produced track from a band with four great musicians, and Blind Searcher definitely leaves them as one to watch. I can’t wait to hear what they do next!
Beth George – Haywire
Finally, London-based artist Beth George makes a big impact with her new track Haywire. A song which fuses a catchy hook with a fresh electronic beat, Beth certainly shows huge promise and potential for big success with this original sound. This track comes from an upcoming LP Mindfields which Beth has been slowly teasing, so if you like this, be sure to presave the album and check out the rest on Spotify now!
Be sure to check back next month for the next edition of Stereo Spotlight. And don't forget to send your requests, using the 'Recommend a song' button at the top of the page! Thanks to everyone for your support so far and I hope you have all enjoyed the music!
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