Midnight Sky – Hearts are Wild

Hearts Are Wild is a raw, authentic song filled with vulnerability. It begins with an infectious guitar riff, which is backed by percussion and a fiddle, which instantly gives the song a country feel.

The opening lines immediately set the scene with vivid, cinematic imagery. “Ribbons of pavement and interstate signs, big semi-trucks and little white lines.”

It’s the language of the open road, where distance and longing intertwine. The contrast between “You’re in the east, I’m in the west” captures that ache of separation, while “The highway puts our love to the test” turns the road itself into a symbol of both connection and challenge. It’s a simple, but powerful metaphor for love stretched across miles, heartfelt, honest, and rooted in the kind of storytelling that defines great country songwriting. 

“Hearts Are Wild is a song you’d blast with the windows down on a long drive! Catchy, upbeat, and full of energy, with just enough heart to make you feel it too.”

This country-rock gem strikes the perfect balance between energy and emotion. With driving guitars, a steady beat, and a melody that hooks you from the start, it’s an upbeat song that still carries a touch of heartache. The lyrics tell the story of longing for someone who’s far away, but instead of sinking into sadness, the music lifts the mood, turning that yearning into something hopeful and alive. The mix of twangy country warmth and rock-and-roll edge gives it a sound that feels both timeless and fresh. It’s the kind of track you can dance to with a smile, even while it tugs gently at your heartstrings.

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Words by Sian Evans.

The post Midnight Sky Share ‘Hearts Are Wild’ From New Album appeared first on Right Chord Music Blog.

Marc Daniels – Good Old Days

Based in Spokane, Washington, Marc Daniels is a seasoned singer-songwriter who spent years fronting bands throughout the Pacific Northwest. Before launching his solo career in 2015, he toured nationally and played major venues along the West Coast, building a solid reputation in the country-rock scene.

Since then, Marc Daniels has steadily built on his success, beginning with the release of his 2016 debut album The Starting Line. The album featured standout tracks like Redheads and Summer Song, both of which racked up strong streaming numbers and earned awards at film festivals in Texas, Nevada, California, and Florida. His music has also reached wider audiences through placements in film and television, including Roswell, New Mexico, and Road Hard.

As its title implies, Marc Daniels’ latest single Good Old Days reflects on the shared experiences that define our path from adolescence to adulthood. The track encourages listeners to embrace the fleeting nature of youth, enjoy those formative years to the fullest, and cherish the memories that ultimately help shape who we become.

While the theme of Good Old Days leans into nostalgia, the instrumentation tells a different story. Rather than feeling melancholic, the track is driven by an upbeat melody, warm piano lines, energetic guitar work, and soaring backing vocals, all led by Marc Daniels’ smooth Southern drawl, bringing a bright and spirited energy to the song.

“Good Old Days stands out as a strong country track, rich in emotion and grounded in well-crafted, heartfelt instrumentation.”

With an impressive track record and even more on the horizon, Marc Daniels is set for a promising 2025. Now, fans can eagerly anticipate what he will release next.

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Words Javier Rodriguez

The post Marc Daniels Reflects On The ‘Good Old Days’ appeared first on Right Chord Music Blog.

wAHb – Early Virgins EP

wAHb is a post-Americana project out of Wyoming. Caleb Bristol began this project back in 2019, exploring music in a way that incorporates everyday life. 

The opening guitar riff is beautiful, melodic and winding; it is reminiscent of some of the best 2000s folk-pop. ‘King of Hearts’ is littered with majestic songwriting and raw vocal beauty. The chorus is thoughtful in both presence and feel, allowing for a true journey of the mind. The song flows beautifully, and the end is a cry for help as it leaves all listeners wanting more.

Luckily, ‘Shorties for the Camel’ maintains the mystic atmosphere and brings us deeper into our own web of pensiveness. More poetic lyrics are presented in the form of shapeless vocals. It is stark throughout that this EP has been made with purpose and for the love of the craft. The pulsing guitar builds in the second chorus, and the vocals maintain raspy nuances but become increasingly desperate. The gloomy, powerful sounds encapsulate the listener. 

A western apocalyptic feel grips hold of us on ‘Dawn’. The simple, sliding guitar is built upon with sounds that emit the essence of peace and adventure. The ending is beyond peaceful and truly transcendent. 

