Stonehocker‘s latest single, “In Need,” explores the raw, emotional journey of realizing one’s need for a higher power. The song is an introspective reflection on the lows that come with struggling against the challenges of life and the self-awareness that emerges from surrender. A blend of motivational alternative rock with a light, meditative tone, “In Need” is a powerful reminder of the peace and hope that comes when we let go of the need for control.

The track is the third and final release before Stonehocker‘s highly anticipated upcoming album. It embodies the themes that run throughout the record: acknowledging one’s struggles, finding a greater purpose, and surrendering to the process. “In Need” builds on Stonehocker‘s deeply personal songwriting, drawing from his own battles and ultimate surrender to a higher power.

What was the inspiration behind this video (visuals, storyline, etc.)? 

The story in the video is fictional, about a musician and his small team doing a road trip to a show.  I say fictional because the actor playing the manager is actually the drummer on the album; they’re both friends helping out with my crazy production ideas.  Either way, the point of the video is that despite those people trying to help the artist they eventually let him down as a result of their own personal issues.  The sly, little hidden easter egg is the photo inside the van, attached to the wall behind the assistant.  It’s a photo of Jesus, suggesting Jesus is all the artist can rely on.

I call it an easter egg because it’s the same photo (albeit a little larger) that I’m holding in my previous video for “I Am Divided”.  In that video I sing about how “I’m looking for someone” while holding this picture of Jesus, but I never actually focus any shots on the photo because the song doesn’t talk about finding that someone.

What was the process of making this video?

The whole process starts with me brainstorming and then creating a story board.  I always like to give Greg Miller the credit for any good-looking shots because he has a great eye for a great shot; which is precisely why I get him to be the cameraman!  Greg Miller is not only the cameraman, but also the owner of the classic Ford van we used; so a big thank you to him!  Greg and I actually did the first day of filming with just the two of us driving around town.  We used his drone for some shots while I drove.  All the other shots (in all my videos) are filmed on my Samsung phone using a DJI gimbal, then I edit them all using a program called VideoPad by NCH software.

The second day of shooting was the hard one to coordinate because it involved more people.  I was trying to decide whether to shoot the video with the van actually driving or try to setup in a garage and fake it (driving would require another person too).  Alas, the van developed a coolant leak so we were forced to shoot the interior shots inside the garage.  Greg had one foot on the wall while holding the camera so he could shake the van and make it look like we’re driving!  For the final shots where it was just me playing guitar you may have noticed the lighting constantly changing, this is Jeff swinging our lighting around behind Greg while he films!  The story board helps everyone see the final vision, although it is hard being the director while also acting in it.

The videos all come together thanks to people helping me out.  I keep learning new little tricks and gaining more experience with each video I make, much like how I’ve learned about writing music.  I’m glad people are enjoying them!

Some stories are written on familiar pages, but Gavin Holligan’s narrative unfolds across entirely different chapters. From the roar of Premier League stadiums to the intimate setting of a live music stage, Holligan has charted a course defined by bold choices and relentless creativity. His journey—from professional footballer to celebrated musician—is as inspiring as the music he now creates, weaving together threads of reinvention, resilience, and emotional resonance.

In the late 1990s, Holligan was living a dream that most young athletes only fantasize about. Signed to West Ham United, his football career was on a meteoric rise, debuting at Anfield Stadium against Liverpool FC. Yet, while fans saw a promising footballer, Holligan himself felt a pull toward a different calling. Even amid the chants of adoring fans, music had always been his sanctuary—a space where his true voice could emerge.

The transition from football to music wasn’t instantaneous, nor was it easy. Holligan spent years honing his craft as a background vocalist and keyboardist, performing with legends like Stevie Wonder, Jocelyn Brown, Gloria Gaynor, and Duffy. This period offered him invaluable experience, exposing him to the complexities of the music industry and the transformative power of live performance. However, as Holligan worked tirelessly in support of others, he began to feel a growing desire to step forward as a solo artist.

Determined to find his voice, Holligan created Brownhouse Studios, a space where he could experiment with sound, write freely, and develop his unique musical identity. In 2008, he released “Brighter Day,” a single that garnered the attention of BBC’s Introducing series. The song was more than a debut—it was a declaration of intent, signaling his arrival as a songwriter and performer with something meaningful to say.

This momentum continued with his EP, “Faith to Fly,” a body of work that blended his musical influences—ranging from soul and gospel to rock and funk. Tracks from the EP showcased Holligan’s talent for storytelling, offering listeners an authentic window into his experiences. His energetic guitar riffs, intricate vocal arrangements, and deeply personal lyrics set him apart from the cookie-cutter mold of many contemporary artists.

