Angelina’s Corner: Roundup
Words by Angelina Singer
This song is a gem in the intersection between angsty pop punk music and bluegrass folk tunes. Don’t believe me? You’ll have to listen to that grinding drumbeat mixed with a stringed instrument of some kind that sounds suspiciously like a banjo. “Who was I to say I miss you / When I did not know what missing meant” are the insightful lyrics that happen right before a pick slide on a distorted guitar worthy of any artist on Warped Tour. I don’t even know how to properly describe this style - it’s unique without being too niche, and a really wonderful look at heartache and the motivation to detach from the pain even when you know the only way out is to march through it.
Tyler Herwig
Congratulations by Zach Bellas
Continuing on with the tasteful angst, this tune is a delightful mix of surf rock and pop punk music. Thematically, it’s a snarky reflection on another person not caring about you. I applaud the way the vocalist is taking the power back by speaking up and not letting the other person’s antics get to them. Sonically, it’s a fast drum beat layered with melodic guitar licks that are cognizant of the beach, with an added flair for the dramatic without being too cheesy. If you’ve been on the hunt for a new self-actualization anthem, this one might just be the ticket. Bonus points for a very edgy, swampy guitar solo in the bridge that transports the listener to another dimension compared to the rest of the tune.
This song is so calming, and made me think of the band Fleetwood Mac in its tone and overall peaceful ambience. I really liked the romantic element, and the way the speaker poetically celebrates the luxury of returning home to the person they love the most. Light vocal harmonies echo the sweet sentiments throughout, and I also appreciate the message of soaking in the special moments of even monotonous daily life. This song is an instant mood booster when you’re craving something sweet without the added calories.
Another light and ethereal song is up next, with a delightfully surprising foray into a heavier rock style after the first verse. Eventually, it reminded me of songs by Florence and the Machine or Birdy with a good dose of angst mixed with an undercurrent of demure humility. There’s also the component of sultry vibes underneath it that creates a delectable tension between both halves of the vocalist’s style. The message is about finding yourself again after a season of struggles and growth. Enjoy this anytime you need to be reminded that growth isn’t linear, and life is worth celebrating at every phase.
Like That Kiss by Tyler Herwig
While this might seem just like any other country song, there’s some really clever storytelling in this one that sets it apart. I also really liked the dynamics and growth behind music and production style, which lands it somewhere in between Michael Bublé and Keith Urban. A delicate lead guitar floats in between the vocalist reflecting on a kiss that stuck with them over the course of years spent with their lover. It’s sweet, romantic, and a great song to daydream to if you find yourself thinking about someone special while listening.