George Houston - TODC (2025)

George Houston has delivered a bold fourth album, TODC (The Original Death Card), maintaining a vintage sound to channel heartbreak anthems of the 60s whilst pushing queer representation and progressive takes on life. Through brave and angered lyrics, Houston’s alluring vocals are reminiscent of Leonard Cohen’s (Litmus Test) with the traditional, romantic pop of Frank Sinatra (Juliet, Big Footed Mama) and the soul of Dionne Warwick (Hey Arnold). Having grown up queer in rural Ireland, George is now revelling in the freedom of calling out repressive systems, like criticising religious hypocrisy on Jesus Freaks and Drag Queen. Production is effective without being overbearing, like on Lilith, where powerful drums and reverb guitars create a thriller feel to echo its darker themes.