LeVolume - Clint Wilson - Pam Ross - Chad Price Peace Coalition

LeVolume - LeVolume (Album).

LeVolume is a new project for its members Jenny Whiteley, Joey Wright and Julian Brown. "That Was Then, This Is Now" is a harmony-filled mid-tempo tune with the catchy chorus singing "turn up the radio!" It's a summer-themed ode to the lost moments of youth.

Jenny Whiteley is a Canadian folk and roots singer-songwriter known for her soulful voice and heartfelt storytelling. She began her career performing with the bluegrass band Heartbreak Hill before launching her solo career in 2001. Her debut album, Jenny Whiteley, and its follow-up, Hopetown, both won Juno Awards for Best Roots & Traditional Album of the Year. Whiteley has released several acclaimed albums, including Dear, Forgive or Forget, and The Original Jenny Whiteley. Her music blends folk, country, and bluegrass influences, earning praise for its authenticity and emotional depth. She has collaborated with artists like Sarah Harmer, Amy Millan, and Carolyn Mark.

The world first discovered Julian Brown for his work in Guh, a Toronto-based collective known for its genre-defying music. He has since been involved in multiple musical projects as a performer, composer and producer. He performed as a regular member of the art-rock hedonist band Apostle of Hustle. As a solo artist Julian is known for blending acoustic and folk influences with loop-based compositions. His music often carries a melancholic yet hopeful tone, shaped by lyrics that convey his personal experiences. Brown has released several singles and albums, including Whatever Comes Today (2018) and more recent tracks like Hold Me and A Single Lie. His work spans genres such as singer-songwriter, pop, and folk, showcasing his versatility as a musician.

Joey Wright is a Canadian musician known for his cinematic music that blends elements of bluegrass, jazz, blues, and world music, creating unique and immersive soundscapes. Joey has collaborated with several notable artists, including being a long-time of Sarah Harmer's band, and was a core founder of the historic Toronto bluegrass ensemble Crazy Strings. His last solo album Country, Music (2017) features contributions from musicians like Amy Millan, Evan Cranley, and Pat McGee.

LeVolume · Levolume

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Photo - Lauren Murphy photography

Clint Wilson - Melbourne In The Wintertime.

Melbourne singer-songwriter, Clint Wilson, unleashes the first single from his forthcoming new album. “Melbourne in the Wintertime” conjures nostalgic memories of the Victorian capital while telling a personal tale of sensing a relationship breaking down while trying not to let love fade into the loneliness.

Wrapped in Clint’s distinct suburban authenticity, he once again brings local context and real-world experiences to his music.

Produced by the renowned Kevin Bennett of The Flood who has perfectly captured the sentiment of the song - pairing it with an indie rock spin that is retro yet refreshingly modern. You can almost feel the bitter chill of Melbourne at this time of year while Clint stokes the emotive embers through his delivery. “Melbourne in the Wintertime” was co-written with Zach Jacobs and is a very welcome return of Clint Wilson.

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Pam Ross - Have a Good Time.

Independent country-Americana rocker Pam Ross returns with a radiant, feel-good anthem for the summer with her new single, “Have a Good Time.” Radiating with sun-drenched optimism and soulful swagger, “Have a Good Time” finds Ross at her most carefree and confident. With a breezy groove and lyrics that celebrate simplicity, gratitude, and living in the moment, the track is a musical reminder to pause, breathe deep, and soak up life’s blessings. In a world full of hustle and noise, Ross delivers a grounding message: “Just wanna have a good time… ‘cause I’m feeling fine.”

“The sun’s shining down on me today / That’s something that can’t be bought / Gonna put it all on cruise control / And appreciate what I’ve got,” she sings, in a voice rich with warmth and wisdom.

The song’s laid-back rhythm and genre-fusing sound echo Ross’ trademark blend of country, Americana, and rock, while its lyrics reflect her seasoned insight as a songwriter who’s lived and learned—and knows when to step back and simply enjoy the ride. With references to cosmic flow, sipping sunshine, and ditching life’s stressors, “Have a Good Time” is both a mantra and a soundtrack for soul-searching days and windows-down drives.

