Songwriter Sanctuary alum Ben Parks continues to prove that authenticity is its own art form. Raised in the South and rooted in gospel music, Ben has spent the past few years reshaping his sound and sense of self. His latest release, Ecotone, Pt. II (out November 7), captures that evolution with shimmering indie pop production and lyrics that balance vulnerability with quiet confidence.

The new five-song EP follows Ecotone, Pt. I, expanding on its themes of faith, identity, and belonging. Tracks like “All My Love” and “Attachment Theory” reveal an artist who has grown more grounded and self-assured without losing the emotional depth that first drew listeners in.

We’re so proud to see Ben carving out space in the San Diego music scene and beyond. Make sure to stream Ecotone, Pt. II, follow Ben on your favorite platforms, and check out the next Songwriter Sanctuary event to discover your new favorite local artist.

Stream ‘Ecotone, Pt. II’

San Diego-based indie artist, Songwriter Sanctuary alumni Mariela will release her debut LP The Underglow on October 10. The ten song collection from Rachel Hall (the singer-songwriter/producer behind the moniker) is a raucous gender-affirming revelry that invites anyone who’s ever been ostracized to report to the dance floor for some rock candy pop music therapy.
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New tunes include:

• “Fall in Love Again” (party starter co-written with The Voice contestants Leah Colon and Sav Walters of the indie-pop duo MisterMoon.)
• “The Underglow” (sexy closer co-written with Grammy-winner Melody Walker).
• “Dust” (nostalgic confessional, co-written with Brenden St. Gelais).
• “Don’t Pretend” (razor sharp callout to the ones who pretend to care).

Fans may also recognize previously released singles including: 

• “Santa Ana” (early single signaling Hall’s arrival as Mariela).
• “Don’t Fence Me In” (bold closer co-written with Latifah Alattas of Page CXVI).
• “Brandy” (flirty romp produced by longtime collaborator Tommy E. Nixon). 
• “Therapist Said” (vulnerable breakup ballad co-written with Lily Wecks).
• “Moriah” (triumphant rejection of evangelical bigotry, another Walker co-write).
• “The Girls of Summer” (playful queer twist on a Don Henley classic, reimagined with Songwriter Sanctuary curator Lindsay White.)​

The album’s sound comes to life through a network of trusted friends and collaborators. Producer Tommy E. Nixon and guitarist Luke Gibson anchor much of the record, joined by an ensemble of musicians and friends who’ve helped shape The Underglow into both a personal capstone and communal celebration.