Songwriting Credits… best new music playlist [May 2024]

Here’s our previous selection of 40 tracks from March 2023

	The E.M.T by Allen Epley A beautifully twisted love song in which a flight paramedic attends a near-fatal car wreck and finally gets to help the woman of his dreams. Aided by a production that sparkles like flashing emergency lights, it’s a sentiment that manages to resonate. Songwriter(s): Allen Epley Producer(s): Allen Epley Label: Spartan Records Lyric: I’ve come to save you / and fly you away
	Death Sentence by Jouska The work of Oslo-based, singer-producer and Sassy 009 bandmate Marit Othilie Thorvik, this gentle R&B lullaby tempts you like a welcoming duvet. Listen closely to the lyrics though and you’ll be keen to get out from under this toxic relationship. Songwriter(s): Hans Olav Settem, Marit Othilie Thorvik Producer(s): Hans Olav Settem, Marit Othilie Thorvik Label: Koke Plate Lyric: Drag me down and I’ll be safe and sound / buried in concrete
	Waiting by Signe Marie Rustad A singer-songwriter finding themselves observing their own life rather than living it; that moment of reflection is captured here, coloured with the subtle flavours of Americana. Written years ago, we’re glad this poignant pause is now out in the world. Songwriter(s): Signe Marie Rustad Producer(s): Signe Marie Rustad, Kenneth Ishak Label: Die With Your Boots On Records Lyric: One bucket alone will just tease the dry well
	The Harmony by James Yorkston, Nina Persson & The Second Hand Orchestra This appropriately-titled love song revolves around the interweaving voices of Yorkston and Persson. With a palpable intimacy between the two, the song’s orchestration is a considerate companion, never overbearing in its presence. Songwriter(s): James Yorkston Producer(s): James Yorkston, Daniel Bengtsson, Kari-Jonas Winqvist Label: Domino Records Lyric: Here on the outskirts / life suits me
	Come And Find Me by Liela Moss Rich synth arpeggios and a pummelling beat swarm around the vocals. Are they the forces of collaboration and resistance, or the sound of obstacles that need to be removed? Either way, they’re a source of energy to be plugged into. Songwriter(s): Toby Butler, Liela Moss Producer(s): Toby Butler Label: Bella Union Lyric: This should be embodied dream space / should be free space, should be fair
	When The Wind Is Blowing by Nighttime Opening with a soothing guitar and detached Nico-esque singing, it’s those contrasting elements that make this such a compelling listen. As reality begins to fragment, the sonic medicine is a necessary precaution. Songwriter(s): Eva Louise Goodman Producer(s): Eva Louise Goodman and Rick Spataro Label: Ba Da Bing! Lyric: When you imagine what could be / instead of the reality
	To Your Eyes by Benji Tranter The lo-fi acoustics immediately conjure up thoughts of early Bon Iver before a voice from the Welsh Marshes adds a unique charm. With little room to hide, there’s comfort to be found in giving yourself over to Tranter and his lyrics. Songwriter(s): Benji Tranter Producer(s): Benji Tranter, Jovis Lane Label: Pear O’Legs Records Lyric: I want to be proud of my life and bring a little bit of light to your eyes
	Here We Go Again by Alex George Indie pop with a songwriting heart, a number of subtle elements combine to bring this track to life. The crisp guitar flourishes, subtle synths and general ebb and flow suggest this is the work of a master of their genre. Songwriter(s): Alexander George Henrich Producer(s): Alex George Label: ODDFATHER Lyric: Come back to me / I want your love it’s gonna set me free
	See, I’m Sorry by Seafret Aaron’s choice: “A deceptively simple three-and-a-half-minute pop anthem in the vein of Shawn Mendes. Commercially, the Yorkshire duo haven’t lived up to the expectations set by their 2015 debut album, but this song certainly deserves to be belted out on the biggest stages.” Songwriter(s): Cam Blackwood, Harry John Draper, Jack Sedman Producer(s): Harry Draper, Cam Blackwood Label: Nettwerk Music Group Lyric: I left you flowers outside your door / that night you said you couldn’t take anymore
	Believer by SYML Singer, songwriter and producer Brian Fennell has a voice that’s made for love songs. Tender yet powerful, it’s the perfect vessel to carry this message of falling completely and utterly at the feet of your partner. Songwriter(s): Brian Fennell Producer(s): Phil Ek, Brian Fennell Label: Nettwerk Music Group Lyric: Teach me like my father taught me how to live again
