This edition of LITM Singer-Songwriter Picks take you through drifty instrumentation and poetic verses, from artists - Lanusa, Michael B Kowal, Erik Rabasca and Dave Hill Jr.
1. Lanusa – Jupiter
Lanusa’s latest soul-folk track, ‘Jupiter’, mixes drifty avant-garde instrumentation with earthy textures, taking the listener on a gentle stroll across hazy sandstorms and dusky sunsets. Almost as if the music is assembled with jagged tools and rough estimates, the rhythm gives a hint of off-balance while keeping pace and mellow movement like low-hanging clouds. It feels explorative and takes its time to settle into a groove, taking pauses where it needs to. Heavily texture-driven, the chords anchor the tone to contemplative and low-key, surrounded by a mix of crunchy strums, wistful overtones, and a soft embossing of arbitrary riffs alongside the vocalist’s soulful, misty vocals. Listen here-
2. Michael B Kowal – Magic Show
This track brings a similar mellow vibe as the previous, with its smooth-sailing bluesy landscaping and reggae architecture. The song takes you through breezy vocals atop the instrumentation of a funky bass groove, reggae-inspired beats, and a rustic brass shimmer with a flair for fanfare. The addition of a mouth organ takes the song to a whole new level, bringing more grandiosity in the interlude. The overall instrumentation has a handheld feel to it, bringing in a sense of playfulness and whimsy, with the textures and airiness to the flow. Check it out here-
3. Erik Rabasca – Foolin’ Yourself- Acoustic
On the other hand, if you’re in the mood for something more fun and homely, check out Erik Rabasca’s acoustic cover of his track ‘Foolin’ Yourself’. The track, rooted in Americana and folk, leans toward a warm sound and a distinct timelessness. The music makes you want to tap your feet, and perhaps even search for a dance floor, with its infectious instrumentation and Rabasca’s vocals adding a rusty layer of grit atop. The cheerful strumming is accompanied by the instrument’s own melodic riffs, keeping the interludes and chorus decadent. This is one of those songs you’d put on for a breezy, chill vibe and a relaxing time.
4. Dave Hill Jr. – Chasing Stars
Dave Hill Jr’s ‘Chasing Stars’ is just the song to go to for inspiration and hope. The track weaves poetry with shimmery, soulful instrumentation, finding the extraordinary in the ordinary. Each layer adds a subtle sense of whimsy, as Hill Jr’s dewy vocals gently lift the mood from atop, with introspective lines like, “I hear heartbeats beating down the door,” that nail the emotion. The mix of deep, earthy timbres with soothing, glassy vocals creates a great contrast of textures; from soft, arpeggiated guitar riffs to swirling synths to wandering bass notes, the song is rife with soothing color and warmth, leaving you wanting more.
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