Steph Gold – COME HOME
Marlon Brando was probably right. None of the things that he did to earn a living was all that unique. All of the acting that made him into a rich man and a superstar could’ve been done by someone else. Of course, he was correct when he said that all people are actors in their own way, all doing their best to pretend in order to get what they want.
Most of the time, most of the things that we talk or fret about aren’t very important. We all know that, but we keep going in this way as a kind of ritual. But what about the things that actually matter? What about love, loss, hope, or despair? Those ideas are harder to articulate. Those can bring those emotions to life; they are the ones who become celebrated.
They’re rarities, of course. So is Steph Gold’s vocal ability. On “Come Home,” the German singer embraces modern indie-pop along with a soulful, retro production and singing style to tell the truth about yearning, desire, and the sadness of living without these things. Sure, a lot of people can sing or even act like they understand these feelings. Steph Gold, however, has got a rare ability to inject real emotion into her work.
Jonathan Gentry – Winding Path
It’s hard not to trust someone who has got a guitar strapped around their shoulders. There’s just something about holding something that can conceivably create so much power that makes the majority of us, at least, trustful. It’s as if you’re taking advice from some mythological being that can throw lightning bolts from the sky with one hand and catch them with the other.
And, sure, rock musicians have exploited this power for a very long time. It’s no coincidence that some of the most famous singers, many of whom don’t play an instrument, routinely grab a guitar when performing live. But once you’re given this kind of power, you best have something to say.
Jonathan Gentry would like to tell you that, if you believe hard enough in yourself, things may well turn out alright. “Winding Path” is here to announce that there’s nothing wrong in trying to lead a life of happiness and fulfilment. Musically, Gentry relies on Springsteen-like optimism and The War on Drugs-type hypnotic, desert sounds. Hope’s round the corner, right about the time of the next chorus.
