Rarely have I come across a record company independent or otherwise that has shown such consistency in the quality of artists that they promote..... step up and take a much deserved bow Director of Folkstock Arts Foundation Helen Meissener . I've just had the pleasure of listening to Roxanne de Bastion who is about to release a double A-side single on the 28th July taken from her self-released Album Heirlooms & Hearsay. Before a musical note had left the laptop speakers I was already intrigued by her promo photos & an Audrey Hepburn vibe, they spoke of mystery and stories to be told and I was eager to hear them.
First up, Heart of stone that begins "I woke up feeling old" ....yup! I was sold, a lyrically beautiful song that I'm sure many will relate to? She describes it as a song about "overcoming or repentance, to wash your hands clean and start anew, to let go of those dark thoughts and memories that weigh us down"
There's a childlike truth about Bastions vocals & video that make me believe that she has lived what she is sharing with us & I'm reluctant to move on & leave the track behind, but knowing I could come back to it made it easier to hit play on the next track.
And so "The Painter" Begins, a track co written with friend Thom Morecroft ,and it's ambiance paints a picture of bare feet and daisy chain headdresses as I'm transported to a 60's psychedelia festival , the track floats along with yet more clever lyrics and a harmonium played by Roxanne herself that belonged to 80's Electronic pop star Howard Jones although she says she didn't realize it at the time.
The soon to be released double A single had left me wanting more, so I went in search of the album only to find an array of similarly stunning tracks, like the hauntingly "Thicker skin" intensified by the ebb of a beautifully played cello. So who is Roxanne de Bastion?
Born in Berlin she started writing and performing at the age of 15 and soon after leaving school armed with a guitar and one way ticket she headed for London and hasn't looked back since, as an opening act for artists such as Martha Wainwright ( Daughter of Louden Wainwright) & Ricky Ross (Lead singer with Deacon Blue) in the USA & performing across Europe in her own right she's been one busy woman and there's no doubting its about to get a whole lot busier with the new release. She has already been chosen as UK support act for USA artist Lambchop with ten dates from 8th to the 18th August & she'll also be performing to the crowds at Cambridge Folk Festival on Saturday 29th July at 2.30.
One to catch live for sure and exciting times ahead. Don't forget to download the single on the 28th July & Follow her on Twitter @Roxannemusic ,Facebook & check out her website If you like listening to good Music then please share and show them your support.
