Coming from Shropshire and now based in London, Andy Smythe has spent over two decades sharing his musical gift as a classic songwriter. Drawing inspiration from folk legends like Donovan and Nick Drake, Andy has become a staple of London folk music scene while his studio releases have connected with a global audience, blending originality with authenticity in a way that speaks directly to the heart.
His talent for storytelling through his songwriting has seen him craft truly cherished musical works that filter thematically relevant contexts through a timeless sound that flows from delicate folk to indie rock. His lyrical flair has earned deserved comparisons to the poetic stylings of Leonard Cohen and Walt Whitman. This ability to create compelling tales has resulted in a loyal following and high praise from industry veterans, including Mike Scott of The Waterboys.
Since debuting his sound in 2022 with the record Love Unspoken, Andy has built an impressive catalogue of music across several albums. His most recent LP, the critically acclaimed Poetry in Exile, offered a dark and reflective examination of the post-Covid world, brought to life on stage with his band that features a host of talented musicians.
Bringing us his latest release, he shares his brand new single titled “Love Ain’t Free,” an uptempo indie folk jam penned to address a timely and poignant issue; the right of young people in the UK to fall in love with and marry EU citizens without facing undue financial prejudice. Brought in by the taps of percussion, the arrangement bursts to life with bright violin leads dancing above an uptempo drum beat and acoustic guitars rhythms.
Andy’s graceful vocals ring out above the buoyant instrumentation to lay down profound lyrics via engaging melodies, resulting in a catchy sound that’s both heartwarming and energising. With stunning lead violin flourishes and warm sax tones, the colourful backing allows for Andy’s compelling voice to soar above to craft an anthemic sound of dazzling alternative folk music.
Once again applying his songwriting talent to a meaningful subject, “Love Ain’t Free” offers an enjoyable listening experience with a through-provoking theme. As Andy and his band play a packed schedule of live shows around London as well as share his music with the wider world via a prolific string of releases, Andy Smythe continues to impress with each move.
Listen to Love Ain’t Free below
More from Music
New music from Serge & The Currents
Melbourne-based musician Sergio Ercole has spent more than four decades building a life around the guitar, moving between classical and …
IRONA releases new single “Marble White”
From New York to London, IRONA is an Istanbul-based artist whose music takes inspiration from a sense of place while …
Shumo AG releases brand new single
Australian singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Shumo AG is developing a musical world that stretches far beyond his young age. Balancing school …