Pam Ross has been on a remarkable rise in the independent music world, earning accolades from the Josie Music Awards, Independent Music Network Awards, and the Who’s Hoo Awards. Her music, praised for its emotional grit and melodic authenticity, continues to resonate with a growing fanbase drawn to her honesty and genre-defying style. “Have a Good Time” is the latest in a string of standout releases from Ross, who has built a loyal following through her electrifying performances, compelling songwriting, and undeniable charm.

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Photo - Lindsey Lu McGuire

Chad Price Peace Coalition - Wake Me.

Chad Price Peace Coalition shares “Wake Me” from its debut, A Perfect Pearl (Double Helix Records | SofaBurn Records). An artist entering his staggering fourth decade writing and performing music that weaves in and out of seminal pop-punk, alt-country, metal, and a fascinating indie folk-prog hybrid, Chad Price has made the most of his time.

As a result of many miles and artistic transformations (ALL, Drag The River, A Vulture Wake) Price now welcomes the arrival of a new project: Chad Price Peace Coalition and the album A Perfect Pearl. Price unpacks the group’s origin story: “A year or so ago I did a show singing with an ALL cover band. I really liked the guys and we bonded over our love of prog-rock. The idea of expanding the sound started influencing my writing.”

Cory West (drums, lead guitar, and keys) and Anthony Medici (bass, lead guitar, and vocals) were the perfect partners in fleshing out Price’s latest ten songs. While A Perfect Pearl certainly delivers Price’s signature rough-hewn vulnerability, the limber trio format kicks up some sublime musical moments that feel distinctly inspired by prog giants like Jethro Tull and Yes.

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The Wildmans - Mollie Elizabeth - Jazmine Mary - Mariel Buckley

Photograph by Magnolia Ellenburg

The Wildmans - Autumn 1941.

The Wildmans will release Longtime Friend on July 11, 2025 via New West Records. The 12-song set was produced by Nicholas Falk (Hiss Golden Messenger, Dori Freeman) and recorded by Chris Bittner at Applehead Recording in Woodstock, NY. Longtime Friend’s sound itself is at the sonic crossroads of Americana, Alt-Country, Bluegrass, and Folk with the brother-sister duo of Aila and Elisha Wildman being joined by Dori Freeman, Jeff Hill, Sam Leslie, Sam Fribush, Redd Volkaert, and Nicholas Falk as well.
 
Not far from the tiny town of Floyd, Virginia, surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, is the childhood home The Wildmans. A veritable hotbed of bluegrass, old-time, and mountain music, Aila and Elisha Wildman have been immersed in the rich, vibrant music scenes surrounding them for as long as they can remember. As kids, Elisha picked up the guitar and mandolin, while Aila reached for the fiddle. They became enamored with their instruments, which parlayed itself into a presence at regional festivals and also winning numerous renowned competitions around Southern Appalachia. Both recent graduates of the prestigious Berklee School of Music in Boston, Massachusetts, The Wildmans’ Longtime Friend showcases both their musical virtuosity and the interlacing harmonies which are specifically unique to siblings. The sound itself takes the essence of their intricate musicality in the bluegrass and old-time realms and slides that into more contemporary tomes of Americana and indie-folk.

One of the albums highlight is “Autumn 1941.” The Wildmans said, “We first heard the song when co-writers Roger Brown, former Berklee College of Music President, and Mark Simos, Berklee songwriting professor, brought it to us. They thought we would connect to the story being from our region and this being a part of Appalachian history not often told. It immediately sparked interest. Different versions of this story of eugenics prove to be true across Appalachian regions and more largely other minorities throughout American early-mid 20th century history. Our good friend, Dori Freeman, who is singing the background vocals on this track, told us she had read a book about this same movement in Virginia and communities like Floyd, our hometown. We felt we could take this song and make it our own. Once we got into the studio with it, the song just flowed and out came a haunting authenticity we hadn’t yet discovered in our music.” 

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Photo - Sophia Schrank

Mollie Elizabeth - Until We Meet Again.

21-year-old Washington State-based artist Mollie Elizabeth reveals her third track “Until We Meet Again” via Neon Gold / Virgin Music. Mollie Elizabeth notes: “I think we all have people that we only truly get to visit in our dreams- whether it’s ones we’ve lost through life or love. I find it beautifully devastating to know that our minds will continue to hold them in our hearts and in our souls, even if only a silhouette.”

