Angelina’s Corner: Roundup
Words by Angelina Singer
This song is such a breath of fresh air for anyone who’s been stuck in a rut. If you’ve been looking for a sign to drop anything and go on your next adventure, this is it. Bright synths and ambient vocals create a vibrant sonic space that’s ideal for your next roadtrip or next romance. I love the lyric “we’ll find the beat for each other” - it’s a beautiful metaphor of building a life with someone else’s energetic flow in mind.
Another great escapism track, this song is accompanied by an Alice in Wonderland-esque aesthetic with an added emphasis on making the most of the time that you have. Ideal for fans of whimsy that’s still at least somewhat grounded in reality, this song hits all the right notes alongside a tasteful party beat. Lyrically, it’s got some fun ad-libs that reminded me a bit of what Sabrina Carpenter does in her songs (minus the more suggestive themes). For a sprightly tune that will remind you what it means to live life to the fullest, turn this one up loud.
Martin Oh
This haunting track is ideal for anyone looking for a cozy yet introspective getaway. With a vocal similar to that of Halsey, there’s so much soul mixed in between the delectably grunge-y guitars and deep thoughts. There are also some subtle folk tones underneath the warm vocals that are just perfect to cuddle up with on a rainy day. At the center of the track, the lyrics “I’m afraid of being myself / what I would give to be something else” suggest the deep fear we all have of being different than we want to be. No matter where this song finds you, I’m so sure you’ll find comfort between the notes and melodies.
Imposter Syndrome by Stella Matteoni
This gorgeous song is so heavily Sarah-Bareilles coded, I’d believe you if you told me it was her newest single. The Broadway-esque articulations, vocal ad-libs, and plucky tone is so familiar, but this artist still makes it totally her own. This song also reminded me of Em Beihold, with its subtly self-destructive themes and big-band instruments that harken to a time where things were easier with only a modicum of hope that things will turn around. The slow-down in the latter half of the song is so ear-catching and unique, giving way to a momentary fuzzed-out vintage moment. Listen to this song if you’ve ever felt alone in your struggles. Newsflash: you’re not.
Make it Through by The Empty Pockets
This fun ensemble is a beautifully-blended quartet that functions like a delightful musical hive mind. You can barely hear where one member ends and the other begins, because they are so tightly wound together in this delightful musical experience. The song is all about the monotony of everyday life, and having the resiliency to find joy in the little moments anyway. I loved the way the guitar solos are articulated and the joyful vocal harmonies throughout. Listen to this song for a powerful instant mood boost that you can’t find just anywhere.