	Haunted By The Holy Ghost by Ryan Hamilton Starting with a riff straight out of The Darkness’ box of guitar tricks, this classic rock number provides the opportunity for Hamilton to exorcise his religious upbringing. The rest of us can sit back and enjoy this rollicking good time. Songwriter(s): Ryan Hamilton Producer(s): Dave Draper Label: Wicked Cool Records Lyric: That pain remains and it comes screaming out your mouth
	I Feel It by Cat Clyde With little more than a piano for company, the Canadian indie-folk artist is at her captivating best here. There’s poetry in both the lyrics and delivery that, like the company of the best storytellers, leaves you transfixed. Songwriter(s): Cat Clyde Producer(s): Cat Clyde, Strummer Jasson Label: Second Prize Records Lyric: Every time I cry you know it cleans me
	Martyr by Jake Huffman A euphoric energy is immediately apparent on this indie-rock anthem and its an energy that builds throughout. Credit for that goes to the huge backing vocals, pounding rhythm and a clear commitment to every word and note. Songwriter(s): Jake Huffman Producer(s): Jake Huffman Label: Groover Obsessions Lyric: He sounds like Bon Iver / soft-spoken tragedy
	February by Complete Mountain Almanac Evoking the spiritual searching of Clannad, this epic track swells and retreats as it veers between vulnerability and resilience. Rebekka Karijord, Jessica Dessner and brothers/The National bandmates Aaron and Bryce Dessner are on to a winner. Songwriter(s): Jessica Dessner, Rebekka Karijord Producer(s): Rebekka Karijord, Aaron Dessner, Bryce Dessner Label: Bella Union Lyric: She went to her great love without her body intact
	2009 by Pynch Lo-fi indie rock oozing with insouciant charm and tongue-in-cheek nostalgia, it’s no wonder the buzz is already growing for Pynch’s upcoming debut album. Fans of 00s pop culture will enjoy the many references dotted throughout. Songwriter(s): Spencer Enock Producer(s): Spencer Enock, Andy Ramsay Label: Chillburn Recordings Lyric: I’m gonna smoke a joint and drink Dr Pepper / like I did when I was a boy
	Same Old Story by En Attendant Ana There’s a thrilling looseness and sense of experimentation to this latest number from the Parisian quintet. A sprinkling of haywire jazz courtesy of Camille Frechou’s trumpet playing provides a playful contrast to Margaux Bouchadon’s controlled vocals. Songwriter(s): Adrien Pollon, Camille Fréchou, Margaux Bouchaudon, Maxence Tomasso, Vincent Hivert Producer(s): Vincent Hivert, Margaux Bouchaudon Label: Trouble In Mind Records Lyric: Like a good old song / when it’s lost it brings your feet back to the ground
	Family by Eric Bibb If you’re not familiar with the work of American blues musician Eric Bibb then we’d recommend spending a few days getting acquainted with his catalogue. For starters, enjoy this contemporary adaptation of the traditional folk song 900 Miles. Songwriter(s): Eric Bibb, Glen Scott Producer(s): Glen Scott Label: Repute Records Lyric: Someone making money by keeping us afraid
	Dream Machine by Otra The world of dream-pop really owes a significant debt to the synthesiser. Here, as commanded by sisters Laura Malhotra and Kara Malhotra, it’s able to communicate both bold fantasy and humdrum everyday. Songwriter(s): Kara Malhotra, Laura Malhotra, Otra Producer(s): Kara Malhotra, Laura Malhotra Label: Thirty Something Records Lyric: I wanna be able to fall asleep / without holding you in my mind
	Blue In The Face by The Zephyrs With its Byrdsian opening and the blood of Teenage Fanclub coursing through its veins, we can’t help but fall headlong for the latest gem from the Edinburgh veterans. Over 20 years in and they’re scaling new heights. Songwriter(s): Stuart Nicol Producer(s): Michael Brennan, The Zephyrs Label: Acuarela Lyric: You don’t love me and I’m not so fond of you
	Perfect by Moncrieff Listening to Perfect, it’s immediately apparent why both Elton John and Adele are fans of Moncrieff (Ireland’s Chris Breheny). Either of those legends would be proud to have a song this rousing up their sleeves. Songwriter(s): Aidan Halliday, Chris Moncrieff, Cian Ducrot, Conor O’Donohoe Producer(s): Aiden Halliday, Chris Moncrieff, Jens Schneider, Jules Kalmbacher Label: Energie/WM Germany Lyric: I tried my best but you let me down / loving you ruins me but I’ll stick around
	My Jeans by Kai Bosch Washed in a dreamy haze, it takes a while to penetrate the mist. Once you have though, you’re faced with the end of a relationship and the beginning of acceptance, all set to a seductive groove. Songwriter(s): Kai Bosch Producer(s): Kai Bosch, Danio Label: Cartoon Records Lyric: How does it feel to love someone until the feeling dies?