“Until We Meet Again” is produced by Dean Reid (Lana Del Rey, Marina) and co-written with Reid and GRAMMY-nominated Casey Smith (Olivia Rodrigo, Ashe, Benson Boone). The dusky amour of “Until We Meet Again” is Old Hollywood glamour through and through. Mollie perfumes her music with a rare kind of chic, one that comes with a winking self-assurance and a genuine sweetness.

In January, she first introduced herself with her first viral song, “Vegas Venetian”. Elizabeth adds: “To me, every melody is a tiny world that invites you in—an invitation to be both fierce and delicate, and to celebrate who you are, who you have been, and who you are becoming. My music isn’t just for listening—it’s for wandering, for imagining, and for finding a piece of yourself in a place you’d forgotten.”

Last month, she revealed her second track and a perfectly matching music video (dir. Maya Sassoon) for “Dinner For One”, produced by Dean Reid (Lana Del Rey, Marina) and co-written with Reid and GRAMMY-nominated Casey Smith (Olivia Rodrigo, Ashe, Benson Boone).

Mollie Elizabeth · Until We Meet Again

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Photo - Jim Tannock

Jazmine Mary - My Brilliance.

Flying Nun Records are very pleased to welcome noir folk artist Jazmine Mary to the whānau! Their album, 'I Want To Rock And Roll' is out digitally and on black vinyl LP on 13th June.

'I Want To Rock And Roll' is Jazmine Mary's third album, following on from the critically acclaimed, 'Dog' (2021) and the award-winning 'The Licking of a Tangerine' (2021). Recorded at Tāmaki Makaurau's Roundhead Studios by De Stevens, the upcoming self-produced album features musical contributions from some of Aotearoa's greats: Louisa Nicklin, Cass Basil (Tiny Ruins), Cello Forrester (Womb), Dave Khan (Marlon Williams) and Arahi.

Possessing one of the country's most esteemed and idiosyncratic folk voices, Jazmine Mary's new single 'My Brilliance' showcases their crystal clear vocal abilities that sit atop their signature rhythmic changes; a wonderfully bright, folk gem. Flying Nun Records couldn't be more stoked to have Jazmine aboard our train.

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Photo - Maggie Geis

Mariel Buckley - Vending Machines.

Unapologetically genuine, wry and soft-hearted, Mariel Buckley has planted her flag firmly as a songwriter who’s in it for the long haul. Never one for following the rules, she aims to find herself squarely on the fringes and exactly where she belongs: writing songs for the underdogs. Raised in the heart of Canada’s rodeo and country music scenes, she was destined to challenge the boundaries around her, both in life and in song. With a fearless spirit that’s consistently broken through both genre and personal barriers, Buckley’s unique blend of angst-driven alt-folk has made her a standout artist, offering a fresh and dynamic perspective on modern Americana music.

Her latest single, “Vending Machines”, marks the beginning of a new sonic and individual chapter. While familiar, darker instrumentation and themes are sprinkled throughout. She shares: “I was itching to try something a little heavier than my previous stuff. I wanted to move away from synths and keys in general, citing references from indie rock, pop music, and alt-country.” An avid admirer of his work, Mariel connected with Nashville based alt-Americana producer, Jarrad K (Ruston Kelly, Lucie Silvas, Fancy Hagood, Goo Goo Dolls) for the new single.

Despite having grittier undertones, the writing is intentionally vulnerable and specific, resulting in something inviting and universal. “Vending Machines” explores themes of self-doubt, uncertainty, and questioning one's path. It beautifully captures the feeling of restlessness and being in a constant, seemingly cyclical state of transition, unsure of where things are headed, and trying to find a way forward. Buckley confides, “I was genuinely questioning my career, personal life as a result of that career, my distant-feeling relationships with family and friends, and how I could restart after yet another big change. It should feel looping, liminal and never ending, like an endless travel day.”

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TEOSE - The Hill - Libertino Records Various Artists - Phonosonics

Photo - Aodhan Gallagher

TEOSE - Part II.

Glasgow alt-pop four-piece TEOSE have released their new single, ‘Part II’, which marks a bold new chapter for the band, showcasing a more polished and pop-forward sound while staying true to the raw emotional honesty that has become their signature. 

Formed in 2018, TEOSE, comprising Melissa (guitar/vocals), Sean (bass), Axel (keys) and Jordan (drums), blend four distinct musical backgrounds into a sound that’s earned comparisons to The Cure from the Scottish Alternative Music Awards.

