Ross Flora shares ‘Cornerstone’ – a song displaying power of faith, community, and the unwavering love

From an early age, ROSS FLORA showed strong signs of becoming a musical prodigy. His father cultivated his musical journey when he overheard Ross – who was just 12 at the time – performing along a Van Halen CD— he signed Ross up for guitar lessons that very day! Throughout his teenage years, Ross went on to perform at various venues and festivals. At 19, he joined The Kings on tour in Roanoke, Virginia, as a guitarist and vocalist.

The big decision of moving from his hometown Virginia to Nashville to take his music career to another level, had paid off fruitfully For Ross. His gutsy soulful fusion of Country and Folk along with compelling storytelling has earned him a dedicated following. Ross’ debut single ‘Cannonball’, released in 2002, was met with glowing reviews with fans hailing him ‘The Golden Age of Rock ’n’ Roll with a Southern Flare’. He followed up with his first EP, ‘Shoulders of Giants’, in July the same year, which landed him a feature in the Roanoke Times alongside fellow Virginian Morgan Wade as an emerging Nashville talent.

Despite his burgeoning music career, Ross felt he was at a crossroad. His latest single, ‘Cornerstone’ is a touching invitation into Ross’s life, where he felt spiritually stagnant. However with the unflappable love and firm support from the right people, Ross was able to rebuild his life. Woven in a blissful fusion of Americana, Country and Folk, ‘Cornerstone’ sees Ross cleverly utilising metaphors for building one’s life on a firm foundation amidst life’s trials and tribulations and paints a vivid picture of transformation, moving from a place of despair to rediscovering faith and stability.

Through its touching message, Ross hopes that ‘Cornerstone’ offers some comfort to anyone who suffered the same fate. More importantly, ‘Cornerstone’ is a reminder to appreciate the community of people who offered that helping hand, in order to be the best version of ourselves. After all, it was this type of support that saved Ross from a dark hole.

‘Cornerstone’ is now available across various music platforms. Why not listen to his heartfelt offering below…

Connect with Ross Flora via:
FB: https://www.facebook.com/RossFloraOfficial/
IG: https://www.instagram.com/rossfloramusic/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rossfloramusic

A Quick Chat With…Handshake In Space

Since 2023, HANDSHAKE IN SPACE has been gracing the blog with his innovative EDM grooves which have made regular appearances on NLM charts over on Instagram.

So it’s an absolute pleasure to finally catch-up with the Swedish EDM producer to talk about his single, ‘Right By You’. Featuring Linnéa Lundgren, the smooth club filler is currently the blog’s Song of the Month.

NLM: Hey, thank you for taking part in an interview with NEW LEASE MUSIC. How is 2025 treating you so far?

HIS: Thanks for having me! 2025 has been an exciting year so far—lots of creative energy and new collaborations. I’m feeling inspired and ready to connect with even more listeners through my music.

NLM: Before we discuss your single, ‘Right By You’, please explain the meaning behind your epic stage name, Handshake In Space?

HIS: The name “Handshake In Space” is all about connection—reaching across boundaries, whether they’re between people, cultures, or even dimensions. It’s that moment of unity and understanding, something that feels almost cosmic. I wanted a name that captures both the electronic, futuristic vibe of my music and the idea of bringing people together.

NLM: You released ‘Right By You’ on Earth Hour Day (22nd March). What’s the public’s perception on the single so far?

HIS: The response has been amazing! Fans have connected with the emotional depth of the track, and releasing it on Earth Hour Day added a layer of meaning—tying music to mindfulness and our planet. Many have shared how it resonates with them personally, which is the best feedback an artist can get.

NLM: The single features Sweden’s acclaimed singer Linnéa Lundgren. How did you guys meet and who sparked the collaboration for ‘Right By You’?

HIS: We actually met through a mutual friend in the music scene. I’d been a fan of Linnéa’s voice and songwriting for a while, so when the opportunity came up, I reached out with the idea for this track. Luckily, she connected with it right away, and the collaboration came together naturally.

