Week 1: 31.12.2023 - 06.01.2024
A snapshot of the major music releases for the week.
Hi Pal,
Happy new year, again! Fresh on the Shelf is a new content series that I started to highlight weekly releases. Links are embedded in the titles.
Within Our Midst — Simon Wester
Ambient (Single)
Even amongst the many incredible talents in the Christian ambient scene, Simon Wester remains one of the most soothing creators I’ve had the privilege of listening to.
His Eye Is On The Sparrow — Jess Ray
Indie Worship (Single)
We stepped into 2024 and Jess Ray welcomed us with the announcement of a new project called MATIN. This is the first single off it and if this is an indication of what is to come, then we have an engaging indie worship project to look forward to.
real — Karissa Frampton
Alternative Pop (Single)
Karissa Frampton’s 2023 album ruined me — in the best way — and she’s back again this year to do it all over again. I’m not quite emotionally prepared for a new album, but I’m looking forward to more songs from her this year.
Romans 8 — Poor Bishop Hooper
Folk, Singer-songwriter (Single)
Few artists make music inspired by scripture on the level of consistency and originality that this duo have. It’s such an honour to hear what they produce every time.
Romans 12:1-2 — Verses, Jonathan Allen Wright
Indie (Single)
If there’s anyone that rivals the previous artist in the scripture-inspired music department, it’s this project. This collaboration with JAW is everything I’d hoped it would be.
Psalm 103:20-22 — Verses, Jenny & Tyler
Folk (Single)
Two for Two by Verses makes 2024 feel like a special year already. Jenny & Tyler, as with other featured artists, really bring their unique qualities to this wonderful Psalm.
Homeful — JOURNEYGLO
Folk (Single)
Slowly but surely, Gloria Lee (aka JOURNEYGLO) is becoming a voice that I can’t get enough of. Her lyricism and songwriting have been a breath of fresh air for me in recent times.
Gotta Look Up — Kelsey J
Indie Pop (Single)
Kelsey J started this year with a song of encouragement for all those who are willing to listen. I love the production and instrumentation of the tune as it accentuates the vocal to create a fun, easy-listening atmosphere.
I Just Want To (Civilized Creature Remix) — Christian Singleton, Civilized Creature
Trip-hop, Electronica (Single)
A remix of one of my favourite singles of last year, bringing together two of my favourite artists. I hope that these two collaborate on more projects in future.
Countless Ways (Live) — Jonathan Allen Wright, Portwater Worship
Indie Worship (Single)
This made me extremely curious about what a Jonathan Allen Wright live album would sound like. It’s a heartfelt declaration of trust in God and I want more.
You Don’t Have To Feel So Lonely — Adryelle
Synthpop (Single)
I think we are long overdue for an Adryelle album and this new single only makes me more desperate for one.
When Words Fall Short 2.0 (Instrumental) — Ri-An
Acoustic, Nu-Jazz, Lofi (EP)
Ri-An is one of the R&B artists that I came to love back in 2022. However, these instrumental projects have taken me by surprise since last year. Part I was incredible and this is a great follow-up.
I love you all the more. — Jimmy Clifton
Indie Folk (Album)
Start as you mean to go on feels appropriate for this moment. As my first album of 2024, this one has me pumped for the rest of the year. Jimmy Clifton’s consistency continues to amaze me.
That’s it for today.
Catch you at the next one!
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stismavo@gmail.com