Self-recorded at Chime Studios, ‘Part II’ is the title track from their forthcoming album, capturing the essence of their musical evolution. Compared to earlier DIY recordings laid down in their tiny Dalmarnock practice space, the new material features cleaner production and an infectious energy that hints at their pop sensibilities without losing the heartfelt grit that defines them.

At its core, ‘Part II’ explores the often-overlooked realities of social anxiety. Set against buoyant rhythms and dreamy textures, the lyrics paint a vivid picture of feeling out of place at a party, desperately seeking escape and the solace of home. From a jittery bass-driven intro to an unexpectedly playful and chaotic outro, the track mirrors the emotional rollercoaster of the night it describes.

"It’s one of my favourite songs we’ve ever written," says Melissa. "It takes you on a real journey—from feeling awkward and out of sync to finding that little bit of peace when you finally get into bed... then right back into the spiral of overthinking every awkward thing you said!"

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The Hill - See You There.

Gearing up for their new album release due this summer, The Hill have released the new single “See You There,” today May 16, 2025. The song and upcoming album are produced by Mike Slo Mo Brenner. Brenner was involved in several notable projects in 2024, including producing Susan Werner - Halfway to Houston (Best Album of 2024 by the Folk Alliance) and playing on Wild Pink’s, Dulling the Horns, (Paste Rock Album of the Year). He also played on several tracks with The Philly Specials, a project that also involved Stevie Nicks and Jon Bon Jovi.

“Mike was juggling some interesting projects, but once we finished the “Let This Storm Pass,” a previously released single (also on the upcoming LP), we got into a flow with the rest of the tracks,” said Jon Kowit, singer-songwriter and founder of The Hill. John Anthony (Solas, The Brothers McMullen, Backstreet Boys) was brought in to engineer the new single and the upcoming LP.

The Hill was featured as WXPN spotlight artist of the week and received terrestrial radio play in the U.S., Canada, Australia and South Africa. Their debut album Get In Line continues to build an audience organically, as it has been saved over 11,000 times on Spotify and routinely gets Shazam’d around the world.

About The Hill: The Hill is an Americana project founded upon the songs of Jon Kowit, a music junkie/former record store employee. The debut album Get In Line released in 2024 was recorded after he reconnected with indie music steel guitar/ multi-instrumentalist Mike Slo Mo Brenner (Jason Molina, Wild Pink, Marah, Susan Werner). The forthcoming album Noble Station is expected in July 2025.

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Libertino Records - SWIGOD! (Vol 1. Various Artists).

As a label, we’ve never been ones to look back. We’ve always been chasing the dreams of our artists, celebrating the now, and carving out space for the futures they’re building. After Covid, we thought briefly about releasing a compilation—but there was so much new music, so much to say in the moment, that the idea was quietly set aside. Until now. WHY NOW? Maybe because it finally felt right to stop for a moment, breathe, and take in what’s been built.

Nearly a decade of storytelling through song, of standing by our artists through every high and low, of staying true to something bigger than ourselves. This is a moment of change—an end of a chapter, and the beginning of something new. SWIGOD isn’t just a compilation. It’s a celebration of everything Libertino has stood for since day one: being fearlessly independent, pushing Welsh music beyond borders, and believing—always—that music is magic, and that the world needs to hear it. This album is a love letter to everyone who’s believed in this journey with us. It’s not a retrospective—it’s a statement of intent. This is only the beginning.

Libertino was born out of a moment of pure inspiration on a dance floor in Carmarthen’s iconic venue, The Parrot. It was a flash of clarity at one of ARGRPH’s and Adwaith’s first live shows that ignited a passion to create a label that would amplify a new wave of Welsh artists, breaking free from outdated expectations. It was a moment that made it clear that there was no other choice but to build something that would champion these voices and give them the platform they deserved.

From the outset, Libertino was founded as a fearlessly independent, bilingual, alternative and progressive label-one that wasn’t just about releasing music but about reshaping the industry itself. We wanted to be a catalyst for change, making the Welsh music scene more open, ethical and supportive-not just for young artists but also for the larger creative community around us. We are deeply artist-centred, creating an environment that feels like a family, where musicians can grow, experiment and explore their creativity in a dynamic and inspiring space. The glass ceiling that has held back so many Welsh artists, especially those singing in Welsh, needed to be shattered. Our mission has always been to take Welsh music beyond its borders, reaching larger UK and international audiences while staying true to the artists’ identities.