NLM: How would you describe the single’s sound to potential fans?

HIS: It’s a blend of melodic EDM with an emotional, atmospheric vibe. Think warm synths, driving beats, and Linnéa’s beautiful vocals bringing it all together. It’s music for late nights and reflective moments — but also something you can dance to.

NLM: What inspired you to produce the single?

HIS: The track was born from a moment of reflection on loyalty and support—how we show up for the people we care about, even when things get tough. Musically, I wanted to capture that duality of strength and vulnerability, which shaped the song’s uplifting yet melancholic vibe.

NLM: What message would you like the listeners to take away from your single?

HIS: I hope listeners feel uplifted and connected—reminded that we’re all in this together. Whether it’s friendship, love, or just being present for someone. People have the power to change.

NLM: So what are your plans for the rest of the year?

HIS: I’m working on new music and exploring exciting collaborations. There are some live events in the pipeline, and I’m always looking for new ways to connect with fans and push my sound forward.

NLM: How can potential fans contact you?

HIS: You can find me on all major social media platforms—Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook—just search for Handshake In Space. My music is available on Spotify, Apple Music, and SoundCloud. Feel free to drop me a message—I love hearing from listeners!

NLM: Finally, if music did not exist, what profession would you do?

HIS: Wow… that’s hard to imagine but maybe working in anything that makes this beautiful world a better place. A change is gonna come.


Check out HANDSHAKE IN SPACE’s latest single, ‘Ocean Drive’ featuring Jolina Elísh, right HERE

Colin Manson releases Debut EP ‘Wayfinding’

Scottish singer-songwriter COLIN MANSON embarks on a deeply personal and immersive musical journey with the release of his Debut EP ‘Wayfinding’, available now on all major streaming platforms . Rooted in the rhythms of the sea and his upbringing on the rugged West coast of Scotland, this four-track collection captures the spirit of adventure, deep reflection and soul searching drawn from Colin’s experiences crossing the world’s oceans in small sailing boats.

With his new single ‘The Water’ alongside three previous singles, Colin has put together a truly beautiful and heartfelt offering, making waves in the indie/folk scene and capturing the attention of many.

Each song in the EP tells a unique story, weaving a rich tapestry of melody and narrative that transports listeners into Colin’s world. From the soft, undulating textures of ‘Sea Son’ to the raw, percussive rhythms of ‘These Words’, Colin demonstrates the depth of his musical expression, painting vivid soundscapes inspired by his time at sea. Why not listen to ‘Wayfinding’ below…

Must Listens: Where We Started, Sea Son

Follow Colin Manson via:
FB: https://www.facebook.com/colinmansn
IG: https://www.instagram.com/colinmansn

Source: Colin Manson

Song of the Day: Ocean Drive – Handshake In Space (ft. Jolina Elísh)

Swedish EDM artist and producer HANDSHAKE IN SPACE is back, claiming the Song of the Day top spot, with single ‘Ocean Drive’, a pulsating and dreamy track featuring singer Jolina Elísh.

With a blend of atmospheric synths, driving beats, and Jolina Elísh’s enchanting voice, ‘Ocean Drive’ is a song made for late summer nights and euphoric dance floors.

”‘Ocean Drive’ is a track I’ve been working on for a long time, and when Jolina came in with her magical voice, everything fell into place. This is one of my most emotional yet club-friendly productions so far,” says HANDSHAKE IN SPACE about the release.

Jolina Elísh, who has previously collaborated with several major names in electronic music, adds another dimension to the song with her deep and emotionally charged vocal performance.

The lyrics depict an emotional journey through memories of love and encounters in different places around the world, where the protagonist allows themselves to be carried away by the moment. ‘Ocean Drive’ is about the freedom to follow one’s impulses, to embrace life as an adventure, and to enjoy every moment without looking back.

