Angelina’s Corner: Roundup
Words by Angelina Singer
Kaylin Kole
I absolutely loved the style of this song that reminded me so much of something Sara Bareilles might write. Fun fact: this artist also takes the credit for starting that whole group 7 trend on TikTok, with this very song. And I can see why — it’s plucky, bright, and has just enough subtle angst to drive home the universal reality that imbalanced romantic relationships usually topple over fast. “This was supposed to be a two-way street / you skipped the traffic and losing speed” are just some of the clever lyrics full of well-chosen metaphors amidst the light percussion and melodic full-bodied piano chords. For anyone who loves pop music with a bit of Broadway flair in it, this song is just the thing to blast out your car windows while driving home from work.
I’m Gonna be Famous (How Cute!) by Kaiyah Mercedes
I really liked the borderline-country styled vocal melody alongside the main-pop-girly angst. It’s all about being brave enough to shoot for the stars and follow your dreams even when you have setbacks in life. The whole thing is an electro-pop confidence booster perfect for when you want to feel like the main character of your story. Light electric guitar traces the line into the rock genre as the bridge starts up before going back to the chorus after some cheeky background ad-libs. Listen loud to instantly feel like the winner you already are.
This one instantly reminded me of “Wish You Were Here” by Incubus, so I’d say any fans of the similar grunge-rock style would dig this too. Strong vocals depict the overall angst and frustration with not having enough personal vision in life. Rich harmonies flesh out the chorus, creating some great sonic dynamics that makes this song absolutely radio-ready on the latest and greatest alternative station. This song is best listened to on a rainy day for maximum reflection and catharsis. Bonus points for the rhythmic lead guitar that really sets the pace for something emotional to take the stage.
This one is more staunchly on the country tracks with its pedal steel guitar and laid-back percussion, but it’s got a fantastic opening line of “I don’t write for the radio / I gave it up a long long time ago”. Long story short, this is a country song about bucking the trend of country songs more or less having the same themes — and calling out the artists who write them. The artist’s vocals are great, but my favorite part of this song is the tongue-in-cheek message about the music industry as a whole. Listen for a thought-provoking laugh that will encourage you to consider the pitfalls of the record label formula that sadly keep a lot of creativity under wraps.
Yet another tongue-in-cheek country song is in this week’s roundup, and this one has Carrie Underwood sensibilities with all the sass — because this artist is calling out all the posers. Because the genre is so prevalent in the industry — and it comes with so many cultural quirks — this artist wants to shine a light on the idea that so many people will try to be something they’re not in the name of having a marketable image. I also really loved the lead guitar work and the way this artist delivers her message with so much conviction and confidence. All that aside, the song is also really well-produced in addition to being clever — a winning combo.
Yes — this is, indeed, Miley Cyrus’ brother. While he might not be as well-known, he’s got just as much talent as his sister (who’s featured on the background vocals of this track). This is a great track for any country fan, and I really liked the sonic textures of the different instruments in the mix that are effective without feeling too busy. The choruses build up nicely and their voices mingle flawlessly, while still letting Braison’s vocals take center stage. It’s refreshing to hear both siblings embrace their country roots together, and this song is a wonderful change of pace from your typical playlist.
This gorgeous string-centered stripped-down track is a stunner. From slightly-haunting storytelling with a dramatic orchestral flair, this song has everything. It’s romantic, heartbreaking, and beautiful as the vocalist depicts the struggles of getting a new relationship off the ground. While the lyrics are approachable and conversational, the ideas behind this song are anything but. If anything, it feels like something straight out of a diary entry that you accidentally stumbled upon without meaning to. Musically, the string section ebbs and flows, building into an emotional crescendo at the bridge that you won’t want to miss. For something humble and uniquely thought-provoking, this song is just the thing to add to your journaling playlist.