Libertino · SWIGOD!: Libertino Cyfrol / Vol 1.

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Phonosonics - Everything I Do.

Sung by long-time Phonosonics guitarist Aidan Snider, this sunny breakup tune is the story about an ex you just can't get out of your head (much like the chorus!). This is the first single from the band's forthcoming album, which is almost entirely recorded live, giving listeners worldwide a sense of the band's sensational live sound.

This one gets back to the band’s Rocksteady and Early Reggae roots, and their reverence for vintage Jamaican riddims and recording techniques. The Phonosonics hope this one reminds you of a love from days gone by.

Composed by Aidan Snider and The Phonosonics.
Aidan Snider - Guitar and Lead Vocal.
Spencer Cleave - Backup Vocals, Saxophone, Piano.
Ned Saric - Drums.
Luis Meneses - Bass.
Matt Shamas - Organ.
David Bamford - Trumpet.

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Amanda DeBoer Bartlett - HalfLife - Brian Dunne

Photo by Aleksandr Karjaka

Amanda DeBoer Bartlett - Quick Trips.

Amanda DeBoer Bartlett’s final single “Quick Trips” is out this week. It's the second single we have featured from her forthcoming album and once again we are superbly impressed by the whole thing. Beautiful heartfelt vocals, along with a superbly crafted and melodic musical backdrop, this sets up the new album to be something very special. Written while touring with babies in tow, it’s a tender, road-worn reflection on gas station coffee, fleeting cities, and the disorienting beauty of life in motion.

It’s the last preview before her full-length album Braided Together arrives June 6, a sweeping blend of country, folk, classical, and experimental music, recorded at Electrical Audio with standout Chicago players. Amanda’s work has been featured in The New York Times, Chicago Tribune, Bandcamp Daily, I Care If You Listen, and more.

Braided Together is Amanda DeBoer Bartlett’s second collection of original songs. Blending her roots in country, folk, classical, and experimental music, the album delves into Bartlett’s childhood in Nebraska, her life as a young musician on the road, and the transformations of early motherhood. The songs pay tribute to gas stations and cheap motels, embrace the chaotic sweetness of raising babies, and contemplate reckless escapes into the clouds. With powerful and expressive vocals, Bartlett brings these themes to life through intricately crafted songs, recorded with Taylor Hales at the legendary Electrical Audio and performed by some of Chicago’s most admired players in the folk, jazz, and indie rock scenes.

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HalfLife - Nothing New.

Nothing New is about moving on from people and places, and being able to embrace that while also acknowledging how much you miss them. We wrote this song towards the end of our last year of high school, as we were all preparing to say goodbye to friends and colleagues that we’d known for years.

Artist Bio: We’re a pop rock band, composed of two girls and two guys, who met in high school in Geneva, Switzerland. Now at university, we meet up in the summer to record new music. We released our first song “Never Going Back” in January 2024, a few months before we graduated. In August of that same year we recorded our debut EP “Epilogues”, which was released a couple of weeks back.

For our EP, we drew on a plethora of influences, from Oasis to Bloc Party, from No Doubt to Olivia Rodrigo, as we tried to craft an identity for ourselves. Our EP was written entirely by the band members (plus our bassist’s sister on one track), as well as produced, mixed and mastered by us.

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Brian Dunne - Play The Hits.

Indie singer-songwriter Brian Dunne shares the bittersweet new single "Play The Hits," his first solo release since 2023's Loser On The Ropes, out today on Missing Piece Records. A punchy song about aging and self-destruction built around fatalist drama, "Play The Hits" becomes more of a pep talk as Dunne approaches the main character with so much empathy and humor that you can't help but root for them.

Along with the release, Dunne shares a live acoustic performance of the song, which was recorded at the Red Hook, Brooklyn restaurant Pitt’s.  

“'Play The Hits' is a song about the constant struggle to swim upstream, and the inevitable surrender of your once sanctimonious and youthful idealism," says Dunne. "It’s a bittersweet, humbling day when you have to lay down your sword; when you find yourself in dire straits (the situation, not the band), and there’s only one way out. So play 'em the hits. The odds were against you from the start.”


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