His music is the product of trusting his ear and his creative vision alike, telling stories in his own interesting way. This is an attribute I am always drawn to in an artist, especially in a genre such as folk. The intimacy of each tale sat alongside his experimental recording techniques make for a unique listening experience, reminiscent of autumn in the countryside.
Nostalgic and sweet-sounding, ‘Seagull Beach’ is a song about “superstitions, and imagery that brings us strength, hope and a will to carry on”. Based in the North, Good Good Blood (also known as James Smith) uses his lyricism to remind us that beauty is everywhere, and that there is happiness in the recognition of this beauty. “The red breast of a robin, the kindness and joy of a rainbow, seagulls swarming on a beach; these types of things often remind me of the beauty that surrounds us and how lucky we are to be here, even when we don’t always feel it.”
Good Good Blood has honoured his folk influences like Bon Iver and Alex G whilst carving his very own path in the industry, and has formed a reputation “for beautiful, affecting and honest songwriting”. With the use of found sound, he sprinkles everyday noises into his music such as birds singing and children playing for a wholesome, grounded and atmospheric experience. Like magic, he conjures up songs from his minimal, lo-fi recording set up and blesses the ears of whoever is lucky enough to come across his work.
Listen here:
Sophie & Songs works through heartache and betrayal with her healing ballad ‘Love Betrayed Me’, all about unrequited love and the subsequent anger that follows. This song speaks to the part of us that continues to love in spite of the reciprocity we receive, and the emotions that coincide with this situation.
As an acoustic folk singer/songwriter, Sophie is no stranger to storytelling as she takes pleasure in reading, learning and making music. She states that she writes out of personal experience, providing an authentic listening experience whilst guiding herself through difficult emotions. She believes that nothing expresses feelings like a live performance, and she takes every opportunity she can to perform on stage.
Sophie says;
“That connection between audience and performer is unique and something I cherish.”
‘Love Betrayed Me’ is the perfect ‘break-up song’, and definitely one that I’ll have on repeat consistently!
Listen here:
Find out more: https://www.instagram.com/sophieandsongs
