Angelina’s Corner: Roundup
Words by Angelina Singer
This is a refreshing pop-punk song with one of the best opening hooks I’ve heard in a while, simply stating “I’m upset”. The lyrics are clever, and I loved the gritty 2000s vibes of this song written about calling out a cheating girlfriend (“I know you cheated / I know you lied”). Slick guitar licks punctuate the empty space in between verses and lyrics, pushed forward by strong percussion. This song is expertly-crafted with overall fantastic production and angst, and I’m looking forward to hearing more from this band in the future. It’s got all the winning components of your favorite emo songs from yesterday that are sure to please even the harshest music critic.
Gal Musette
God Bless the Breakdown by Surf O Rays
Here’s a little relaxed surf-punk to get some energy into your winter blues. It’s bright, full of delectable harmonies to transport you into the sunshine, and bring a little taste of summer when you need it most. I loved the whining guitars and unique sonic textures that populate this song, while also sounding like something nostalgic that you grew up listening to. It’s perfect for fans of the Beach Boys or anyone who’s searching for something a bit more calming to listen to in the middle of their busy week.
This song is a lovely journey into reflecting on falling in love and being brave enough to try again despite being hurt in the past. I loved her vocal style and the way her ethereal harmonies reminded me of something that Phoebe Bridgers or boygenius might write. Populated over a delicate waltz beat and moments that tiptoe into the Dolly Parton country flair, there’s truly something here for everyone. The choruses really open up into an anthemic moment you won’t want to miss.
This is an intriguing song written all about handling your inner feelings that sometimes can throw you off your goals. It’s a poetic personification of these feelings, as the artist gets tired of fighting with the man on his shoulder. Lead guitar work throughout the song lifts it into the next stratosphere, and with its thought-provoking lyrics, there is so much to love about this track. I appreciate how it talks about mental health and the way it can be hard to manage these complicated feelings, sifting through which ones resonate with you and which ones don’t.
This unique take on bedroom pop sonically reminded me of something off Taylor Swift’s folklore album, but with a slightly darker twist. The vocal harmonies really shine as the vocalist sings to an object of his affection that he’s hopelessly in love with. Light piano notes play into the low ambient noise behind the main vocals to create an immersive environment that you’ll have to listen to for yourself. It’s the perfect track to journal along with, or reflect on how far you’ve traveled on your own journey with love and loss.
“You weren’t holding my hand / you were dragging me” is an incredibly poignant opening line in this song written all about being stuck in your journey to finding love. The vocal melody is a bit different than you would expect, but it’s delicately glued in place by the string section that kicks in during the chorus. I love the progression of the lyrics in verse two (“I wasn’t holding his hand / I was squeezin’ it”). The waltz beat adds so much desperation and longing to the song and I can’t wait for you to listen to it because it’s fantastic.
Loving You Is Easy by Scott Quinn
This chilled-out tune is the perfect addition to your next date night playlist. It’s full of love, admiration, and powerful vocal harmonies filled with raw passion. “If you don’t believe me, take a look at my heart” are only some of the thoughtful lyrics that create this comforting sonic experience. Ethereal melodies and harmonies take off during the second verse, and rise up even brighter in the next chorus as the vocalist describes how hard it is to convey love to someone who’s too insecure to fully love themselves.