Early 2017, we managed to film Peter Doherty in Cologne, shot the session and went to his show afterwards. This irish guy called Sion Hill was supporting Peter on this tour and it was the first time we heard him play - and fell in love instantly. Only some days later we announced Sion Hill for our fifth Cardinal Sessions Festival in May of 2017.

English folk-guitarist and singer-songwriter John Smith first got our attention some years ago when we filmed a session with the wonderful Lisa Hannigan. We went to her show afterwards and John was playing guitar in Lisa's band - and did an amazing job. His backing voice was always so subtle, but rich and unique. Two years later, the same thing happened again - but John was this time playing in the band of David Gray, who we met for a session.

"Is it cruel or kind not to speak my mind, and to lie to you, rather than hurt you?"

Phoebe Bridgers is an artist from Los Angeles who really stands out for us when it comes to singer-songwriters. Every word she sings feels very real and raw and, positively, a little out-of-time. She recorded with Ryan Adams, toured with Julien Baker and Conor Oberst, but what's most important: She's gonna release a record really soon. Our favourite song might be "Steamroller", a sad tune about love that strikes just the right tone.

The Jesus and Mary Chain from Scotland have always been one of the Greats in not giving a fuck - it's even more surprising that they recorded "Sometimes Always" in 1994 on their fifth record "Stoned and Dethroned", as it is not as heavy as most of the bands songs. It's heartfelt and touching and one of the most interesting things to happen to love songs as it describes kind of a one-way relationship. This Letterman performance features Hope Sandoval, singer of Mazzy Star.