Real name Brenna Slate, Lounna is a Pittsburgh, USA-based singer songwriter who has just come to my attention through the release of her second album, Garden For Winter.

By Graeme Smith

Inspired by the likes of Bear’s Den, Gregory Alan Isakov, and boygenius, Lounna’s sound blends folk and pop to create an emotional soundscape. It’s a sound that immediately strikes you from the first bars of her new album’s opening track, Sassafras.

That, and the storytelling, image-laden lyrics. Garden For Winter is an album about mental health struggles, grief and hope. Originally slated for release in January 2024, its release was delayed after her husband was diagnosed with Burkitt Lymphoma, so they’re topics close to her heart.

Very much rooted in the part of the US which Lounna lives, tracks like Appalachian Mountains, Alpenglow, Wildwoods and Peak Season paint a picture of her surrounds as much as they tell her personal story. Mournful strings, plucked banjo and contemplative percussion all build atmosphere.

Under The Same Stars sees Lounna team up with Reliable Child for a tender acoustic duet while Lily of The Valley is alive with the sound of crickets chirping. Bigger Than Us closes the album in triumphant style, shaking off the doubts for a soaring final highlight.

Lounna’s new album is one that truly transports you, all while telling a powerful, emotional and raw tale. She’s been brave sharing her story for us with such vulnerability. The record is so much more relatable for it.

Garden For Winter was recorded and produced with Armbrust engineer Daniel Blake. It’s out now and you can give it a listen below.

Lounna will be hosting an album launch show at The Trendy Bunny Event Cafe in Greensburg on Friday 31 January 2025 at 8:30pm EST.