Happy Monday!
Hope the sun is shining wherever you are, I aim to bring you a little more brightness on a mundane Monday with some new songs... here goes. Hope you enjoy.
First up, the magnificent
Josh Osho - Redemption Days.
This young singer songwriter had his debut TV appearance here in the UK last Friday and it's safe to say had me reeled in, hook, line and sinker! At just 20 years of age, Josh Osho hailing from South London has life experiences twice his age. At the start of 18, Josh won an online talent competition and since, has taken part in TV series, 'The Debutantes'. All of which have seen Osho gain and develop his endless musical abilities. Reminiscent of Ben Harper and John Mayer, Osho came to the attention of Island Records in 2011, the name behind late Amy Winehouse and Frankmusik. His debut single 'Redemption Days' was performed on the prestigious spot on Later With Jools Holland last week and is due for release on 25 July 2011.
Described as an 'unplugged Seal', the hip-hop Beatles esque, husky vocals are not ones to miss.
Having already toured with Emeli Sande and Rizzle Kicks I am fairly certain we will be hearing a lot of this young artist in the upcoming years and frankly, I cannot wait. PS. His cover of Kanye West, 'Jesus Walks' is utterly sublime, be sure to check it out.
2. The Secret Sisters - 'Tennessee Me'
Alabama siblings, Laura and Lydia Rogers are a traditional country duo, with idyllic harmonies and acapella interludes reminisicent of the likes of The Staves and First Aid Kit. The sisters never dreamt of singing in a duo as a career, with Laura pursuing a degree in business and Lydia, considered the "real singer" within the family. However, it was when Lydia travelled to Nashville, Tennessee for an impromptu audition that the sisters received the recognition they so rightly deserve. Shortly after they were flown to LA to record in the studio for the first time, with record companies responding and within weeks they were signed to Universal Republic.
Their self titled album is available now and consists of originals and cover songs such as Sinatra's "Somethin Stupid" and "My Heart Skips A Beat". The entire album as recorded in just two weeks, incorporating steel guitar and piano. In addition, the use of vintage microphones and classic recording techniques, give The Secret Sisters a unique retro style. Their latest release, "Tomorrow Will Be Kinder", inspired by the Alabama tornado outbreak of 2011, is featured on the wonderful Hunger Games soundtrack alongside the likes of The Civil Wars and Taylor Swift.
3. Beth Jeans Houghton - 'Golden'
Where to start with my latest gem, Beth Jeans Houghton. Now, this is one I want to scream from the rooftops, if I could offer you one word of advice right now it would be to listen to this artist.
This exciting English singer songwriter, hailing from Newcastle upon Tyne has already developed quite a following, having supported the likes of Bon Iver, Mumford & Sons and Imogen Heap.
The sound of sweet and gentle folk seems to come effortlessly to the young singer songwriter who effectively mixes angelic vocals and the ever favourite, acoustic guitar. Having first started writing songs in her teens, her debut EP was released back in 2008 on Bird Records. Following this, Houghton was signed to Static Caravan Records, earning acclaim from UK followers with the releases of EP 'Hot Toast' and beautiful single, 'Golden'.
Having relocated to LA, in 2011 Houghton signed for Mute Records and released the album, 'Yours Truly, Cellophane Nose', by Beth Jeans Houghton
It's easy to compare the sound of Beth Jeans Hougton to the likes of Laura Marling, however, the mix of glamrock, psychedelic pop elements and humour displayed in Houghtons sounds are enough to set them apart. I urge you to listen, you will not regret it!
4. Ed Tullett - 'Never Joy'
As you have probabally guessed by now, I love stumbling across new music and this was simply magnificent find. Suggested by a friend I took a listen and weeks on, I find myself with the album on repeat. With melancholy vocals displaying talents way beyond his years, I predict Ed Tullett is a name you'll be hearing a lot of in the next few years.
With noticeable influences to the fantastic Justin Vernon and James Vincent McMorrow, Tullett has released his debut EP via bandcamp, available for immediate download and whats more it's free.
All music, production and lyrics featured on this album were recorded in one room by Ed Tullett, a real breathe of fresh air in the music industry, displaying the endless talents of such a young artist. Currently unsigned, Ed displays abilities to rival many acoustic singer songwriters gracing our airwaves. I am especially excited by this artist, so much so, I have arranged for an interview and will be letting you in on everything Ed Tullett in a few weeks. Acoustic banjo, rhythmic, poetic folk and idyllic harmonies. What more would you want. Amen.
5. Polica - 'Dark Star'
Taking a bit of a twist from the normal gentle folk vibes of Daisy Digital recommends, I bring to you the captivating sounds of Polica. This time last year however, the band didn't exist, yet having played at SXSW, it's fair to say, the relatively unknown band had everyone talking. With subtle hints of R&B, post dubstep laying the backing tracks for sensual vocals of Channy Leaneagh, these sounds are perfect for the summer sun. Already boasting a celebrity fan, rumour has it, they're Jay-Z's favourite indie band, that's enough to sell them to you right? Whatsmore, in the words of Bon Iver's very own Justin Vernon, "They're the best band I've ever heard'.
Their debut album, 'Give You The Ghost' is available now, with dreamy, distorted vocals floating between gunshot drum beats and mesmerizing undertones. Making use of auto-tune usually makes my blood boil however, the unlikely tool on a folk album only allows for experimentation within this fantastic album. For that, I give praise.
That's all for now. I hope you take a listen, let me know what you think!
A pleasure as always, thanks Tanja!
Hannah