Angelina’s Corner: Roundup
Words by Angelina Singer
Rounding out this week’s article is a techno alt-rock track with some ambient lead guitars and echoing vocals. I really liked the layers of this one, and the way the vocalist creates all these different styles within the same song (like how the chorus has a different vibe than the verses that feel almost closer up). The lead guitar feels like it’s soaring, while the swampy bass holds down the rhythm that everything bounces off of. Lyrically, it’s depicting the frustration of clinging to a relationship that you know is no longer healthy for you. If you’ve ever been in this situation, this song will hit home for you.
Kensie & Stiko
This ethereal track features gorgeous vocal harmonies and an acoustic guitar that weaves a beautiful tapestry of sound and emotion. The theme is all about leaning on someone, despite the fact that this person is far away (or there’s some other logistical struggle). The storyline is worthy of being part of a romantic movie soundtrack, or even just the soundtrack to your own life as you find your own very special someone. Listen to it anytime you need some hope or inspiration to put yourself out there again after heartbreak.
All In One Day by the Phil King Project
This one is a stellar reminder that your life can change in a moment — as long as you’re brave enough to put yourself out there. It’s romantic, bright, and a pop-rock gem that’s well-produced and radio-ready. I also noticed a hint of pop country influence, so this one will appeal to audiences from multiple genres. “I had no hope / I had lost my way / thought I’d never see another sunny day / then you came to me / finally I could breathe again” are some of the lyrics that present this super positive message. It also reminded me of the late 2000s pop rock style, so if that’s your jam too, I know you’ll love this one too. While I’m not totally sure who sings this song, since the listed artist is the producer, I think it’s a great musical piece and definitely worth checking out.
The chorus of this one reminded me of a movie villain’s feature track — but in a good way! The message of this song is an empowering, sultry anthem about leaving the things in life behind that aren’t serving your best interest. It’s got an edge that you have to hear to believe, and I know you’ll relate to the feeling of being stuck in a situation or relationship that you really want to get out of. This song with a slight flamenco flair will be the kick in the butt you’ve been looking for to make the tough decisions that will bring you to your best life. After all, after some reflection from a place of maturity, some of those villains from our favorite childhood movies actually had some pretty valid reasons to be upset.
Dirt in the Church BY STRANDELL
I really appreciate the message of this song, that church isn’t for people that are perfect — it’s just a group of people coming together to learn more about their faith in Jesus. It’s your quintessential country track, with a smoky lead guitar solo and raspy vocals that are hard-hitting and real — just like the people this song is written about. “A sacred place with a messed-up crowd” perfectly sums up the message of this song, and I truly feel sorry for anyone who’s been hurt by churches (because I’ve been hurt too). Some churches don’t subscribe to this more kind-hearted attitude that actually facilitates growth and fellowship, instead hurting the very same people they claim to care about. Enjoy this one anytime you need a reminder that you belong and you matter.
For a relaxed track that will remind you of Bon Iver or Noah Kahn, this song is just the thing. It’s romantic and hopeful, despite the message being about holding on to a relationship that needs some TLC. A light, breathy acoustic guitar populates most of the sonic space, with some relaxed percussion in the background that builds as the song progresses. I really liked the more chill style, and the way the vocals are well-balanced with the rest of the track layers. Insightful lyrics bring listeners into the artist’s slice-of-life storytelling that will leave you with plenty of space to reflect on your own personal growth and relationships of all kinds.
Rounding out this week’s roundup is a relaxed track about what it’s like to want to grow into your best self, but not knowing where to start. Bright, clear vocals cut through the ambient backing tracks that build and grow as the song progresses. At the end of the day, it’s most important to be yourself (as opposed to who others want you to be), but how do you be yourself when you don’t know who that is yet? This is the coming-of-age message delicately woven in this anthemic track that will be a hug for your younger self, while still inspiring you to go after what you want most in life.