Album of the Month: February
As the cold Dutch winter continues to cast its icy grip over the country, I find myself going against the grain with my album of the month. Rather than embracing the melancholic tones that usually accompany grey skies and chilly mornings, I’ve chosen an album that radiates warmth, hope, and a much-needed reminder that brighter days are ahead. Sometimes, the best way to survive winter is by letting a record take you somewhere else entirely. This February, that album for me has been New Love by Ziggy Alberts.
Released on February 21, 2025, New Love is Ziggy Alberts’ seventh studio album, and it feels like an evolution of everything he’s done before. Known for his intimate storytelling and ability to craft music that feels like a direct conversation with the listener, Alberts once again delivers an album brimming with authenticity. The record is structured with a clear duality: the first half (‘North’) leans into Alberts’ signature acoustic folk sound, while the second half (‘South’) explores a broader sonic palette, incorporating rock and country influences. This balance makes New Love feel expansive yet deeply personal, like a long road trip filled with moments of introspection and exhilaration.
From the very first track, “Flowers Bathed in Sunlight,” Alberts invites us into his world of simplicity and optimism. The light, breezy acoustic arrangements feel like they belong to a sun-drenched coastline rather than a studio, a testament to his ability to translate emotions into sound. Tracks like “I’m With You” and “Learn Yourself” continue this thread, emphasizing connection, nature, and self-discovery — recurring themes in Alberts’ work that resonate with his ever-growing audience.
But the album isn’t just about dreamy folk melodies. Side B introduces a refreshing contrast, with songs like “Outlaw” breaking the mold. A more rugged, energetic piece, it showcases Alberts’ ability to blend folk with rawer, edgier influences. This shift adds depth to the album, proving that while he remains true to his roots, he’s unafraid to experiment. The production, co-crafted with Garrett Kato, manages to maintain an organic, almost live-session quality, reinforcing the album’s overarching theme: finding magic in simplicity.
Lyrically, New Love is both reflective and uplifting. Alberts explores themes of second chances, the beauty of life’s imperfections, and the power of staying present. His words don’t feel preachy; instead, they serve as gentle reminders — encouragement to embrace joy, seek adventure, and appreciate the small moments that often pass us by. Tracks like “Breathe In, Breathe Out” and “Blessings” encapsulate this perfectly, offering a mix of nostalgia and forward-looking optimism.
With New Love, Ziggy Alberts has created a record that feels like an escape and a homecoming all at once. It’s an album that can carry you through a long, dreary winter while simultaneously making you crave the open road and endless summer skies.
Have you given New Love a spin yet? Let me know what you think! You’ll also find some of its tracks scattered across my playlists, especially Happy Acoustic Guitar Songs — perfect for anyone in need of an energy boost. Whether you’re braving the cold or chasing the sun, this album might just be the perfect companion.