Angelina’s Corner: Roundup
Words by Angelina Singer
Don’t Forget To Leave The Light On by Westwell
For a beautiful folk track about coming home after an adventure, this song is just the thing. I love the sonic textures of the strong section in this song, which I feel like isn’t as common in the country or folk genres. It also builds up into a beautiful instrumental section that gives the listener plenty of space to reflect on their home and what makes it so special to them. Give your loved ones a big hug - because every minute with them is so special and this song will remind you of all this and more.
Chris Batten & The Woods
Run Into the Arrows by Shannon Hudson
This song has such a creative metaphor in it, comparing the hardships of life to a figurative onslaught of arrows. It touches on the ideal of bravery but also the softness and humility it takes to acknowledge your own limitations. This song also features another stellar string section that beautifully showcases the fragility of the human spirit, but also the strength that comes with facing your problems head-on even if you’re scared. It’s a great song to listen to if you need some encouragement and motivation to get through the hard times.
Need You Around by Chris Batten & The Woods
This atmospheric track brings you right into the wilderness - or at least, the wilderness of a complicated relationship. My favorite things about this song include the nuanced and layered dynamics, as well as the way all the textures of this song grow and swell together. There’s also the comforting theme of needing someone and being brave enough to admit that, even in the shadow of heartache. It’s a great song to give you some perspective about life and the people that matter to you most — with the biggest lesson being not to sweat the small stuff.
The River (Gotta Be) by Guess Method
I appreciate the mix of jazz and harmonic pop elements in this song, even lending itself to an almost Motown-type feel. The vocalist reminds me of Jason Mraz, and I love how the syncopated beats and bubbly atmosphere add so much sonic intrigue to this one. As smooth and sultry as a lava lamp, this tune will bathe you in soft touches and bright moments that will part the clouds on even the cloudiest day. It’s a great reminder about the importance of never being afraid to dream about your crush, no matter how far away they might be.
Pedal steel guitar and subtle chord arpeggiations set the scene for this ambient track about a man regretting choices he made in his life. The way it’s mixed feels like a dreamlike state, transporting the listener into his mindset as he copes with life and all it brings. And I love the way he derives the title from meeting the right person that makes his fears “go up in smoke”. That’s so romantic and comforting, like a warm blanket by the fire on a cold winter’s night. Listen to this song if you’re in the middle of figuring yourself out, and count yourself thankful if you’ve met someone who makes that process even just a bit easier.