Angelina’s Corner: Roundup
Words by Angelina Singer
Knock on Marble by James Malcolm Band
This is a classic country-crooner song, and while this genre might seem like a dime a dozen, this one has such a great chorus hook. It’s also got a delectable string section and a great story that pushes it through the noise. Light electric guitar fills create a rich ambience of musical texture as the speaker offers a tongue-in-cheek reflection on being lucky enough to love someone throughout all stages of life. If you’re looking for a song that will help you reflect on your own long-term relationship, this song is just the thing to bring you back to your own humble beginnings.
Chris de Sarandy
I absolutely loved the unexpected mix of this quirky title and meaning mashed up with the ethereal style of this minimalist song that packs a punch. The waltz beat provides the perfect canvas for the artist’s gorgeous vocal harmonies depicting the reminder that whatever “turkeys” you come across in your life, you can still keep your head up. A light string section provides some sonic depth and dimension in the bridge section before everything builds towards the momentous outro. Listen to this one every time you need a reason to keep going when life kicks you down.
Need Somebody by Chris de Sarandy
Raspy vocals create a raw mood of emotional intensity that reminded me of something Hozier might sing. The message is super positive, as the speaker promises the listener to call him anytime they need anything. It touches briefly on mental health struggles, and a desperate commitment to staying when everyone else threatens to leave. I loved the light orchestral touches in the background blended with the subtle ballad-rock guitar chords and keyboard notes. There’s so much to love about this song, so don’t hesitate to listen whenever you feel alone.
The Longest Goodbye by Mogipbob
This is a very pretty country song, featuring a string section and strong vocals. While I was disappointed to see that Groover had placed their new “AI music” badge on this one after I had chosen it (as I typically do not share music that is made with AI), I suppose this one slipped through my screening process this time. Regardless, it sounds nice and I liked the lyrics in it. I’m sadly not sure which parts of it are fully made by a human, but it’s pleasant to listen to so take that as you will.
I liked the funky radio-ready vibes of this song that’s got a ton of sass and snark baked right into its tone and lyrics. Bonus points for the surprising chord progressions that beautifully outline the pitfalls of a relationship that’s off-and-on the rocks despite the best efforts to bring things back to shore. Bright lead guitar articulations paint a gorgeous picture of what it’s like to live in uncertainty, with a certain level of brightness that things will eventually get better. Theatrical changes throughout make this song one that you’ll want to listen to over and over again to properly digest all the unique components of it.
I love that this song is written as a musical version of the well-known Bible verse. It’s got a great folk-tune energy to it, and I appreciate that it will help listeners better metabolize this important truth. There’s some quirky keyboard notes floating throughout, but they’re nicely balanced out by the even-keeled vocals and rhythm guitar. Listen to this one for an instant mood boost if you’re feeling anxious or need a reminder that faith over fear always wins.
This alt-rock anthem is all about not giving up when life gets hard. With sonic elements that reminded me a bit of early Paramore or even Heart, there’s a lot to love about this one. I really liked the gritty details throughout, and the message of how it can take time to find yourself during seasons of change and uncertainty. Her vocals are really strong, and I liked the subtle guitar riffs that float throughout, keeping the song held together and cohesive. If you’ve been feeling frustrated for a while, this song will inspire you to be brave and keep pushing towards your goals when you’d rather throw in the towel.