It’s just a small step from the Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts to a
record deal, and Louis De Roo takes it with ease. Now he can fully focus on
writing songs, making a debut album and working hard for his predestined big
breakthrough, under his nom de plume Isaac Roux. If LIPA doesn’t ring a bell, then ‘Paul McCartney’s music academy’ certainly will. In 2015 De Roo was one of the lucky 100 applicants that were admitted to study there for four years, even having the chance to work on some songs with Sir Paul himself. With a perfect accent he puts his emotions and soul in his songs, wrapped in guitars that build up at the right moment. Think: Bon Iver, Ben Howard, Perfume Genius and My Morning Jacket or, closer to home, Novastar. ‘White Rose’ is one of those songs, heavenly indie folk with just the right amount of edge, a full sound, not slick, and the warm glow of De Roo’s characteristic voice. It was that song that brought him victory in ‘De Nieuwe Lichting’,  a steppingstone to a thriving career.

She might still be young but Belgian ISE is making big moves. The singer-songwriter hits you right in your feelings with her authentic sound. If you listen closely you might discover some 90s influences in her tracks. She played at Pukkelpop an Sziget and can proudly call herself the winner of De Nieuwe Lichting 2024.