Ervin Munir’s latest album, “Broken Compass,” marks the pinnacle of his year in the folk scene. This album mirrors Ervin’s unwavering dedication, as he wholeheartedly pours his passion into every note and lyric. The result is a ten-track collection that glues heartwarming tales with irresistible indie-folk backdrops.
Ervin’s approach to songwriting and storytelling is distinctive, shattering conventions with tracks like ‘Fall Apart’ and ‘The Busker.’ Each song on the album possesses a unique charm, making it impossible to ignore the emotional depth and weight embedded in every piece. Listening to “Broken Compass” on a full stereo setup elevates the experience and it leaves us excited for what may come from the Norfolk singer-songwriter in 2024.
Marsha Swanson’s latest single, ‘Not You’. is an emotional powerhouse that tugs at my heartstrings. Her ability to evoke deep feelings through her music is truly inspiring. It’s like she’s picking up right where she left off with ‘Facing Life’ and then taking it to the next level, leaving me eagerly anticipating her upcoming album, ‘Near Life Experience.’
The vocals on ‘Not You’ are what truly shine for me. Marsha’s voice carries so much emotion, and it’s impossible not to be moved by it. But it’s not just the vocals; the lyrics and music work in perfect harmony, creating a profoundly touching experience.
In just a few minutes, Marsha manages to transport you into her world of emotions and reflection. You can experience it fully below.
British singer-songwriter Marsha Swanson has made an impressive comeback, solidifying her position as a leading name in the music industry with her recent release, ‘In Parallel.’ And now, she is set to take the music scene by storm once again, as she gears up to drop her latest single, ‘Facing Life,’ this coming Friday, 4th August 2023.
Following the success of ‘In Parallel,’ which garnered immense praise for its captivating sound and thoughtful lyrics, Marsha Swanson aims to push the boundaries even further with ‘Facing Life.’ This new track promises to deliver a fresh dimension, showcasing the artist’s unwavering commitment to quality and professionalism.
While the track is yet to be officially streamed online, lucky insiders have already been treated to an early preview. From what we’ve heard, it’s safe to say that fans are in for a real treat when ‘Facing Life’ emerges on New Music Friday. The song is undoubtedly Marsha Swanson at her best, combining her signature melodic charm with deeply emotive storytelling.
Ah, without a doubt, the latest single from Ervin Munir, bearing the resplendent title ‘Pick up the Phone’, shall undoubtedly captivate the hearts of those fortunate enough to encounter its melodious embrace. This enthralling encounter emerges from the artistic genius of Norfolk’s very own Munir, whose penchant for amalgamating folk and indie elements into a distinct and remarkable fusion is well-known.
The single, an exultant expression of positivity and joy, is certain to elevate the spirits of its listeners, buoyed by the ethereal vocals of the enchanting Tina Blaber. Munir’s guitar artistry evokes a profound sense of nostalgia and solace, skillfully merging strength and warmth, enveloping us in a comforting reverie.
The rhythmic cadence established by the drums possesses an almost hypnotic allure, promptly compelling one’s body to sway gracefully in unison with its pulse. The harmonious convergence of Munir’s and Blaber’s voices adds a layer of celestial beauty and mellifluousness to the delivery, endowing it with profound depth and significance.
Marsha Swanson, the acclaimed folk artist and winner of multiple awards for her extraordinary talent, is set to make a momentous return to the music industry with her highly-anticipated single, “In Parallel.” Scheduled for release on June 9th, this track marks Swanson’s first musical endeavor in several years, leaving fans eager to immerse themselves in her distinctive sound once again.
For this special release, Swanson enlisted the collaboration of an esteemed team of musicians, including the renowned Henry (King Thumb) Thomas. Widely recognized for his role as a co-presenter and writer contributor of the BBC TV series Rockschool, Thomas’s involvement adds an exciting dynamic to the composition. Together, Swanson and Thomas create a powerful fusion of folk and rock elements that promise to captivate listeners from the very first note.
Recorded at the prestigious Konk Studios, “In Parallel” benefits from the expertise of multi-platinum-selling producer Iestyn Polson. Polson, known for his work with esteemed artists such as David Gray, Patti Smith, and David Bowie, brings his wealth of experience and keen musical sensibilities to the project. The result is a finely crafted piece of music
Ervin Munir is to release a new single on the 28th of April. The new single, titled, ‘Fall Apart’, is a reworked version of a song that was first written in 2014. The new arrival has undergone a number of adjustments and upgrades, such as the inclusion of new instruments and a production quality that is up to par with the requirements of the music industry in 2023.
