Angelina’s Corner: Roundup
Words by Angelina Singer
I really enjoyed the comforting vibe of this one. It’s got a really great faith-based message but honestly, I think anyone would enjoy this song with the fun beats and catchy lyrics. Sonically, it’s got some unique percussion textures that blend beautifully with the positive messaging and musical layers. If you’ve been looking for a body-positive anthem that will brighten your day, this song is just the thing to remind you of your worth as a human being, beyond what the media might say to the contrary.
Sleeping with Sirens
Standing Still by Ethan Senger
This bright-pop gem blends multiple genres, including moments of country, pop, and dare I say, a hint of bossa-nova in the keys? While I can’t promise I can describe that genre in detail, there’s something a bit exotic and nuanced here, and that was the best way I could describe it. The vocals are clear, well-performed, and comforting, as the artist sings about what it’s like to overlook what’s right in front of you. He’s boasting some pretty cool credentials too, having worked with producers and music studios that have A-list artists like Taylor Swift and Death Cab for Cutie on their portfolio. I was so impressed with this one, excellent work!
Taking It Easy by Jennifer James
I liked the plusky electric guitar that shifts this song into overdrive. Sultry-sweet vocals populate the space, as the artist sings about not overthinking life (or love, for that matter). Light percussion keeps things moving without making the mix too busy. I liked the lead guitar work too, and the key change was a nice addition. “Nothing you’d say would ever kill my vibe” is probably the central theme, living life loud without worrying what people think of you. Enjoy this one with a tall glass of lemonade (or a mimosa — I won’t judge).
While I found the intro to be a bit sonically busy, I really enjoyed the rest of this song. The vocals are smooth, and the message is a sweetly-layered ode to romancing the girl who refuses to admit how much you mean to her. “She says you’re such a dreamboy / wish I could rip you right out my screen boy” is in the chorus, and it’s so catchy. I think this one will really appeal to K-pop audiences who like that slice-of-life style of writing with a glitter-pop aesthetic. If this sounds like you, listen to this one loud and often for an instant dopamine boost.
Forever/Always by Sleeping with Sirens
This track takes me back to the 2010’s, with its unapologetic honesty and angst. While I can’t say the screaming sections are particularly my favorite, I enjoy the overall punk style as this band is one that I used to follow more back in the day. Intricate instrumentation and a sleek production style make this one feel polished without being overly digitized. Echoing vocals create an atmosphere that you can sink into, as the lead singer laments the sadness after a failed relationship ending despite the emotions that stuck around. Listen to this one anytime you need a good cry or just want to lean into that coming-of-age main character energy.
When She Moves by Christian Walker
Country music is a hard sell for me, because they’re usually a dime a dozen and often sound all the same, but this one was really fun and catchy enough to make me pause and listen. It’s super marketable, and I think it’s a really sweet depiction of what it’s like to fall in love with every little detail about a person. Lead guitar riffs carve out space for reflection, and I felt that the solo section is where the skill of the musician really shined, even though it was so brief. For a toe-tapping, enjoyable love song, this one is just the ticket.
“Boy you sound like Dr. Suess when you’re trying to hide that attitude” is such a great line to open a chorus with. This song almost sounds like a joke song, until you actually listen to the clever lyrics and reflect on your own complicated relationships while you’re laughing out loud. I found myself bopping my head to the beat, and enjoying the overall style of the song despite (or perhaps, because of) the unconventional approach to the storytelling. For these reasons, I was able to overlook any slight vocal imperfections, because the style and the overall production were just so much fun. Enjoy this one for a cathartic break from life and all the drama that comes with it.