The final track is my personal favourite on the EP for many reasons. The build-up of vocal silence and instrumental mastery sets up the song perfectly. The lyrics seem to meld with the instrumental backing perfectly as if there was no other way this song could be written.  The ending of the track is real and edgy in the true meaning of the word. It leaves us wondering and wanting more. 

This EP was made with divine purpose, and I take my hat off to its creator. There should always be a place for art as pure as this in the world. 

“Early Virgins is a four-song masterpiece that anyone with a spare sixteen minutes should feel obligated to listen to, a real work of art.”

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Words by Thomas Pressley Hitchcock

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Dirt Road Opera – Clay Pigeons

Dirt Road Opera is an American-based band in Kelowna, BC. Their new single pays homage to Blaze Foley with a sparkling rendition of ‘Clay Pigeons’. Dirt Road Opera have an established catalogue of their own, with the shining star being their 2020 album ‘Nowheresville’. 

The new single provides a more modern feel to the classic track ‘Clay Pigeons’. The song brings to light all their best features, with roots in folk and country but with a modern rock flair and more than a splash of roots and soul.   

The opening vocals are soft but raspy, and the blend of female and male voices brings a homely feel. The lively folk instruments intertwine with beautiful voices to bring a new life to the timeless chorus of ‘Clay Pigeons’.  All over the song, musical excellence is shown through inventive craftsmanship and pure talent. 

Dirt Road Opera pay homage in all the best ways as they maintain the timeliness nature of the original whilst adding modern-classic details, resulting in a gorgeous track. 

‘Dirt Road Opera cover ‘Clay Pigeons’ with such class that it becomes a brand-new song.’ 

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Words by Thomas Pressley Hitchcock

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Luke O’Hanlon – The River Only Flows One Way 

Luke O’Hanlon is an intelligent singer/songwriter who knows the world and its breaking point. A gifted lyricist, the musician has crafted an album which stirs the emotions, and it has the power to rally thoughts and feelings. From the beginning of his record, The River Only Flows One Way, he gifts us moments when he feels the constraints of creaking emotions. 

Lyrically, we’re taken on a journey of self-reflection. Through the words, O’Hanlon tells us love may have shattered, and that the dust has grown over reality. He’s so adept that he’s unique in his output too, ripping up the rulebook as he sings and bellows about lovers and thinkers. 

Love plays a decisive part in this project, as O’Hanlon has delivered a love story full of challenge. The moments of tenderness do soothe, and the singer balances love and distrust so well while he plays his trusted acoustic guitar. 

The acoustic flair is well managed. O’Hanlon puts in the work, and he breaks conventions even when under the pressure of providing hooks and tones. Every moment is precious here, and like a small revolution, O’Hanlon knows he’s done well. 

‘’Luke O’Hanlon provides an expert acoustic album worthy of praise’’

Alcohol and Sodium provides the album’s opener. O’Hanlon has struck gold here, and the singer bellows with a gritty tone, while the lyrics ascend into a story of tattered love and destruction. He’s certainly on the warpath, guarding himself from the decaying optimism. 

Mannequin is a folk song of power and reflection. Expectations are explored, and O’Hanlon sings about a girl and the world. The smiles are too thin, and the dreams are fading into black. Though the song is gracious, it rightfully pushes the man with the guitar to his limits. The tones secure a brilliant sound here too.

Cold Black Stone is another well-versed track. O’Hanlon veers closer to the edge and conveys through his writings a heart trapped in stone. His voice here is like silk, and his acoustic flair opens a new layer of brilliance. 

Luke O’Hanlon provides an expert acoustic album worthy of praise. His work is commendable, and his talent endless. The River Only Flows One Way truly depicts struggle and love’s darker side, but the music transports and excites. 

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Words By Mark McConville

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Loud Tiger – Cactus

Loud Tiger is the solo project of Viktoria Siff, a talented singer and vocal coach who has built an impressive career collaborating with industry heavyweights like Alicia Keys, Macy Gray, and JJ Wilde. After honing her craft in London and Los Angeles, where she signed with Tommy Brown (Ariana Grande, Blackpink), Siff is now back in Denmark, ready to focus entirely on her musical journey.

