Tag: Dean Antoni

Dean Antoni – The DF

“The DF” by Dean Antoni is a thoughtful and emotionally resonant track that blends introspection with a gentle sense of movement. Rooted in a modern singer-songwriter style, the instrumentation creates a warm and steady backdrop for the story being told. Soft guitar or piano lines sit beneath subtle atmospheric layers, giving the song an open, spacious feel that allows the emotion to come through clearly without ever becoming overwhelming.

The lyrics focus on recovery from addiction, adding even more depth to the track. Antoni’s vocal delivery carries a sense of vulnerability and honesty, as if he’s working through the lingering weight of past struggles. There’s a bittersweet tone in his voice—reflecting the pain of what he’s been through, but also the cautious hope of moving forward. The pacing is unhurried, allowing each line to settle and providing space for the emotional gravity of the subject matter. Subtle harmonies and gentle rises in the arrangement highlight moments of reflection, strength, and uncertainty. The track ultimately feels like a quiet statement of resilience. It captures the complicated process of healing—acknowledging the darkness while still choosing to grow beyond it.

The lyrics focus on recovery from addiction, adding even more depth to the track. Antoni’s vocal delivery carries a sense of vulnerability and honesty, as if he’s working through the lingering weight of past struggles. There’s a bittersweet tone in his voice—reflecting the pain of what he’s been through, but also the cautious hope of moving forward. The pacing is unhurried, allowing each line to settle and providing space for the emotional gravity of the subject matter. Subtle harmonies and gentle rises in the arrangement highlight moments of reflection, strength, and uncertainty. The track ultimately feels like a quiet statement of resilience. It captures the complicated process of healing—acknowledging the darkness while still choosing to grow beyond it.

www.instagram.com/simonwalkermusic

Carol Hodge – Small Crumbs

Carol not only plays in many other bands but tours solo with just her and her piano (a powerhouse duet). Carol was born with only seven fingers and yet defies all with her empowering music. Alongside her band, they write songs that tackle challenging topics like mental health. The Carol Hodge Band are a joyous and feisty Alternative Rock four piece (drums, bass, guitar, keys), who were recently described by Classic Rock magazine as “”combin(ing) fat, fuzzy guitar grooves with splashes of synths…clever proggy pop rock bursts and almost Alice In Chains-y shadows…eccentric and unpredictable, in a way that feels totally natural.”” They are confirmed for quite a few festivals in 2026, including: Bearded Theory, Rebellion Punk Festival, Ey Up Mi Duck and Nah Then.

Their song ‘Small Crumbs’ is about not accepting the crumbs of life and searching for the self-confidence to expect more. Thick, heavy bass opening sets the vibe for the track from the very first note. As well as this, the strong female vocals are empowering to the listeners and emphasise the theme of the track beautifully. The lyricism uses metaphors to inspire their listeners not to accept less than they are worth.

https://instagram.com/carolxhodge

The First Ones – Reverie

The First Ones are made up of brothers Doug and Dan, along with their lifelong friend Will, who have been writing together for six years. As a band, they’re known for their blend of pacy metal, catchy riffs, and melodic harmonies, creating a sound that’s both intense and memorable. Their dark, prog-inspired energy has a way of drawing listeners in, leaving them mesmerised and always wanting more.

Reverie is an alternative rock track that explores the delicate tension between reality and illusion, capturing the feeling of drifting in and out of clarity as the mind wanders between what’s real and what’s imagined. The lyrics describe how it can be hard to escape your own mind at times, and how we sometimes need support from others to help us face those inner struggles. The result is a track that feels emotionally honest while still carrying the band’s signature power and atmosphere.

Find out more: https://www.instagram.com/thefirstonesband