Angelina’s Corner: Roundup
Words by Angelina Singer
This faith-filled pop track not only has a great message, but also a great sound! I really liked the light, summery beat and the well-produced sonic layers and vocals. “Everyone’s got a story why their feet hit the floor / everyone’s got a reason why they’re lookin’ for more” is at the center of the message, and I really appreciated the energy of this one overall. A bright horn section punctuates the positive vibes, making it a fun addition to your summer roadtrip playlist.
For fans of 2000s pop queens like Avril Lavigne, Michelle Branch, and Hilary Duff, this raw and honest track will hit all the right notes. While it’s a breakup track, there’s so much hope baked in where the songstress wonders if there’s a way to make things work overall. “So if it’s goodbye / is this really goodbye?” are some of the lyrics you’ll hear with this emotional track. I loved the way her vocals are sharp but at times, less polished - this really changes how the entire song sounds — and the bridge is full of pure desperation. It feels like something out of her diary, and I know the soft guitars and thoughtful lyrics will resonate with you too.
Tenroc by Cedric Jones Photography
THINKING BOUT ME by Matt Hansen
Another summer love track begging to be played at your next cookout, this one is full of heart and thoughtful lyrics that will hook you from the first few notes. I love the catchy chorus, and the full-bodied chorus that ebbs and flows between the verses. Thematically, it’s all about that feeling when you know someone likes you even if they won’t admit it (yet). Light guitar and a bouncy chord progression leads into the dynamic bridge, leaving listeners begging for more as the song comes to a close after just two-and-a-half minutes.
This pensive track feels like a CD from the 80s that slipped between the seat of your car and the cupholder. Light, ghastly backing vocals create an ambience you’ll have to hear for yourself, warning the listener about their imminent return to the suburbs. It’s emotional, and slightly creepy in the best way, and it really questions how the idea of the American dream has evolved with time. “I tried to warn ya / you’ll have it all but you’ll have nothin’ without me” is just a taste of the haunting lyrics, so enjoy it on a sunny evening when you want to be in a calm, reflective mood.
Another track from this positive artist is on the list this week, and I liked the way it’s got a worshipful vibe, put together with bright vocals and nice sonic dynamics. Also, is it just me or does this artist sound incredibly similar to Luke Hemmings from the band 5 Seconds of Summer? Test my theory and listen to it yourself. There’s so much to love about this song, and the light digital effects blended nicely with the honest lyrics are just the tip of the iceberg.
Nothing Feels Amazing by KING FALCON
This band has been on fire lately, with all these catchy hits popping up on my submission list — which is awesome because then you get to hear about them too. This tune is no exception, with bright well-articulated guitars, strong vocals, and a driving drum beat that will take you on a ride by the end of the tune. “I might be numb and you might think I’m crazy” is at the center of the theme, talking about the role mental health plays in the social scene. If this sounds even a little bit like you, I’d highly recommend checking out this song.
Barely Breathin’ by Francesa Fuentes
I really enjoyed the overall vibe and style of this one. It’s romantic, cozy, and it’s got this whimsical fairy vibe, all wrapped up in a jazz-inspired chord progression. Perfect for fans of Sabrina Carpenter, it’s got a sweet, slightly-sultry vibe with some vintage-inspired flair. Sonically, it reminds me of a bright, sunny day in a flower-covered meadow with a movie-worthy love interest. If this sounds like your style, then you’ll want to turn this one up loud while sipping fresh lemonade (out of a teacup for the aesthetics, of course).