Last month alt. country, indie-folk artist Helen Shanahan released her new album, 'Every Little Sting'.
Recorded and produced in Nashville, the perfect place to hone her country-inspired catalogue, 'Every Little Sting' was recorded with producer Brad Jones (Missy Higgins, Bob Evans), and features the adept skills of drummer Jason Cheek, string player and arranger Chris Carmichael (Taylor Swift, Buddy Guy, Jessica Mauboy) and Helen’s husband Matt Allen and the Grammy-nominated Kim Richey on backing vocals.
Helen reflects on the process and the themes explored in 'Every Little Sting'. "The calibre of the musicians in Nashville was out of this world, I felt lucky to even be in the same room most of the time.
"The main theme that runs through the album is having anxiety and being more sensitive to issues that arise in daily life," the Perth musician says.
"The title track is a good summation of the album that I feel everything strongly, which is a blessing and a curse as it has been the inspiration for many of my songs, but at the same time has been a hard thing to deal with."
Helen shares 5 indie-folk artists you should keep an ear/ eye out for.
Angharad Drake (QLD)
It sums up why I love Angharard’s music perfectly on her website: '(Ang-ha-rad) combines gentle folk melodies with insightful lyrics, reminiscent of artists like Laura Marling and Joni Mitchell.' How can you go past someone who is able to draw from those two amazing artists to create her own, unique style? Her lyrics are poetic and her singing style is pure and honest.
Dan Parsons (VIC)
I was lucky to co-write with Dan on a song for my debut album and I was so honoured to be working with such a thoughtful and talented writer. Dan has moments where I hear James Taylor and Ryan Adams coming through, and he is a talented multi-instrumentalist. You won’t regret listening to his tunes.
Christopher Coleman (TAS)
Christopher Coleman has a way of luring in the listener with his unique lyrics and strong melodies. His character always shines through and is a consummate storyteller. I would definitely recommend you listen to ‘Stages Of Love’ written by his Dad, sung by Chris.
Loren Kate (SA)
Loren Kate is one of the most humble and down to earth singer-songwriters I have met. Her gentle melodies tug on your heart-strings and she is a warm and engaging performer. I love her song ‘Silver And Gold’.
Simone & Girlfunkle (WA)
These guys are a regular hit around the Perth music scene and absolutely blow me away with their perfect harmonies and their eclectic mix of instruments. I love how they can create intimate moments with the crowd, but also get them up and dancing folk style.
