motel void

This time, we’re heading to New York twice — and once to Canada. And there’s going to be a lot more folk in the mix!

DEVIN SHAFFER – ANYONE

New York–based musician Devin Shaffer is releasing her new album Patience this November, and judging by the first singles – Anyone and I Guess I’m Crawling – it’s shaping up to be one of the most captivating folk releases of the fall.

I’m especially excited because I’m a huge fan of artists like Linda Perhacs and Sibylle Baier, and Devin’s music feels deeply connected to that same timeless spirit. Very few artists can do what she does – creating something powerful and affecting with nothing more than a voice and a subtle, calm instrumental background.

Yet Anyone sounds completely modern – like music from 2025 that draws from the very best of the past. The result is truly mesmerizing and beautiful.

PROM NIGHT MASSACRE – BELIEVER

We’re staying in North America, but heading north from New York to Toronto, where 26-year-old musician Vincent creates music under the name Prom Night Massacre.

“I’ve been making music for over 10 years, releasing hundreds of songs under a variety of different pseudonyms across the internet. I love to make stuff and will never stop,” Vincent says – and instantly comes across as someone you can’t help but like.

His new single believer carries a bit of Feeble Little Horse’s noisy charm (that great distortion!) but also something of early Alex G — that warm, intimate lo-fi bedroom feel, packed with both emotion and catchiness. I sincerely hope Prom Night Massacre never stops, because this music is just wonderful.

ZAHRA – BLOOM

Finally, we’re back in New York State — this time in Rochester — where multi-instrumentalist and songwriter Zahra crafts music that feels hypnotic and emotionally rich.

Experimenting with layered vocals, textured instrumentation, and melodic repetition, Zahra builds songs that pull you in slowly. Bloom revolves around a simple acoustic riff that carries the track forward, while vocal harmonies and subtle effects intertwine to create a mesmerizing soundscape.

Around the halfway mark, the song shifts – percussion enters, and an almost ambient atmosphere begins to bloom, leading to a gentle yet powerful finale. A beautifully melancholic piece, perfect for more reflective listeners.