‘Fall Apart’ is a fusion of folk and rock that digs into the challenges of going through important life transitions. The track emphasises the significance of standing up for one’s principles, and it is a musical adventure that revolves around an arrangement that has a guitar being plucked. In the midst of the heart-warming harmonica lines and stirring harmonies, Aeron Z. Jones also emerges with lap-steel guitar hooks.
Hello, Brightwell and Moran, Let’s talk about your new single, ‘Bare Boards’, what is the meaning?
(K) We originally wrote the song about an old house, and the decision about whether to tear it down or to take time to renovate it and make it new again. It was inspired in part by the rapid gentrification of some neighborhoods where we live in Portland, Oregon, USA. But the song is also a metaphor for the self, or a relationship. Sometimes you don’t know what to do until you see the “bare boards” underneath, whether you can restore the structure with a lot of love and careful work, or whether you need to start from scratch.
Which artists in the current industry inspire you the most?
(K) I am really inspired by Jason Isbell and Amanda Shires. To me, Isbell is the finest songwriter out there right now, and he tells difficult and important stories in the simplest, most elegant language. Shires has been instrumental in breaking down barriers and female stereotypes in country music, on top of being a great fiddle player and singer/songwriter herself. Together they’re unstoppable!
(W) I find the story of John Mayer’s scare with his vocal cords so inspirational. Here is a guy who has released a ton of songs, won Grammy awards and then starts losing his voice. So, he stops performing, stops talking except in a whisper. He accepts his situation and starts practicing his already amazing guitar chops with the attitude, I can still be a really good session guitar player even if I don’t get my voice back. But gratefully, his voice returned!
Photo Credit: Brightwell And Moran
What is the best thing about being a musician in 2023?
(K) There is absolutely no lack of inspiration or subject material! And the means of production is very much in the artist’s hands now, along with platforms that allow you direct access to your fan base. That means as a musician, you can create songs about the vital issues of our time, record them and get them into the hands of listeners.
(W) I agree with Kelly that technology plays an exciting role in music today. A great example is that we mixed our latest EP and our new single “Bare Boards” remotely. Our producer for the EP was in Dallas, Texas with the two of us in Portland, Oregon. Our producer for the single was in Poland with us once more in Portland.
Is there a certain place you often go to write? E.g a certain room, or environment?
(K) I’m not writing too much solo these days… I need a lot of solitude and space to do that, and it’s not often compatible with my current family situation. Writing with Woody is easier in that way — we usually hang out at his house to write.
(W) I think all of our Brightwell & Moran songs have either been written in my living room or my little covered backyard patio.
What is your first memory of music?
(K) I remember being completely enthralled by Scott Joplin’s “The Entertainer” when I was maybe 3 or 4 years old. I’m not sure what about it grabbed me — it’s very energetic and happy, with a lot going on. I think it just overwhelmed me with a good feeling.
(W) I was also pretty young. I got a little record player for Christmas one year and the first 45 (called a single these days) I purchased was “Stop In The Name of Love” by the Supremes. My first album was by Peter, Paul & Mary and I worked very hard at hearing each vocal harmony.
Brightwell & Moran’s track ‘Bare Boards’ has piqued our interest these last few days. We originally heard the new song through the duo’s publicist, and we’ve been coming back to hear more of it ever since!
The song has an old-school country-folk vibe to it, but there are plenty of modern flavours to make it relevant in 2023. The songwriting is excellent, which comes as no surprise given that the couple won the Talent Is Timeless songwriting competition in 2022, which is how this release came about in the first place!
‘Bare Boards’ is one which you need to hear for yourself; you can take a listen below.
Tomorrow, February 10th, is the day that Rutland singer-songwriter AJ Whyte is going to release his newest track, ‘Back To The Water’, which is another gem from the artist.
AJ demonstrates his versatility as a modern day musician by departing from the stripped down acoustic style and including the addition of drums, bass, and a variety of other instruments. Also, two different versions will be available: one will be a studio recording, and the other will be a live studio version.
The track is full of sentiment and brimming with passion, you can check out a preview below.
Ervin, the vocalist who came to our attention for the first time in 2022, has returned with a new track ‘Carolynn’. The release is out on Friday, February 17th, and it will have you hooked in no time!
Not only is the music lovely, with the plucked guitar arrangement creating a beautiful feeling within us, but the words also move us closer to the speakers as the singer-songwriter speaks honestly about a relationship clouded by depression. Nevertheless, Ervin looks back at his time with his beautiful Carolynn and reflects fondly on their shared experiences.