In addition to her remarkable talent as an artist, Loud Tiger is also a seasoned vocal coach. Her expertise has led her to tour globally with 5 Seconds of Summer, work on X Factor Denmark, and coach artists across a wide range of genres, from heavy metal to classical. With such an extensive background, achievements come naturally to her. Loud Tiger won a JUNO Award for Rock Album of the Year with JJ Wilde and earned platinum status with hits like Luna Llena (Malu Trevejo) and Magnetic Moon (Tiffany Young), both of which topped iTunes charts in 24 countries.

Musically, Loud Tiger can be described as a fascinating blend of Americana, pop, and soul, delivering meaningful messages and deep emotional introspection, as exemplified in her latest release, Cactus. Like the plant that inspired the track, known for thriving in the harshest conditions, this song is all about rising through adversity, an anthem reminding us to never give up, no matter how tough things may seem.

Soaked in an irresistible rhythm that will stick in your head, Cactus radiates positivity with its warm guitar sections, feeling like a tender embrace, while Loud Tiger’s distinctive voice takes centre stage. All these elements shine even brighter in a chorus so bright and catchy, it’s sure to bring a big smile to your face.

“Cactus is a captivating anthem of perseverance and optimism.”

With this enticing hymn of hope, Loud Tiger has set the stage for something truly special, as Cactus is just the first single from her upcoming third album, set to be released later this year.

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Preston Lydotes – 5 to 9

Hailing from Boston, 22-year-old Preston Lydotes is a multi-talented artist whose work spans lyricism, production, engineering, and arranging. His music sits comfortably within the folk rock realm, shaped by influences like Coldplay, The Backseat Lovers, and Phoebe Bridgers, yet marked by a sound that’s distinctly his own.

Preston Lydotes began releasing music independently in 2022 and has since built an impressive catalogue of singles. He’s currently rolling out his second EP track by track, with songs like Wrong, Fallout, and The Critic in Me each earning thousands of streams. That momentum continues with the latest addition, 5 to 9.

With 5 to 9, Preston Lydotes takes a closer look at the exhausting cycle of working long hours after a full day on the job, only to do it all over again. His message is clear: forget that grind. Instead, he urges listeners to focus on what truly matters to them and chase what brings meaning. The track draws from Preston’s own experience juggling multiple jobs while studying a double major and minor at Berklee College of Music, grounding the song in real-life struggle and ambition.

5 to 9 checks all the boxes for a standout track, blending a catchy guitar hook, toe-tapping drums, and a dose of mesmerising saxophone. The arrangement calls to mind the energy of classic rock staples like Bruce Springsteen and Dave Matthews Band, while Preston Lydotes’ vintage-leaning vocal style ties everything together with ease.

“Rooted in honesty and easy to connect with, 5 to 9 is a rock-driven anthem that might have you nodding along nonstop or dancing until you drop.”

With a clear artistic vision and authentic storytelling, Preston Lydotes is establishing himself as a compelling force in the indie rock scene. Wherever he goes next, it’s worth keeping an ear on him.

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Words Javier Rodriguez

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Jo LaRue – Arizona

Jo LaRue, a talented songwriter and pianist from Dublin, Ireland, began her musical journey in her teenage years. She later graduated from BIMM Dublin with a degree in Commercial Modern Music, a program that refined her skills and enabled her to perform across diverse genres.

Jo LaRue takes inspiration from a diverse range of artists, including Ella Fitzgerald, Amy Winehouse, Stevie Nicks, and Lily Allen. Her music is a dynamic fusion of conversational lyrics, lively jazz, and retro-pop, all enriched by her unique sense of humour. She has also performed at some of Dublin’s most iconic venues, including The Sugar Club, Workman’s Cellar, and Fibbers, showcasing her talent on renowned stages.

Jo’s travels across the United States inspired her latest track, Arizona, which celebrates the stunning beauty of deserts, iconic landmarks like the Grand Canyon, and the picturesque scenery of various regions in California.

The song’s musical arrangement offers a laid-back yet deeply engaging experience, blending candid guitar melodies, subtle drum rhythms, and a playful bassline. At its heart is Jo’s remarkable voice, anchoring the composition. True to its jazzy roots, the guitar solos are both expressive and satisfying.

Arizona is a jazz-infused track that shines through its endearing songwriting and exceptional delivery, serving as a touching tribute to its inspiration.

Jo LaRue consistently delivers a blend of artistry and enjoyment, whether through her original music or the many collaborations she has been part of. Her exceptional talent and sincere songwriting firmly establish her as a standout presence within the expansive independent music landscape.

