The Barometer: Sam Amidon; Diane Birch; Jesca Hoop; Leisure; Ellie Goulding; Crowded House; Villagers; The Leisure Society

What's hot on our playlist

Sam Amidon, Way Go Lily

A children's song from the Georgia Islands, recorded by a New York folkie on an Icelandic label, in the style of avant-gardist Arthur Russell.

Diane Birch, Valentino

New American blue-eyed soul singer calls on her imaginary friend to get her through the tedium of piano chores in an LA hotel bar.

Jesca Hoop, Whispering Light

Skewiff, playful and intricate folk from a newcomer whose music Tom Waits describes as "like going swimming in a lake at night".

Leisure, It's Allright (on the Suez Canal)

Gentle yet spirited, elegant chamber pop with Beatles flavours from the Massachussetts indie-pop trio.

Ellie Goulding, I'll Hold My Breath

Goulding's pretty and melodic voice provides tips on how to open your mind and live an interesting life.

Crowded House, Saturday Sun

Back with a new album this summer, Neil Finn's Aussie heroes offer a new single which boasts an expansive melody.

Villagers, Becoming a Jackal

Ecstatic, poetic pop on precocious Dubliner Conor O'Brien's band's Domino debut.

The Leisure Society, Save It For Someone Who Cares

Nick Hemming's band's slice of folky joy offers lilting flute, strings, and piano loveliness worthy of its Ivor Novello nomination.

Listen to this week's free playlist on Spotify at Independent.co.uk/mixtape