Holligan’s passion for collaboration and community soon found expression in Chemistry, a monthly showcase he founded to support emerging talent. The event became a cornerstone of the independent music scene, attracting both budding artists and established names like Katy B and Shola Ama. Through Chemistry, Holligan built a platform not only for others but also for himself, gaining recognition as both an artist and a mentor.

In 2023, Holligan returned with “Just Passing Through (Live Version),” a track that perfectly encapsulates his growth as a musician. Recorded in an intimate setting, the live version strips away the gloss of studio production, revealing the raw emotion at the heart of his artistry. The song’s themes—reflecting on life’s fleeting moments and cherishing its connections—resonate deeply, particularly in an age when authenticity is often overshadowed by artifice.

For Holligan, music is more than a career; it’s a vehicle for self-expression and connection. His performances are imbued with the same energy and determination that once propelled him across football fields, but now they’re directed toward creating moments of shared humanity with his audiences.

As he continues to write, perform, and inspire, Gavin Holligan’s story serves as a powerful reminder that life is rarely a straight line. It’s a journey of discovery, adaptation, and courage. Whether you first knew him as a footballer or are just discovering his music, one thing is clear: Holligan is far from just passing through. He’s here to stay, making his mark as an artist who refuses to be defined by a single chapter of his extraordinary life.

The title track of Tristan Armstrong’s forthcoming album (available early 2025 on Littleknown Records), “The Lonely Avenue,” is a cathartic release of rock-and-roll energy inspired by the dualities of urban life and a longing for home. Written during his early days in Toronto after moving from Vancouver Island, the song melds raucous rhythms with an undercurrent of melancholy, creating a dynamic sound that captures the bittersweet transition of leaving behind the familiar to chase a dream.

Rooted in rock, indie, and roots traditions, “The Lonely Avenue” showcases Armstrong’s signature guitar-driven aesthetic, blending a Queens of the Stone Age-inspired groove with vintage rock-and-roll swagger. Produced in part at Lincoln County Social Club with John Dinsmore and recorded in Armstrong’s Toronto basement studio, the track features lush mellotron strings and chugging guitars that evoke both grit and nostalgia.

I wanted this track to be a good time – a release of rock-and-roll abandon that’s cathartic for me and fun for listeners. “The Lonely Avenue” captures the energy of urban life and the yearning for something deeper. – Tristan Armstrong

Meggi Faye’s latest single, “Moon & Back,” is a moving ode to unconditional love. Inspired by her bond with her daughter, Faye crafts an emotional journey through the stages of a child’s life – from infancy to adulthood. With her signature alternative folk sound, Faye’s heartfelt lyrics and acoustic melodies deliver a universal message of devotion and vulnerability.

Known for her captivating voice and raw storytelling, Faye blends nostalgic and contemporary tones reminiscent of influences like Kathleen Edwards and Jenn Grant. Her ability to write from a place of honesty shines in “Moon & Back,” creating a deeply resonant listening experience.

“Moon & Back” highlights the universal struggles and joys of parenthood. Anchored by a stunning violin arrangement and ambient lead guitar, the song’s delicate instrumentation mirrors its poignant lyrics.

This song didn’t stand out to me at first, but after sharing it with my friend Justin Latam, his encouragement convinced me to refine and perform it. I started including it in my shows, and the response was overwhelming. Seeing how much it resonates with others has been truly rewarding.

– Meggi Faye

Robert Thomas and the sessionmen invite listeners to embrace the simple joys of the season with their new single, “Little Things.” Drawing on folk, Americana roots, and the timeless warmth of Christmas music, the song is a heartfelt reflection on the small, meaningful moments that make the holidays truly special. Whether it’s the crunch of fresh snow underfoot, the joy of watching children by the Christmas tree, or the gratitude for a loved one, “Little Things” captures the magic of the season with a nostalgic and intimate touch.

Known for his storytelling prowess and evocative songwriting, Robert Thomas’s voice shines as he delivers this uplifting track. Joined by his talented acoustic duo, the sessionmen – Ray Legere and Jon Arsenault – the song melds East Coast traditional folk with the warmth of Appalachian-inspired arrangements.

With “Little Things,” I wanted to express the simple joy of Christmas. The song is about capturing the feeling of being joyful and carefree because of the small things we often overlook – and it’s also a way to express my gratitude to my partner for bringing me so much of that joy, especially at Christmas. – Robert Thomas