Angelina’s Corner: Roundup
Words by Angelina Singer
This pop country track about the reality of growing up with no playbook has some wonderful lyrics and even better rhythms. I loved the way the verses have this rap-y quality that reminded me of the way MGK sings. The choruses open up with some great energy, featuring bright guitars and an even brighter future — even if the artist’s life vision is still taking shape. With all the spunk of a young Taylor Swift and banjos to really seal the deal, this artist is one you won’t want to miss. Listen to this one loud anytime you feel lost in life — no matter how old you are.
Whereabouts
This song has such a nice, relaxed vibe that will remind you of days past. It’s got bright vocals, and a good dose of childlike wonder that you’ll have to experience for yourself. Sonically, it’s mostly ethereal vocal harmonies and acoustic guitar, which is such a breath of fresh air in today’s habit of overproducing music to be more mechanical than human-made art. Light piano notes float in the mix, creating a feeling of springtime, or perhaps early fall — the time between seasons where beginnings and endings happen at the same time. Enjoy this one anytime you want to remember someone you miss and are craving a dreamlike state that you can sink into.
This stripped-back folktune is a gorgeous journey into what it’s like to have a hard time letting go of something you know is hurting you. It’s a song written about habits, whether that’s an item or a person you just can’t quit. Acoustic guitars open up into a magical orchestral moment that feels otherworldly in the chorus. It also reminded me of something Taylor Swift might have written on her evermore album, so if that’s your vibe, then I’m pretty sure you’ll love this one too.
Did John Mayer send us this song? No? Well when you listen to this one, you just might find yourself curious about that. In this case, the idea of being in a car is presented as the backdrop for a complicated relationship going south. I loved the way this one grows in both sound and lyrical intensity as the song progresses. There’s so much complicated emotion in this one that you’ll find yourself face-to-face with, whether you relate to it or not.
For Comrades and Lovers by Rookie Mistake
I literally said “Wow” when I listened to this one again. The acoustic guitar work is so gorgeous at the beginning, and the cozy vocals depicting the stream of consciousness of early romance really takes center stage here. Spooky-cognizant sound effects add an intriguing texture to the song as it leads into the chorus, which sets it nicely in the soundtrack of fall. More vocal harmonies pick up the slack when everything falls out shortly after that, and it’s so soothing to listen to. “There’s no shame in letting go / just figure I should let you know” is at the center of this gorgeous track.
Alt-jazz and funk make an appearance with this track, leaning into the quirky side of music with energetic guitar licks and soothing vocals. Written all about the ups and downs of life, there’s so much to love about this one. Whether you’re looking for something to make you smile, or help you reflect on your life lately, this song is just the thing. Listen to it loud for maximum effect — and so you get the full effect of that delicious bass line and guitar solo.
Rounding out this week’s collection of sonic earworms is another lovely track from Trinity Bliss — she’s been featured on this column before, and for good reason! Her songs are always full of teenage-angst, but in a pleasant, sparkly, sweet way that makes you reminisce about your own coming-of-age years. Stylized a lot like Carly Rae Jepsen or any other similar mainstream pop princess, this artist is on the rise — so don’t miss this song about what it’s like to fall in love when your naivety might leave you a little sad when it’s over.