	Clouds by Marie Dahlstrom ft Delleile Ankrah Devin’s choice: “The soulful harmonies are so pleasing to the ear, and lyrically, it’s relatable for listeners with the theme of navigating barriers to figure out the next right step in your journey. I’ll definitely have the song on repeat for a while!” Songwriter(s): Daniel Adegugbe, Delleile Ankrah, Marie Dahlstrom Producer(s): Dan Diggas Label: JFH Records Lyric: Even when the table’s turning / I would never do you wrong
	Faces In The Firelight by Shana Cleveland Eschewing the garage rock of her band La Luz for an altogether calmer vibe, this tranquil love song is intensified with the help of a clever sprinkling of orchestration. Fans of Isobel Campbell will adore this. Songwriter(s): Shana Cleveland Producer(s): Shana Cleveland Label: Hardly Art Lyric: You are just a little light / exploding on all sides
	Your Internet Sucks by Ber There’s a pop nous at the heart of this punky kiss-off. An ode to the boy who broke Ber’s heart, the song builds and swells as the rancour amplifies. Finally coming to a halt, sometimes it’s good to get things off your chest. Songwriter(s): Berit Dybing, Bradley Hale, Landon Conrath Producer(s): Now, Landon Conrath Label: AWAL Lyrics: And don’t forget the times you’d text your ex when we were still in bed
	Sometimes It’s So Easy by Doug Paisley The Canadian songwriter returns here with a country toe-tapper and a wordless chorus that will stay in your head long after the track has finished. It just goes to show what can be done with a magic melody. Songwriter(s): Doug Paisley Producer(s): Afie Jurvanen Label: Outside Music Lyric: Sometimes it’s so easy to move on/not caring where you’re going
	Reelin’ by Matt Corby Seriously smooth backing vocals, a patrolling bass line, horns that enter the conversation like a welcome old friend… the full list of ingredients that combine to make this rich R&B broth are too many to mention. Songwriter(s): Chris Collins, Matt Corby, Nat Dunn Producer(s): Matt Corby, Chris Collins, Nat Dunn Label: Communion Records Lyric: If we eliminate our core expressions / do we just kiss goodbye all good intentions?
	Points Of View by Hotel Lux As bass and guitar runs careen and collide, with added cartoon synths for good measure, and Lewis Duffin delivers his impassioned vocals, it’s easy to see why this Portsmouth/London post-punk outfit are so hotly tipped. Songwriter(s): Cameron Sims, Craig McVicar, Lewis Duffin, Max Oliver, Sam Coburn Producer(s): Bill Ryder-Jones Label: The state51 Conspiracy Lyric: Could you tell a tale of a tale untold / and illustrate all the dirty truths
	Miss Missing You by Billy Lockett The opening rhythm might put you in a relaxed mood but it can’t quite prepare you for Lockett’s crystalline voice. This soulful pop ballad is the perfect playground through which he can slide, swing and scale the heights. Songwriter(s): Billy Lockett, Danny Connors Producer(s): Barnaby Cox Label: Photo Finish Records Lyric: And I should’ve put a ring on it / should’ve listened to Beyoncé
	Skipping Stone by Neomi Whether sitting calmly on the shore, skimming across the water or making a splash whose ripples can be felt far and wide, this atmospheric folk-pop number goes on quite the journey before sinking to the bottom of its brooding lake. Songwriter(s): Jesse Koch, Neomi Speelman Producer(s): Jesse Koch Label: [PIAS] Recordings Lyric: How can I be your love if you don’t wanna hold me?
