Angelina’s Corner: Roundup
Words by Angelina Singer
This is an instantly-intriguing alternative rock song that will pique your interest and grab your attention from the get-go. With somatic imagery like “floating away” and other details that create a delectable liminal space experience for the listener, this song has something for everyone. Ideal for when you need to unwind but your brain still feels busy, the gritty vocals will meet you where you’re at while you reflect on themes like coming-of-age and managing the fear of missing out on what’s ahead.
Dune Blue
This song beautifully blends surf rock and punk into a yummy new brew that will transport you to somewhere with palm trees. It openly calls out the problems with corporate America and the way the music industry often isn’t kind to the very people who create content to keep it running. If you or anyone you know has felt that struggle before (or even just wants a reason to have a momentary escape to the tropics), this song will resonate. I really liked the grit and honesty throughout, and the unapologetic way that the lyrics call out the things most of us might be afraid to say out loud.
This ethereal track is equally thought-provoking and calm. With light vocal articulations that blend seamlessly with the decadent vocal delivery, this will have you chilled-out and wistful in no time. I really liked the way the instruments are slightly surprising in this one, with subtle jazzy chord changes that are just slightly different than more typical progressions that you might hear on the radio. It feels a lot like dawn or dusk — one of those quiet times when the sky is bursting in color and the world is quieter. Listen to this one on your next hiking trip, or even just when you need to find some peace and quiet in your own backyard.
One More Time by StopGap Solution
Fans of Nickelback or Thirty Seconds to Mars will love this one. It’s gritty, rock ‘n’ roll, and features great sonic dynamics that will take you on a journey. I loved the lead guitar work and the gorgeous harmonies throughout that make this one feel big enough for a stadium show. It’s all about struggling to say goodbye to someone you care about, and wishing you had more time with them. This is ideal for anyone who’s suffering from a broken heart, or anyone that’s craving a bit of that lovesick angst despite being in a healthy and thriving relationship.
This is the bubble-gum pop sultry track of this week’s roundup, as there’s some clever innuendos that hint at just a little more than a daydream. The bright instrumentation and the strong vocals really caught my attention here. I loved the overall sound and while I don’t typically promote music that’s slightly more adult thematically, I felt this one was fun and subtle enough to share with this audience. This one will fit perfectly with music by Olivia Rodrigo or Sabrina Carpenter if that’s your jam, so add this one to your summer playlist now to help the ice thaw.
This beautiful song has a very mellow rock-ballad style to it, and tells the story of a childhood crush that never really went away. The lyrics are incredibly deep and thought-provoking, with a gorgeous thematic narrative that will leave listeners feeling wistful and emotionally affected. “People also just slip away like stars fading from the sky / There is no rhyme or reason so no use in asking why” are only some of the thoughtful lyrics, and it reminded me a lot of the band Goo Goo Dolls. Listen to this one anytime you feel the need to work through your past or reach out to someone that you never truly forgot about.
Beautiful Lie by Martin and James
This one reminded me of something the Beatles might have written, in both its simplicity and tranquility. Bright acoustic guitar chords mingle with light piano notes that build into a beautiful rhythm and melody section. It also made me think of early Taylor Swift music, with the relaxed pop vibes that dip slightly into the country genre as well. I also really liked the orchestral string section. No matter where this song finds you, you’ll be relaxed and ready for your next adventure after you listen to it.