‘Ocean Drive is out now on all digital platforms. Why not check it out below…

Connect with HANDSHAKE IN SPACE via:
FB: https://www.facebook.com/handshakeinspace
IG: https://www.instagram.com/handshake_in_space
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@handshakeinspace

Source: Stefan Halling (Handshake In Space)

A Quick Chat With… Nick Edwards

NICK EDWARDS dazzled his presence on NEW LEASE MUSIC with his 2024 EP, ‘Live At Yellow Arch Studio’ and went on to make history on NLM charts over on Instagram, claiming the Album of the Week title TWELVE times as well as currently holding the blog’s Album of the Month title.

So it was an absolute pleasure catching up with one of Manchester’s emotive singer-songwriter to talk about his brand new album, ‘Troubadour Soul Sinner’, out now across various music platforms.

NLM: Hey, thank you for taking part in an interview with NEW LEASE MUSIC. How is 2025 treating you so far?

NE: We are doing good. It’s been a hectic year so far on the music front, which is nice. This year is turning out to be the busiest we have had so far, with over 20 live shows scheduled around the UK, with more to be announced.

NLM: You just release your album, ‘Troubadour Soul Sinner’ (30th May). How would you describe the album’s sound to potential fans?

NE: Our sound is often labeled as country/soul, but it’s a blend of my diverse musical influences. Growing up in the 1980s, I was exposed to a wide range of genres, from Motown and rock to 90s pop. I’m sure on anyone’s first listen, these influences are subtly woven into the music.

NLM: What inspired you to produce the album?

NE: Following the release of my EP ‘1960’, which I released in 2023, I started writing a new EP. We got very close to finishing the EP, but we found that the collection of tracks we had was similar in style and time signature, and so we felt that whilst it was a good body of work, it wasn’t fluid enough for a release, so we quickly ditched that idea and began fleshing out the record into an album. It was a pretty nice transition, actually. It helped that I am always writing.

NLM: What is/are your favourite single(s) from the album and why?

NE: The album features some easy-listening tracks, along with some quite deep and meaningful songs to me personally, making for an eclectic mix. The first single I released was ‘Burning Love’. A simple love song touching on the way love used to be in the 90’s. When phones weren’t around, life was about mixing tapes, putting on a record, and living life with eyes wide open. I love the vibe of this song as it’s where I feel we found our ‘sound’. There is more of this type of sound to come. Other songs like ‘Letting Someone Go’ took inspiration from losing my dad and finally looking deep enough in yourself to know that moving on is the best way to move forward, but that moving on doesn’t mean forgetting. The opening track, ‘Where I Need to Go’, is a profound one for me, and it sets an honest tone for the record. My favourite track for the music is ‘Hometown’. I think it shows the talent I have.

NLM: What message would you like the listeners to take away from ‘Troubadour Soul Sinner’?

NE: My hope for ‘Troubadour Soul Sinner’ is that it resonates with listeners, providing a home within its tracks. I’ve delved deep into my personal experiences, flaws, and growth, and I’m proud to have translated them into this meaningful album.



NLM: If you had to feature one mainstream artist on the album, who would it, be and why?

NE: I would pick an artist who is honest, down-to-earth and modest. Zac Brown Band are really special to me, so it would have to be him.

NLM: So what plans do you have for the rest of 2025?

NE: We are fortunate to be playing weekend after weekend around the UK for various shows, so we are fully booked this year. I’m also currently going into the studio to put down my next record. My plans are always to keep moving…

NLM: How can potential fans find you?

NE: In the usual place. We are on most social media platforms, although we are probably most active on Instagram. All of my music is also uploaded on almost every mainstream platform.

NLM: Finally, any special shoutouts to those involved in the production of ‘Troubadour Soul Sinner’?

NE: I’m incredibly fortunate to have good people around me. Thankfully, I have not needed to rotate band members regularly, as I have a solid crew, and the album wouldn’t have been made without them, but my wife is a gem, and she doesn’t often get the praise. I have my bag regularly packed by the door, ready for my next outing. Not an easy life to be involved with, but she does it with ease.

Listen to ‘Troubadour Soul Sinner right here.