Jon Boden - Lau's multi-talented accordionist - steps out on his own with the release of his debut solo album 'Songs From The Floodplain' in early March. As a pre-cursor to it's release the album's final track 'Has Been Cavalry' has been made available as a free Mp3 for a limited period of time. With a heavy emphasis on finding and nurturing a blend between Boden's folk roots and his passion for alt-rock, it's a fitting introduction for what promises to be a truly stunning debut. www.jonboden.com

Lush folk pop from New York's Mascott - and FDM.com's fourth of our Chosen Few - that shares in the same dreamy realm as Camera Obscura, 'Press Play (and then Repeat)' is a highlight from her brand new LP 'Art Project'. Wistful, mellow and strung together loosely around some deliciously-honeyed vocals, it is further evidence that NYC is currently a breeding ground for some unexpected musical treasures. www.myspace.com/mascott

Primarly known as the voice behind The Memory Band, Nancy Wallace will step out on her own next year with the release of her debut solo album 'Old Stories'. The Chosen Few's free Mp3 'Sleeping Sickness' is a delicious teaser from that record; twinkling folk pop that sits somewhere between the warm melodies of Maria Taylor and the rich acoustica of young Alessi Laurent Marke. www.myspace.com/nancywallace

One of Nashvillle's most creative and timeless young songwriters, Justin Townes Earle represents a new breed of Tennessee songwriting that looks to push the boundaries of the traditional country music template. Get your hands on the free Mp3 download of 'Hard Living' as part of FDM.com's Chosen Few feature for 2009 now.

The harrowing new voice of nu-Americana is North Carolina singer/ songwriter Jeff Zentner. Writing stark, poignant and fragile songs that sound like a dark-hearted Iron & Wine he is FDM.com's first One to Watch for 2009. Download the track 'Things We Fed To The Fire' exclusively here.

January 2009