23 Fields – You’re Alright (2025)

Self-described as “…a bunch of middle-aged musicians trying to break out”, 23 Fields intricately wrap the knowledge they’ve gained of life – and the stuff they are still to learn – in moving melodies with poetic lyricism. Drawing together the talents of Louise Driver (violin), Jason M Smith (drums and percussion) and Stephen Adams (vocals and acoustic guitar), 23 Fields saunters through fields of folk music, bringing its charm and its vulnerability to our ears. Join us as we delve into their single, ‘You’re Alright’.

Following the well-received single, ‘Where Did We Go So Wrong’, and taken from the 2025 album, The Vacant Stars Of Wandering Souls, ‘You’re Alright’ is a sonic wave of knee-skinning grit and ruggedness bound with a soothing yet brash ribbon of sound – an oscillation of contrast often heard in a 23 Fields song. Adams’ soaring guitar travels across the melody, while Driver’s violin dances along and holds your hand as you saunter through ‘You’re Alright’. Add the peeping percussion and soulful piano, and you find yourself wandering further into an enigmatic soundscape; however, the beating drum acts like an anchoring force in this twirl of music.

For me, the melody is moving in its intricate but simplistic arrangement. The thing is, while the instruments weave a thrilling tune, Adams’s charcoal vocals up the ante, executing poetic lyricism in gruff tones. Moreover, it is the lyricism and the song’s theme of resilience, understanding and empowerment that enhances its weightiness. 23 Fields explains: “

This song is about being there for someone when they can’t quite be there for themselves. It’s the reminder we all need at some point – that even when things feel overwhelming, you’re still standing.”

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In addition to the single, 23 Fields released an official music video for ‘You’re Alright’. You can view the video below and/or on their YouTube channel. Please note this video uses lighting effects that can trigger seizures in people with photosensitive epilepsy. Viewer discretion is recommended.

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Find out more about 23 Fields on their official website, Facebook, X, TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, Soundcloud and Spotify.

This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustainablecurator

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Listen to more folk music on The Other Side Reviews Folk playlist: