Angelina’s Corner: Roundup
Words by Angelina Singer
Names on a Tree by In a Perfect Sky
This pop-rock song with Midwest-emo influences is perfect for a late-summer drive with the music up and the windows down. Ideal for fans of bands Citizen and American Football, this song tells the story of what it’s like to have your heart broken will still trying to find your rhythm again. Bright vocal melodies punctuate the storyline to make it feel sonically happy while it’s still thematically sad — a typical trope of the pop-punk and emo genres. I also really liked the symbolism of carving names on a tree and how that expecation of longevity changes with the outcome of the relationship. For an energy-packed hug, this song will be just what you need in your healing process.
This song bridges the gap between folk and country, with an added whimsical flair with lots of beautiful vocal harmonies and storytelling. To transport yourself somewhere more peaceful, listen to this song on repeat. The lyrics are all about staying present and remembering to be thankful for your blessings, no matter where life takes you. The song itself sounds like sunshine and springtime, even if the message would be perfect for the fall season of Thanksgiving. Listen to this track for an instant mood boost that will inspire you to reflect on what makes your life amazing.
Kirsten Izer
This one is such a testament to the classic rock genre, with an added flair of country thrown in there for good measure. With powerhouse vocals and a powerful lead guitar blazing the way for other artists, this song is so much fun to listen to for instant energy that will get you through your day. I also loved all the sonic textures and the urgency of the ambience that reminds listeners that it’s important to surround yourself with good people that match your journey and won’t leave you with a bad taste in your mouth. There’s also the added component of girl power and the way that everyone’s story matters, even if you think your contribution to the world is relatively small. These points are driven home by the face-melting guitar solo at the end that leaves the listener on a hopeful — yet foreboding — tone.
The Perfect Hire / The Liar by Kirsten Izer
While I can’t condone the behavior, this song about an office relationship is really poignant and powerful. The vocal performance is raw and honest, with an added percussive acoustic guitar and some ethereal vocal harmonies. The theme is all about feeling tossed aside and overall not good enough for the object of your affection. Little did the speaker of this song realize, is that there was nothing wrong with her and everything wrong with the person she was bending her back to be accepted by. I really appreciate the cleverness of comparing winning someone’s affections with being the perfect hire and the blistering lyrics (“you seem really old because you are”). The ending is abrupt and haunting, just like the rest of the song.
This pop-country gem stood out from the first notes and only glittered more when I realized how genius the metaphor of comparing a less-than-ideal relationship with an automobile repair is. I loved the subtle guitar licks throughout mixed with her smooth-as-butter vocals and sultry lilt showing off her southern charm in its full regalia. This one is totally radio-ready with a great hook, smooth vocal tone, and just enough snark to keep listeners coming back for more. I only wish this song was even longer because somehow 2 minutes and thirty-four seconds doesn’t seem nearly long enough. Enjoy it often with a steaming cup of tea for an instant confidence boost.