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Words Javier Rodriguez

The post Jo LaRue Captures The Essence of America On ‘Arizona’ appeared first on Right Chord Music Blog.

Sarah Jane Scouten – Transmutations EP

Live or acoustic records tend to be little more than a collection of an artist’s most recent tracks with either an older fan favourite or a cover song thrown in to help justify its price tag. Very rarely do artists give the same level of thought towards the songs they choose and the overall lyrical theming of a live record as they do with their studio releases. 

“Transmutations by Canada-born, Scotland-based revival artist, Sarah Jane Scouten quickly establishes the tone of the record with ‘Little Band of Gold’ in which she recalls a lost love, elaborating in vivid detail every aspect of the relationship that is now “just a picture in a frame, to hold onto when you get old.” Despite its lack of chorus and repeating piano melody, it’s a track that permeates feelings of loss and regret, which in turn, draws you in as you either sympathise for Scouten, as the song’s protagonist or at least empathise with her as you are recall your own tales of heartbreak.

The following track, “My Heart Ain’t Broken” is similar in the sense that it forgoes a typical song structure, in favour of a string of verses broken up with a pleasant, fingerpicked guitar riff. The track’s short length, near spoken word vocal delivery as well as Scouten’s inspired comparisons of a broken heart to a broken-down car evokes comparison to late country, folk legends such as Blaze Foley, Townes Vans Zant and most importantly, John Prine who, Scouten gives a firm salute of honour on the infectiously bouncy “Rose and Carnation.” 

It is evident throughout the EP that Scouten is a powerful songwriter, who can draw from her experiences and project them into songs that evoke an emotional response from the audience. Never is this better demonstrated than on the new track ‘Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry’. “God is it my purpose here on Earth?” is the immediate question posed by Scouten as she channels the mother of a young man whom she has no choice but to allow to become an “instrument of war”, all the while, working in the munitions factories to ensure “every German mother’s son” ponders the same question.

Lyrically, it seems like a sharp left turn, given how the songs leading up to this have drawn from personal experiences of love and loss. However, Scouten is the granddaughter of a distinguished World War II Royal Canadian Air Force Lancaster bomber pilot. It is through this connection that she drew her inspiration to write a song that is filled with compassion for the feelings of futility experienced by mothers who lost their sons to war and a reserved but ever so sharp anger towards society which actively encouraged boys to leave home to join the frontlines; “if your boys stay home, they’ll never live it down.”

‘It is this writer’s opinion that ‘PPCLI’ is the perfect sharp exclamation point that would mark the end of the EP. However, it is followed by ‘Wanderlust’ a classic-sounding Americana song that continues the themes of a life passed by littered with chances not taken.  It’s engaging, light-hearted and easily fits with the rest of the track listing, but it does feel a bit jarring following on from the emotional intensity of ‘PPCLI.’

With Transmutations, Sarah Jane Scouten has delivered more than just a live record with stripped-down performances of her previous work but instead created an EP that emphasises her skills as a songwriter, performer and most of all as an artist.

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Words Kieran Stowell

The post Sarah Jane Scouten: Transmutations A Little Record of Gold appeared first on Right Chord Music Blog.

Alex Runions – On an Island

Since releasing ‘I’ll Do The Driving’ back in 2022, Runions has celebrated recent shifts in his personal life, seeing him become a father and a husband. Back for 2024, he is starting right where he left off – as an unformidable force in the country game.

Starting with a gentle acoustic rhythm and soft vocal, ‘On An Island’ wastes no time in painting an emphatic image. Brimming with storytelling and emotion, Runions showcases his sensational ability to craft gripping tales of love and loss. Propelled by a solid backbeat, the golden tremolo launches the single into the heady heights of its chorus.

Written alongside producer Chris Burke-Gaffney, the single explores the entrancing nature of relationships and how they may start to drift apart. Speaking about the release, Runions explains, “Relationships can start off being beautiful and fulfilling, before evolving into growing emotional distance despite the semblance of intimacy. As co-writers, Chris and I wanted to look at what that sense of isolation feels like when – despite your best intentions – you’re floating further away from the person you love.”

It’s sensational to hear an artist of Alex Runions calibre back doing what he does best. The town he was raised in, Kipling Saskatchewan, has even raised a billboard in his honour. ‘On An Island’ is a sensational tale of love and loss, complete with silky melodies and formidable lyrics. 

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