Bruce Springsteen

Darren Burdis Takes an Emotional Stroll Through Heartbreak on New Single “Heartbeats” – Single Review

3rd Oct 2024 — Leave a comment

Indie singer-songwriter Darren Burdis’ new single will certainly get hearts fluttering with a gorgeous, personal track.

The Newcastle songwriter has turned in a clever and touching acoustic ballad, hitting hard from the moment the needle drops.

The shimmering guitar line that floats atop the acoustic opening is a gorgeous way to start showcasing Burdis’ talent with the instrument and setting the track on the right path.

I particularly enjoyed how the drumbeat mirrored the rhythm of a heartbeat, reflecting the meticulous attention to detail in the production.

In terms of the overall vibe of the song I could hear the influences of indie folk artists such as Elliot Smith, particularly evident in the heartbreaking lyrics.

This is beautifully intertwined with the glossy guitar work which reminded me of the heartland rock of Bruce Springsteen and the North East’s own Sam Fender.

The vocal delivery is hoarse and husky perfectly suited to this track giving Burdis the perfect tools to paint this emotionally raw piece onto the record.

The gorgeous backing vocals towards the backend of the song evoke early Radiohead, and if you’re into similar acoustic indie music with a lot of heart, this single is definitely for you.

Boy Found Sound Delivers Americana-Tinged Indie Pop Brilliance on ‘Ultraviolet- Single Review

20th Aug 2024 — Leave a comment

Boy Found Sound’s latest single is a touching indie pop ode, featuring gorgeous production and well-constructed songwriting.

The track sets off like a runaway train, bringing with a nice Americana feel reminiscent of the likes of Bruce Springsteen and The War on Drugs, with its combination of acoustic guitar with beautifully reverbed riffs layered on top.

With the mood set, Boy Found Sound is free to write touching verses about a girl with ultraviolet eyes, over the top of this musical bed.

Musically, the track acts like a continuous train of thought, with no let-up throughout the tune and only subtle changes in tempo between the verse and the chorus.

This momentum only pauses for an amazing guitar solo, which reminded me a lot of Sam Fender with its reverb-heavy distortion and brilliant technicality.

Overall, this is a great song that has been meticulously put together. If you’re a fan of Sam Fender, then this is for you!

Alastair James’ “It’s Time To Move On”: A Defiant Foot-Stomping Anthem – SINGLE REVIEW

4th Jul 2024 — Leave a comment

The latest single from Alastair James combines the very best of Rock and Americana to produce a delightful foot stomping anthem.

Taking influence from the likes of Tom Petty and Bruce Springsteen, the Middlesbrough singer-songwriter blends genres and ideas on the track to excellent effect as he continues his comeback after time away from music.

James addresses his personal struggles in the lyrics, singing about the vertigo he suffered as a result of surgery on his hand and leg, and the mental strength it took to get him back to doing what he loves.

Both musically and lyrically, the track is defiant, opening with a distorted guitar intro that is guaranteed to get your foot tapping. This driving guitar line perfectly complements the lyrics about moving on, triumphantly gliding through the track.

The influence of heroes such as Springsteen and the Kinks is evident by the time the song reaches the soaring anthemic chorus.

The overall effect makes you feel as though you could be on a road trip down Route 66, with a real uplifting heartlands feel.

A beautifully played guitar solo adds to the tracks positivity and builds anticipation for an amazing climax.

Overall, this song radiates positivity and heart, with James defiantly moving on from his struggles and, with music as good as this, into a bright future.