	When You Hear Joni by Gina Naomi Baez We all have those artists/songs that, through painful association, become too difficult to listen to. Though ostensibly a Christmas song (those sleigh bells are undeniable) the message here transcends the festive season. Songwriter(s): Gina Naomi Baez, Meghan Kabir Producer(s): Jessica Karpov Label: Independent Lyric: I’m the song you can’t escape / there’s no river to skate away on
	Breaking Up by Bnny The Chicago-based quintet led by Jessica Viscius settle into a twilight groove on this meditative reflection. The up-close guitar sound helps convey a sense of eavesdropping on the most private of thoughts. Songwriter(s): Jessica Viscius Producer(s): Dave Vettraino Label: Fire Talk Lyrics: I’m looking at photos / remembering when
	Manifest* by Ben Gregory A stream-of-consciousness tumbles out from Ben Gregory like a memory rewriting itself with each passing second. Then comes the bright 80s chorus, like a widely flung window that lets the fresh air in. Songwriter(s): Ben Gregory Producer(s): Blaine Harrison, Ben Gregory Label: Transgressive Lyric: Been shaving wrong my whole life / you asked if my father didn’t raise me right
	Lain (phone clone) by Miss Grit A soul torn between their physical self and the limitless potential of their online existence, this tussle is brought to life through clashing electronics, an insistent beat, and the intermittent cries of an anguished guitar. Songwriter(s): Margaret Sohn Producer(s): Margaret Sohn Label: Mute Lyrics: Hold up your hands if you want your memories back
	Neighbours by King No-One The balance between energetic attack and melodic mastery is just right on a song that’s a serious throwback to the kind of indie-punk that dominated the early/mid-00s. It’s a riot and we love it. Songwriter(s): James Basile, Joseph Martin, Robert Gration, Zach Thomas Lount Producer(s): Gavin Monaghan Label: The Den Lyrics: It’s Halloween again tonight / So let’s get outrageous, sorry neighbours
	Our Time by Roo Panes From its opening note, the intricate guitar playing enchants as it weaves its way around Roo Panes‘ equally alluring voice. It’s the kind of song that captures your heart, takes your breath away and leaves you a changed person. Songwriter(s): Andrew Panes Producer(s): Ross Dorkin Label: Leafy Outlook Lyric: 33 years on this planet / don’t think I’ll ever understand it
	Harsh Light by Gena Rose Bruce Duncan’s choice: “Listening to the bass and guitar interplay on this bouncy gem transports me to the rooftop of 3 Savile Row on a cold January day in 1969. Gena Rose Bruce does an admirable job of fronting the Fab Four. It’s nice up here!” Songwriter(s): Gena Rose Bruce, Tim Harvey Producer(s): Tim Harvey Label: Dot Dash Recordings Lyric: Cos there’s always a song to remind us of the very first night we fell in love
	I’ll Never by Blanco Brown Co-written with Keith Justice and Allen Arthur, the romance is turned up to 11 on this classic country ballad. Even the laps teel and fiddle feel like a giant embrace from the love of your life. Songwriter(s): Allen Arthur, Blanco Brown, Keith Justice Producer(s): Bizkit & Butta, Blanco Brown Label: Wheelhouse Records Lyric: You remind me I’m the luckiest man / and this is all God’s plan
	Shortcut To Waco by Nate Fredrick & The Wholesome Boys Nashville-based singer-songwriter Nate Fredrick has himself a new band, a gang of fellow musicians committed to bringing stories to life. Here, they take us on a stirring journey through central Texas. Songwriter(s): Jon Decious, Nate Fredrick Producer(s): David Dorn Label: Queue Records Lyric: You scream, I scream, we all scream sometime / to keep from going insane
	No Kind Of Fire by Half Gringa It’s perhaps appropriate that this rumination on family, trauma and forgiveness took a decade to find the finish line. There’s something shamanic about the frank delivery and brutal drums. Songwriter(s): Isabel Cristina Olive Producer(s): Nicholas Papaleo Label: Independent Lyric: If you try to throw us out in the street / I guess that might make me feel better
	Over You/Over Me by M.Byrd The snakes mentioned in this song’s opening lyrics did actually visit M Byrd in his sleep one night. Embraced as a symbol of change, they provide the impetus for this propulsive indie-rock track. Songwriter(s): Andre Albrecht, Eugen Koop, Maximilian Barth, Martin Baumgartner Producer(s): Eugen Koop Label: Nettwerk Music Group Lyric: I‘ve been dreaming of a dozen snakes in my bedroom / guess I let them stay

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