Izzi Dunn: Visions

Recently I was sent a copy of Izzi Dunn's upcoming E.P. "Visions"; a compilation of four soulful, heart-wrenching and yet surprisingly slick songs. A wonderful cellist, and softly-sung artist too, the stripped-back mini-album may be raising the sophisticated side of my musical palate a little, but I'm really enjoying it. Take a listen to the above track, and make sure to put her EP on your late Christmas wishlists; it doesn't come out until 21st January 2013.

Although her website doesn't seem to be up and running, you can find out more at her MySpace here.

The Voluntary Butler Scheme: Brain Freeze

They may be a brand-new discovery to me, but after seeing them live last week, I've found their pretty successful back-catalogue too! Their latest release, Brain Freeze, is as colourful as the rest, and with an amazing array of instruments (and of course, talented players), they're worth giving some of your time to. Especially when most of the Top 40's music is made by computers and auto-tune (not a cynic or anything). Listen to more at their website here or head on over to my YouTube channel, I went on a little Voluntary Butler Scheme favouriting spree...

Matt Corby: Brother

After being sent this beautiful, beautiful single at the Magazine HQ (ahoo-hah, excuse me if I make it sound a little more posh than it is...), I couldn't help featuring it on my personal music blogosphere too. The whole husky roar of his voice really qualifies the emotions in the song! I can't stop playing it. So here it is for all you folk too.

For more on the Australian wonder that is Matt Corby, head to his website: mattcorby.com

... And for more on the magazine I run, (a shameless plug, but worth it none the less), head to: iastonmagazine.co.uk

Dear James Acaster

Dear James Acaster,

Your audience tonight at our Student's Union may have not been your kindest, but I have to admit I was shaking with silent laughter the whole way through. Perhaps not the best thing for a stand-up comedian, but you were great.

I would love to shrive with you sometime (and unashamedly eat a socially-unacceptable amount of pancakes instead of crepes). Though Twister is off the menu. As is rock pooling, and asking for your autograph on my neck.

Yours,

Besma x

Rae Morris: Grow

Like a beautiful, curly-haired cross between Daughter's melancholia and Lucy Rose's cuteness, Rae Morris is a tiny, shy and amazingly talented young singer who deserves everyone's attention (although perhaps not all at once, for reasons I will elaborate). To have been present at her first sell-out gig, and to have run half-a-mile just to see her play one song, I feel like vying to be her number one fan, and yet I also want her to be kept out of the limelight a little longer so that those who discover her music - voice, piano and all - will really feel like they have stumbled upon rare treasure. Good luck, lovely Rae.